Alex Sinclair
My research: A self-study action research project on
global environmental issues and eco-literacy in initial teacher
education
Programme: PhD Education
Study mode – part
time
Having been a classroom-practitioner for
twelve years I made the move to Higher Education four years ago. I
am currently a senior lecturer at St Mary’s University College, a
small initial teacher education institution just outside of
Twickenham. It is here that I started and completed my Masters
studies undertaking a self-study action research enquiry focussing
on whether I could help develop my trainees’ critical reflection.
My doctoral thesis has been borne out of this work and is
researching the type of relationships I may develop that would help
an understanding of ecoliteracy. Over the last few years I have
grown increasingly worried about local and global ecological issues
and hope that, through my teaching, I can raise awareness among the
trainees I work with and in turn influence their future practices
with children. Work at St Mary’s has involved producing an
allotment with the students and assisting with preparations for the
arrival of two colonies of bees.
Why did you choose this programme at
this University?
Having worked with my supervisor at Masters level, I knew I was
assured of the necessary support to help complete my doctoral
studies
How long have you been studying at
YSJ?
I will be attending my one-year review in June this summer
How did you find combining your ‘work
& home’ life with your studies?
It is difficult! ‘Juggling’ a full-time
job, a family, with a part-time PhD is not easy.