Reflecting on the ESLTIS24 Conference: Developing Educator Identities and Building Academic Communities
In a beautiful town surrounded by lush green countryside, golf courses, and tranquil seas, I recently spent a couple of days that left me both intellectually enriched and personally inspired.
Hosted by St. Andrews University, the 7th edition of the Enhancing Student Learning Through Innovative Scholarship (ESLTIS) took place on the 8th and 9th of July 2024.
The event was a unique opportunity to engage with fellow educators who are deeply passionate about the future of teaching and learning.
Supported by the University of Manchester’s “Humanities Conference and Travel Fund”, I was able to take part in conversations that enhanced my academic practices and reflect on challenges that educators face in the current higher education landscape.
The discussions were focused on some of the most pressing issues facing higher education today, with a strong emphasis on the future of higher education, the evolving identity of educators, and the importance of creating supportive academic communities.
The future of Higher Education, amidst AI, Sustainability and Assessments
The conference explored several vital themes shaping the future of higher education. A central focus was dedicated to student partnerships, emphasising student involvement in curriculum design, teaching methods, and feedback processes to enhance learning experiences. The discussion on innovative assessment methods underscored the importance of adaptable, technology-driven practices that foster continuous dialogue between students and educators. Sustainability and socially responsible education were also key themes, with reflection on the best ways to integrate these principles into curricula to prepare students for global challenges. Additionally, the future of teaching and learning was examined, highlighting the need to address educational disparities, promote inclusivity, and enhance student engagement through interdisciplinary projects and advanced technology.
Reflecting on Educator Identity in Higher Education
One of the central themes of the day was the complex and evolving identity of educators in the modern academic world. With the rapid changes taking place in higher education, many educators find themselves navigating a shifting landscape, often struggling to define their roles and responsibilities. The discussions encouraged participants to reflect on how academic identities are shaped by institutional structures, social expectations, and personal experiences. The exploration of this theme was particularly resonant for those of us who have been reflecting on academic professional identities and purpose. We examined how educators can find their place within this ever-changing environment, balancing the demands of teaching, research, and service. The sessions offered valuable insights into the importance of recognizing the social and personal dimensions of academic life and how they intersect with professional development.
Building Communities to Support Learning and Teaching
Another key theme of the day was the importance of building strong, supportive communities within academia. In an interactive session, participants discussed how fostering a sense of community can enhance both learning and teaching practices. This theme struck a chord with many of us, as it highlighted the often-overlooked role that collaboration and shared interests play in creating more inclusive and effective educational environments. We explored the various barriers that can hinder community-building, including institutional structures, preconceived notions, and traditional hierarchies. The session was a refreshing reminder of the power of open dialogue and the need to break down these barriers to create more meaningful connections among educators, students, and staff. The discussions offered practical strategies for overcoming these challenges, emphasising the importance of fostering environments where collaboration and mutual support can thrive.
Two days of Connection and Engagement
Beyond the content of the sessions, what truly stood out was the atmosphere. The day was infused with a sense of friendliness, collaboration, and, most importantly, fun. These themes were ever-present, from the informal chats over coffee to the spirited discussions during workshops. The warmth and openness of the hosts and my fellow attendees made the event a joy to participate in.
This friendly and inclusive environment reached its peak in the evening with a delightful dinner, followed by a traditional ceilidh dance where the attendees were invited to participate. I must admit, my attempts at the dance were less than stellar, and my moves were more enthusiastic than graceful—but the joy of participating far outweighed any awkwardness. St Andrews University’s students, brimming with energy, led us through the steps with patience and humour while dodging the missteps of our improvised dances. Their ability to turn even the most clumsy and chaotic attempts into a moment of shared laughter made the evening one to remember!
Key Takeaways
Reflecting on the two days, the discussions around the future of HE, educator identity and community-building have left a lasting impression. In a rapidly evolving academic world, these themes are more important than ever. Understanding our roles as educators, addressing the challenges of our roles, embracing the complexities of our professional identities, and working collaboratively to build supportive communities are essential steps toward creating a more inclusive and effective higher education system.
The event reinforced the idea that academic success is not just about individual achievements but about working together to foster environments where everyone can thrive. As I left the conference, I felt not only more connected to my colleagues but also more inspired to continue exploring these vital topics in my own teaching and research practices.
I am now looking forward to the next destination, to further develop my practices and connect with brilliant minds! Hopefully, I will see you there!

Dr Pietro Paolo Frigenti, Alliance Manchester Business School
Connect with Pietro on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pietro-paolo-frigenti/
Ref: 084
0 Comments