March 6, 2025
Silja Bára, writes
It is important for the future that universities produce well-educated people who can tackle the major challenges that are currently looming. These include declining biodiversity, climate change, increasing polarization, and the backlash against gender equality. In order for ambitious learning and teaching to take place, it is necessary to ensure that the working conditions of both students and staff are as good as possible.
In my work at the University of Iceland, I have emphasized teaching development and action research alongside teaching. I am a member of the Academy of Teaching of Public Universities and have been recognized for my commendable contribution to teaching. This emphasis stems from my sincere interest in promoting learning and teaching. By publishing the results of action research and actively participating in the Academy of Teaching, I participate in communicating modern teaching methods to my colleagues.
Among the things I have adopted is so-called flipped teaching, where lectures are made available electronically ahead of time. They are then useful for students to prepare and review, while in the classroom they can delve deeper into more complex concepts or work on projects that use concepts and knowledge they have been studying. It is in the interests of students that the latest knowledge is being used in teaching, not only in the subject they are studying, but also in the pedagogy that is being applied. It is also necessary to ensure that students are given a broad foundation to work with the projects that will face them when they graduate, for example by taking courses outside their field that are related to societal challenges or innovation.
Meeting students where they are has been a common theme throughout my time as a teacher. It is one of the things I will emphasize as rector, for example through increased support for students and teachers and an increased emphasis on meeting contemporary demands for flexibility in learning.
But in order for students to dedicate themselves to their studies, their circumstances need to be changed. Students cannot be expected to survive on student loans that are below the minimum subsistence level. This requires them to work far beyond what can be considered normal alongside their studies and reduces their dedication, which in turn reduces the quality of the learning environment. Full-time study is full-time work, and we who are responsible for that workplace, in this case the University of Iceland, must ensure that the working conditions of students are always the best possible. Therefore, as Rector, I will support students in their struggle to improve the quality of the learning and working environment for everyone who studies and works at the University of Iceland.
