Scholarship of teaching and learning in the context of a University of Technology : a case of the central university of technology, Free State

Abstract

This article describes the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) project at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) to improve teaching and learning. Its focus is the genesis of the project, perceptions and perspectives of staff on SoTL, challenges facing SoTL, and the perceived significance and impact of the project. It is argued that SoTL has the potential of advancing teaching and learning generally and within one's disciplinary home. Thus, engagement in SoTL does not undermine one's disciplinary work, but rather enhances reflective practice and sharing practices with peers nationally and internationally. Quantitative data were collected by means of a questionnaire. The chi-squared test was applied and a p-value calculated for quantitative data of the survey. Only one area indicated significant frequency differences at the level of alpha (0.05). The qualitative data was elicited from written accounts by the participants and analysed in terms of emerging themes and issues. The article concludes that: engaging in SoTL encompasses scholarly teaching and meaningful learning; enhances scholars' contributions to their disciplines; involves a scholarly work not separated from everyday classroom practices; and that the teaching continuum, and perceived involvement, are critical aspects of improving one's practice at CUT and in specific disciplines.