Leading Programs

Program and plan convenors play a critical role in shaping the quality, coherence and experience of UQ programs. As curriculum, assessment, AI and student expectations continue to evolve, these roles are becoming increasingly important sites of academic leadership, influence and change.

This dedicated Ready to Teach Week session invites UQ program and plan convenors to step back from the operational demands of the role and reflect on their agency, leadership and collective impact.

The morning will open with a facilitated conversation featuring Professor Robin Shields, and Professor Tyler Okimoto, exploring how convenors can lead effectively in complex academic environments, build alignment across teaching teams, and exercise influence in roles that often carry significant responsibility without always having formal authority.

The session will also create space for convenors to connect with one another over morning tea, share experiences, and build relationships across programs, schools and faculties.

Following the opening conversation, participants will take part in a practical activity focused on what convenors can do individually and collectively, what support they need from ITaLI, faculties, schools and central teams, and what changes would better enable effective program and plan leadership across UQ.

This session is designed for program and plan convenors who want to:

• better understand and articulate the leadership dimensions of their role
• connect with colleagues navigating similar challenges
• contribute to shaping how UQ supports convenor roles
• explore practical ways to influence curriculum coherence, assessment quality and student experience.

Join us for a candid, practical and energising conversation about the future of program and plan leadership at UQ.