Duncan received praise for her efforts and sustained record of teaching excellence in her Kinesiology courses from both students and colleagues. She uses a student-centre approach and various teaching techniques to appoint experiential exercises, encouraging students to reflect on current events and issues while reaching a diverse group of learners.
“Being recognized has been incredible, mainly because it came from my terrific students,” said Duncan. “I care so much about all of them, and it was incredible having that reflected.”
Duncan’s commitment to student success is demonstrated as colleagues say she strives to provide the best possible academic training to Kinesiology graduate students, ensuring that they can make the most of their future opportunities. Students also praised Duncan for her successful transition to remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her dedication to responding to all student concerns and questions.
Duncan said, “I can see the great things my incredible students are capable of, the enthusiasm, and all of the potential – and if I have the ability to promote and grow that, I want to make the effort to help!”
Beyond the classroom, Duncan demonstrates enthusiasm and sensitivity to the needs of students and leaves a long-lasting influence and educational impact on her students.
The other 2021 recipients were Dan Wolczuk (Mathematics), Suzanne Kearns (Geography and Environmental Management) and Igor Ivkovic (Systems Design Engineering).