Empowering Educators through SoTL: Insights and Innovations from Real-Time Audience Engagement

This is an invited article based on a HERDSA keynote address, which was presented at the 2024 conference held in Adelaide, 8-11 July. The data set underpinning this article has been published separately in this issue of the ASRHE journal (Schönwetter, 2025; https://doi.org/10.59197/asrhe.v6i1.13515). Abstract The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) is a conceptualisation of the teaching role in higher education that can transform academic understanding and practices by incorporating research as integral to teaching - an evidence-based and theoretically informed approach to teaching. Moreover, SoTL involves the systematic study of teaching and learning processes with a singular goal: improving educational practices and, most importantly, enhancing student outcomes. It is a form of research that holds transformative power, not only in how we teach but in how we elevate student learning to its fullest potential. This study explored the perceptions of academics related to SoTL and what supports would empower uptake and advocacy of SoTL. This was accomplished by engaging HERDSA keynote attendees through real-time audience polling. Guided by a participatory action research (PAR) approach, data were gathered in an online format (Mentimeter) from 263 participants during the keynote, responding to 10 questions related to SoTL, institutional challenges, and future action. This study highlights key areas where educators seek clarity and offers insights on how HERDSA can support its membership by addressing SoTL barriers, enhancing collaborative networks, and fostering continuous professional development. The implications of these findings extend to HERDSA’s potential role in shaping the future of SoTL practices and empowering its members to advocate for SoTL within their institutions.