Innovating the future of education together: Swinburne’s new Education Innovation Exchange

Swinburne has officially launched the Education Innovation Exchange (EIX), positioning itself at the forefront of educational transformation. 

The EIX aims to drive progressive innovations in teaching and learning, empowering educators and students with the tools, support, and community they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving university environment. 

Swinburne’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Education, Experience and Employability, Professor Laura-Anne Bull, shared her vision for the EIX during the launch, emphasising its mission to define and deliver the future of education at Swinburne.

"The initial vision for EIX is that it will serve as a dynamic hub where cutting-edge technology converges with innovative teaching practices. It will foster collaboration among educators and our students, and it will empower our educators with enhanced resources and support." 

A Hub of Innovation and Collaboration

Swinburne’s Pro Vice-Chancellor of Educational Innovation, Associate Professor Llew Mann, highlighted the unique approach of the EIX. 

"The exchange as a concept is around bringing together and exchanging ideas, knowledge, practices, and educational innovations within a supportive environment. Our mission is to transform student learning experiences at Swinburne in partnership with everyone."

Associate Professor Llew Mann added that the EIX would be key in establishing “Swinburne as a global leader in educational innovation, connecting the university to local, national, and international partners.” 

Four Branches of the EIX

A key feature from the launch of the EIX is its four distinct branches, each serving a unique purpose in advancing education at Swinburne: 

• Swinburne Educator Academy: A hub for educators to access professional learning, engage in scholarship of teaching and learning, and participate in communities of practice.

• Education Innovation Studio: A collaborative space to design and deliver high-quality, engaging and original educational solutions that will uplift the student experience in partnership with educators.  

• Education Innovation Lab: A space where experimentation is encouraged, where new technologies, teaching practices, and approaches are able to be explored. It offers a safe space for educators to innovate and ‘fail fast’ while refining best practices and trying new ideas.

• EIX Student Agency: A collaborative environment for students and educators to co-design educational innovations, ensuring that student voices play a critical role in their educational experience. 

These branches are designed to provide comprehensive support, from professional development to hands-on experimentation, ensuring that educators and students alike benefit from the resources and innovation the EIX offers.

Strategic Priorities and Future Focus 

The EIX team is focused on several strategic initiatives, including supporting the first-year refresh process, working in partnership with the schools to address retention and attrition challenges in higher education. 

Additionally, the EIX will play a crucial role in transforming the VET (Vocational Education and Training) model at Swinburne, particularly in the area of blended delivery. 

Associate Professor Llew Mann is eager for the Swinburne community to get involved in shaping the future of education through the EIX. Educators and staff will be invited to share their ideas, insights, and experiences through various opportunities in coming months.

"There's going to be a lot of opportunities coming through the schools for educators to share their ideas and experiences, and to really help shape what the Exchange could and should be." 

 For any enquiries contact the EIX team through eix@swin.edu.au