Survey of Distinguished Teacher Award Schemes in Higher Education

This article presents the results of an investigation into teacher award schemes undertaken for University College London in December 1997, prior to the introduction of such a scheme by the College. It was not intended to be an exhaustive survey, but designed rather to explore the issues, benefits and problems associated with the various types of award scheme. Information was obtained on a wide range of activities, both in the UK and overseas, and four types of award scheme were identified: traditional award schemes (i.e. prizes); teaching fellowship schemes; educational development grant schemes; and promotion/bonus schemes. The article describes the advantages and limitations of each model, including a summary of their purposes, processes and assessment criteria, presented as a guide to others who may be contemplating a scheme for their own institution.