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Kirsten Bolinger
Public relations editorial assistant

Another Avondale College lecturer has received a $10,000 citation from the Australian Learning and Teaching Council in recognition of their contribution to student learning.

Dr Daniel Reynaud's citation is for "enthusiastic and creative teaching, especially evidenced through the innovative use of wargaming scenarios, that have inspired students to a better understanding of history."

"I put the students in the position of commanders who can use only the information available at the time," says Daniel, a senior lecturer in history in the Faculty of Arts. "They get a much better understanding of why the commanders did what they did, particularly those in World War I whom we perceive as being poor leaders. Invariably, the students fail. Then I give them more information and they fail again. I'm replicating the process by which the generals discovered what they needed to know to succeed. It works much better than me saying it in a lecture, and it's more fun."

Daniel received his citation during a ceremony at the New South Wales Art Gallery in Sydney yesterday (August 11). He is one of 206 recipients, each receiving $10,000 for making a significant contribution to the quality of student learning in a specific area of responsibility over a sustained period, whether they serve as academic staff, general staff, sessional staff or institutional associates. They must receive wide recognition within their institution for their achievements and receive strong institutional endorsement.

The vice-president (learning and teaching) at Avondale, Dr Philip Brown, says the citation is reward for Daniel's "diverse contribution to the quality of student learning at Avondale since he began teaching here in 1992." It is also a significant achievement, he adds, noting how Avondale is one of only two higher education providers apart from the universities selected for a citation.

Professor Richard Johnstone, the council's executive director, says the quality and quantity of applications received "represent the incredible effort made by university staff Australia-wide to contribute to a positive learning experience for every student."

Dr Darren Morton, a senior lecturer in health and exercise science in the Faculty of Education, received a similar citation from the council this past year, becoming the first Avondale staff member to do so.

Caption: Dr Daniel Reynaud earned his citation for innovatively using wargaming scenarios to teach history.
Credit: Aaron Bellette