Mrs Rosemary Shepherd
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Job title: Senior Lecturer
Email: R.Shepherd@derby.ac.uk
Phone No: 01332 592296
Room: E109a
Recent publications
I co-authored a chapter in Exploring Education Studies (2011) edited by Vivienne Walkup (Teaching, Learning and the National Curriculum). My authoring considered the changing role of the teacher in society and the impact of the National Curriculum on the teacher and learner. I am currently working on a Special Educational Needs and Disability chapter aimed at workers in the Children's and Young People's sector.
Experience in Industry
I have worked in a supportive role in compulsory education (Primary and Secondary) and provided training in a voluntary organisation for the past 36 years
Current Activities / Links with Industry
I have links with STEPS (Specialist Teaching and Psychology Service) Derby City Council, Children's and Young People's Services
The Trust Centre at Alderwasley School in Derbyshire
NAS (National Autistic Society)
Faculty: Education, Health and Sciences
School: School of Education
Subject Area: Education Studies
- Senior Lecturer in Education Studies
- Progression Leader for stage two BA (Hons) Educations Studies
- SEND Pathway Leader BA (Hons) Education Studies with Special Educational Needs and Disability
- Maths with Education Subject Co-ordinator
Teaching responsibilities
As a Senior Lecturer in Education Studies I have responsibility for leading: Psychology and Education: Understanding Teachng and Learning at level four and Special Educational Needs and Disability and the Inclusion Debate and Managing Special Educational Needs and Disability at level six.
Professional interests
I have a broad background in Special Educational Needs, Educational Psychology, Literacy and Childcare I graduated with a BA Education from the University of Derby. I have worked for the University of Derby since 2004 working as a senior lecturer on the BA (Hons) Education Studies. I have also trained leaders and teachers in managing SEN and provided teacher training in a voluntary organisation spanning the Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire region. I am a fellow of the Higher Education Academy and follow through with research into Excellence in Teaching and Inclusion in higher education.
My current and main role is Progression Leader to the stage two students where emphasis is placed upon motivation and success. I am the Education co-ordinator on the Maths with Education programme across all three stages of the BA (Hons) Mathematics programme. I am also the SEND pathway Leader to our new SEND pathway on the BA (Hons) Education Studies degree.
Research interests
Much of my research has focussed on identifying and managing the Special Educational Needs of students both in compulsory schooling and higher education with an emphasis on Asperger's Syndrome (AS). My Masters Degree in Education explored the notion of structured teaching approaches (including structure, visuals and explaining techniques) used with students with AS. The study identified ways that these teaching pproaches could benefit all students. The findings have provided a platform to explore at Doctorate level (EdD second year), the neurological differences and experiences of students with AS in higher education and the barriers to learning and success in comparison to neuro-typical students. My research has also explored the role of the teacher in compulsory education and the difficulties encountered in managing the inclusion of young people with SEN in the classroom, such as ASDs, Dyslexia and Epilepsy. A further research interest has explored the notion of student illiteracy in higher education and ways to ensure students are prepared and skilled for the workplace.
Membership of professional bodies and advisory committees
Fellow of the Higher Education Association
Recent Conferences
A poster presentation on the benefits of using structured teaching approaches, normally adopted to enhance the learning of students with Asperger's Syndrome, to benefit the whole class. This was presented at the Communication: The Key to Success conference at Edgehill University in June 2012.
Additional Interests and Activities
I am very active in a voluntary organisation that involves the training, teaching and counselling to adults, young people and children. This involves public speaking, charitable work, motivating and encouraging self reliance.
Undergraduate qualifications
- BA (Hons) Education, , University of Derby
Postgraduate qualifications
- MA Education Special Educational Needs, , University of Derby
- Post Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching, University of Derby
Research qualifications
- EdD candidate year 2, University of Derby

