Angela Newton

Profile

My role as a Learning Advisor involves working with the Schools of Law and Sociology and Social Policy to embed academic literacies in the curriculum to support student learning. I contribute towards, and lead in-curriculum teaching, and work alongside academic colleagues to create rich and rewarding learning experiences that build confidence and allow students to learn actively.   

With a background in academic librarianship, I have a deep appreciation for the value of texts and critical thinking, as well as the importance of information literacy to successful study. Working with students in 1-2-1, lecture and workshop settings, I aim to engage students in activities that harness their ideas and practical strategies that they can implement in their studies.

Projects: 

In 2023 I was awarded a one-year LITE Fellowship, Developing object-based learning at Leeds. This project brought together many of my professional interests, underpinned by critical thinking, active and experiential learning. Discussions about object-based learning with the School of Sociology and Social Policy led to the development of an innovative unit forming part of the MSc in Disability Studies, Rights and Inclusion and an undergraduate module, the Sociology of Objects, which marries disciplinary theory and thought with materiality. Further work with the school will consider how object-based learning can play a part in student learning within the discipline.  

In 2015, I co-wrote two popular FutureLearn MOOCs: 

Learning online: Managing your identity: https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/online-identity  

Learning online: Searching and researching (now retired from the platform).  

2015 saw the launch of the Flying Start resource, aimed at prospective and incoming new undergraduate students to the University of Leeds. I wrote and managed this project, working closely with a Learning Technologist.   

Flying Start continues to be a key part of undergraduate transition at the University and attracts excellent student feedback: “I think this is a wonderful tool to help ease the minds of anyone nervous about starting university. Already it is clear that Leeds really do care about their students and want to make sure that they receive the best support possible.” 

Flying Start was 'highly commended' at the 2016 MEDEA Awards.

Earlier projects: 

RoaDMaP 2012  

I was a committee member for the work package 7 working group, focusing on research data management training. 

JISC i-skills project 2006: I was part of a funded project researching and creating Information and digital literacy models. 

Roberts funded research: Developing PhD training at Leeds University Library 2005: I was project officer for this 18-month funded project to research, develop, deliver and evaluate new training materials for PhD students at the University of Leeds. 

Research interests

Having recently completed a LITE project in object-based learning, I continue to develop my knowledge and expertise in this area and am currently organising a one-day symposium for researchers and practitioners in 2025, with the aim of connecting a currently disparate community and creating a national network. 

Qualifications

• Masters in Library and Information Management (2000)
• BA English Literature (1997)

Professional memberships

• FHEA (2021)

Student education

I find working with students to be continually inspiring and fascinating and my enjoyment of teaching and designing learning, means that I regard sotl as an integral part of my role.  My professional interests have led me to regularly publish, speak at conferences and collaborate with a range of individuals in many roles and with a variety of expertise.  

As a reflective practitioner, I seek opportunities to continuously improve the learning experience for our students and look for ways to democratise the classroom so that everyone present feels able to contribute.  My understanding of active listening also supports my teaching and 1-2-1 practice in enabling student voices to be heard.