Tackling the conflicting demands and communicating the value of SoTL work

Caterina Presi (Leeds University Business School)

Project overview

My fellowship has three main aims. Firstly, it aims to identify the conflicting demands that SoTL researchers have to manage in order to do their work. Secondly, to identify strategies to tackle these conflicting demands. Thirdly, I am interested in developing ways to talk emphatically about SoTL with students.

The research approach

I have always had a passion for research and many ideas to do research on, however, delivering on those ideas within the constraints of my professional responsibilities has often been challenging. I know that others face similar difficulties, which is why I’m committed to making Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) work more productive and empowering people to find their ways to engage with it. Additionally, I believe that it is essential to involve students in our research efforts. For this we need a more explicit, empathy-driven language when discussing SoTL with students. This can foster better conversations and strengthen their awareness and engagement with SoTL-related initiatives.

I will be conducting in-depth interviews, facilitating workshops with creative activities, collaborating with students in designing a communication plan. My approach is qualitative and grounded on compassionate research principles.

If you would like to find out more about the project contact Caterina Presi

Connect with Caterina on LinkedIn

Each fellowship has a project sponsor that helps the fellows achieve impact across the institution. The sponsor for this fellowship is Gabriel Cavalli/Robert Averies.

Project start date: September 2025