Dan Pullinger

How have you have supported others to develop their practice?

My approach to leadership in student education involves recognising shared goals across the institution, seeking opportunities for collaboration, and communicating effectively and openly with key stakeholders.

As Head of Learning Development (Digital & Co-Curricular), I have responsibility for the strategic direction of the Learning Development Team, which includes overseeing the work and professional development of 18 learning advisors and digital learning advisors. My personal career journey from teacher-librarian to learning developer, and ultimately into a strategic student education leadership role, has helped me to recognize the vital role of librarians and learning developers as student education practitioners. However, I also understand the importance of helping colleagues to develop the appropriate levels of confidence and experience to succeed in this role. Developing the professional profile of my team is also important in helping academic colleagues recognise the contribution we can make as their partners in student education.

I helped to position the University's Capabilities Framework as a key component of the Curriculum Redefined initiative; this framework enables all Leeds educators to be actively supported in including the development of students’ academic, digital and professional literacies when designing and delivering their programmes.

I have mentored numerous colleagues in undertaking the PGCAP qualification at Leeds, and positively influence others’ professional practice through presenting papers on my student education research and activity at national conferences. I am an active contributor to the wider library and learning development professional communities. Having benefited greatly from the support and advice of colleagues, internal and external, in return I am committed to sharing my experience and expertise as a practitioner and service lead with others.

Since June 2013, I have been a member of the Information Literacy Group (ILG) committee. ILG is a special interest group of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, the key purpose of which is to encourage debate and the exchange of knowledge in all aspects of information literacy.

What are your current student education interests/new developments?

• Academic literacies development;
• digital literacies / capabilities development;
• information literacy;
• welcome, induction and transition;
• co-curricular opportunities for students