Academic Affairs-Workshop on Fostering Creativity and Innovation in Teaching and Curriculum Delivery

The Office of the Deputy of the Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs (DAVC-AA) of UTAS-Muscat, recently organized a workshop focused on "Fostering Creativity and Innovation in Teaching and Curriculum Delivery." The event took place on April 4, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Old Multi-Purpose Hall of the university.

Dr. Ahmed Al-Mamari, the Assistant Vice-Chancellor of UTAS-Muscat, welcomed the audience highlighting the importance of the workshop to promote creativity and innovation in classroom instruction and curriculum delivery.

The workshop brought together branch council members, heads of sections, program coordinators, program leaders, and academic staff to collaborate and explore innovative teaching practices. Participants had the opportunity to showcase their experiences and engage with a keynote speaker, Dr. Said Sulaiman Al-Riyami, Head of the IT Department

During the workshop, representatives from various academic departments shared best practices in fostering creativity and innovation. Topics ranged from utilizing AI-powered mind map programs to implementing interactive techniques like flipped classrooms and Next Gen Teaching strategies. The presentations highlighted the importance of adapting the curriculum to diverse learning styles, utilizing technology for enhanced learning experiences, and creating inclusive and accessible learning environments. Additionally, educators discussed the significance of building connections with students, promoting learner autonomy, and incorporating differentiated instruction to cater to individual learning styles and readiness levels.

The set of brilliant and impressive presenters inspired the audience. The presenters were Dr. Karima Al Balushi and Ms. Majida Al-Ismaily of the Applied Science Department, Ms. Juhaina Al-Aisari of the Business Studies Department, Mr. Alqasim Mohammed Yousuf of the Engineering Department, Dr. Qasim Al-Ajmi of the IT Department, Ms. Isra Salim Talib Al-Ajmi, Hanaa Al-Khayari, Omniyah Khamis Mussaikhan, Ruqaya Al-Salhi, and Stephanie Bernard of the Preparatory Studies Centre.

The workshop identified several areas for improvement in curriculum delivery, including selecting technologies based on the course and student level, implementing policies for the ethical use of digital tools like AI, encouraging the use of digital tools in teaching, assessment, and classroom management, aligning tools with learning outcomes, and providing staff training on digital tools and technologies.   

At the end of the workshop, the staff shared their thoughts on innovative teaching, and Dr. Khalid Salim Al-Abri, the Deputy of the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, thanked all participants and presenters for their valuable input and contributions.