Teaching Staff of the Year in the Faculty of Science and Technology is Meelis Käärik, Associate Professor in Probability Theory (“Actuarial and Financial Engineering”, Master's programme).
According to Helo Liis Soodla, Vice-Chairman of the University of Tartu Student Union, students commend teachers for teaching to think purposefully, manage their actions and help to create a space for personal development. The integration of theory and practice, collaborative dialogue and a learning environment that supports equal opportunities are also commended. "All the nominees of the year encourage students with their dedication and hard work, they also notice and offer help, but they do not let students stay in the comfort zone, but encourage them to strive further," she added.
The Teaching Staff of the Year Award recognizes one teacher in each field who has excelled in teaching in the previous academic year. The Teaching Staff of the Year is chosen by the students, based on the good teaching practice of the University of Tartu.
Programme Director of the Year in the Faculty of Science and Technology is Indrek Zolk, Lecturer in Mathematical Analysis (“Mathematics”, Bachelor's programme).
The Dean's proposal highlights the systematic development of online learning capabilities, the development of a mathematics curriculum to increase student’s variety of choices, the organization of mathematics competitions and special assignments that offer students more varied challenges, and the development of internship programs for students.
The Program Director of the Year award recognizes program directors who continuously and systematically develop their curriculum, based on the university's quality requirements. They involve employers, students, teachers, and alumni in the development of the curriculum and are successful in their promoting activities.
Congratulations to Meelis and Indrek! Thank you for the great work!