SPRING 2014 News andand viewsviews forfor the the people people of of Glasgow Glasgow Caledonian Caledonian Universit University y

PUTTING NEW HEART INTO THE CAMPUS £30million transformation begins PAGE 04

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION GCU launches TV partnership with STV PAGE 26 96.2% employment rate

At GCU, our staff put the future of our students are the heart of all we do. From work placement opportunities and industry led master-classes to strong links with industry and accrediting bodies, our staff strive to ensure our students develop their professional skills and experience. And the proof of this is in the pudding - with 96.2% of our graduates in employment or embarking on further studies 6 months after graduating (DLHE, 2012) - GCU is ahead of Cambridge and Oxford!

To find out more, visitwww.gcu.ac.uk Welcome to the spring issue of The Caledonian In this issue, our cover story focuses on Contents the £30million transformation that will 04 Putting new heart into the campus change the face of GCU’s Glasgow The £30million Heart of the Campus redevelopment of GCU’s Glasgow campus campus. University Secretary Jan Hulme gets under way tells us how, over the next two years, work 07 A risky business will be carried out to provide students and The Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas takes laughter and opinions outside the staff with the very best in learning, lecture theatre teaching and research facilities. 08 Lights, camera, action We also look at GCU’s partnership with STV launches Glasgow-focused TV channel, offering GCU students career- STV, as the broadcaster prepares to enhancing experiences launch its STV Glasgow channel with the 10 Window on the past help of the University. Students from Philanthropist and GCU Honorary Professor Eva Haller visits Glasgow and Social Sciences, Media, Multimedia GCU London Journalism and Marketing will have the 12 Beneath the surface opportunity to acquire career-enhancing GCU multi-disciplinary team look at what happens when pills leave the body and experience when the channel goes live in end up in fresh water June. 14 News Briefing Eva Haller, GCU graduate and champion curler Anna Sloan bags Winter bronze and Caroline one of the Rush becomes an Honorary Professor SPRING 2014 University’s News andand viewsviews forfor the the people people of of Glasgow Glasgow Caledonian Caledonian Universit University y 17 A real game changer inspirational Games Lecturer Romana Ramzan on how she wants to encourage more women Honorary into the industry Professors, talks to The 18 Figures of speech PUTTING NEW Caledonian HEART INTO THE CAMPUS about her life £30million transformation begins PAGE 04 GCU alumnus Alan Bennie LIGHTS, CAMERA, is the man behind the and work since ACTION GCU launches TV best-selling One Direction escaping Nazi partnership with STV PAGE 26 dolls. He returns to the persecution in University to share the the 1940s. As you will read, her recent trip secrets of his success to Glasgow included a poignant surprise. Another of our well-known supporters 20 A life less ordinary was also recently at GCU to conduct a Former child soldier Tindy Agaba talks about his violent childhood, human rights masterclass, former child soldier Tindy work and being adopted by Emma Thompson Agaba. Now a UN human rights advisor 22 Globalwatch and co-founder of the charity Muryango, GCU is helping to transform lives around the world he talks about his violent childhood, human rights work and being adopted by 24 Memorable music University researchers examine the use of music as a way of reconnecting actress Emma Thompson. dementia patients with their loved ones GCU’s researchers continue their ground-breaking work, with Dr Gianna 26 Shining a light on a dark centenary Professor John Lennon looks at the human fascination with visiting battlefields of Cassidy and Andy Lowndes looking at the Great War how the power of music can help people with dementia, while Dr Ole Pahl 28 Embracing the Commonwealth GCU students and staff celebrate Commonwealth Day and gear up for the investigates the outcomes of Commonwealth Games pharmaceutical waste entering fresh water systems. 31 Choose your own path Director of People Services Alex Killick discusses a one-stop shop for staff career We hope you enjoy these and the other development features we have compiled for this issue of The Caledonian and, of course, we always 32 SimMan’s reality check Two students from the School of Health and Life Sciences put their skills to the welcome your feedback and suggestions test when faced with a real-life emergency for future editorial content. 34 Back Story Ben Shepherd talks history on the airwaves

COVER PICTURE: Heart of the Campus. THE CALEDONIAN ublished by: Communications and Public Affairs, Glasgow Caledonian University.Designed and printed by: Print Design EDITORIAL TEAM PServices, Glasgow Caledonian University. Photography by: Peter Devlin, Guy Hinks, Getty, Derek Prescott. © Glasgow Caledonian University 2014. Glasgow Caledonian University Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow G4 0BA Scotland, United Kingdom [email protected] +44 (0)141 331 3000 www.gcu.ac.uk

03 COVER STORY Putting new heart into the campus Linda Robertson checks in on Glasgow’s £30million transformation project

he Heart of the Campus countdown first floors of the George Moore and Hamish Saltire Centre,” says Jan Hulme, University Tto construction is on! Wood buildings will be renovated to Secretary and Vice-Principal Governance. June sees the official launch of the improve learning spaces and social areas “GCU already provides an outstanding £30million redevelopment that will and to introduce a new concept for Student university experience for its students. transform the look and feel of the Services. However, we must keep moving forward. University estate. The Hamish Wood building will acquire “We want to provide students now, and The project is an exciting vision for the a striking glass pavilion which will act as in the future, with the very best in learning, future which will enhance the student the key entrance to the University and to teaching and research facilities.” experience and promote modern methods the Glasgow School for Business and It takes a significant amount of behind- of learning and teaching with state-of-the- Society. The building will also be the setting the-scenes work to prepare for a project of art spaces for people to work collaboratively for a new 500-seat flexible lecture theatre. this scale and to ensure the campus is ready and individually. The project will further enhance the for the contractor moving on site. Outdoor space will be revitalised with campus as a hub of learning, cultural At the time of going to print, the tender the introduction of three attractive development, knowledge creation and process is under way with a construction landscaped courtyards and stronger innovation in the heart of the city. company yet to be appointed. The winning connection routes will be created between “The University is creating a brighter bid is due to be announced in May. the George Moore, Saltire Centre and future with the Heart of the Campus project Since the start of the year, the GCU Hamish Wood buildings. and it will build further on the success of Estates team has co-ordinated and carried Over the next two years, the ground and the campus centrepiece, the award-winning out a programme of enabling works

04 Artist’s impression, subject to revision

WHAT? The Heart of the Campus is a £30million redevelopment of GCU’s Glasgow campus. including the migration of staff from levels home of the University restaurant and 0 and 1 of the George Moore into the Saltire social/learning space. This will replace the WHERE? and Charles Oakley. refectory currently in the Hamish Wood. Building work focuses on the lower floors Santander Bank is currently being This striking, contemporary space will of the George Moore and Hamish Wood relocated to the ground floor of the CEE feature floor-to-ceiling windows which will buildings. Outdoor space will be also be building (Glasgow School for Business and look out on to landscaped courtyard revitalised with the introduction of three Society Centre for Executive Education) and gardens. courtyard gardens. the learning café will be refreshed. The first floor of the George Moore These moves are essential to the project building will be dedicated to Student as the first phase of development centres Services, which will be substantially WHEN? June 2014 until summer 2016. on the ground and first floors of the George co-located for the first time and will also Moore building. offer an opportunity for social networking. From June until summer 2015 work will “The open-plan, one-stop concept for WHY? result in the removal of the external steps, Student Services will make it easier than To create state-of-the-art teaching, the creation of a street level entrance and a ever for students to access help and advice,” learning and research facilities, inspiring ‘grab and go’ café on the ground floor — the says Matt Lamb, GCU Student President. social spaces, enhanced outdoor areas perfect place for a quick bite or coffee When work is finished on the George and better connection routes to the between classes. Moore the spotlight will fall on the Hamish Saltire Centre. The ground floor will also be the new Wood ground and first floors >>>

05 continued from page 05 “The Heart of the Campus project takes unsettling, we hope students and staff are a pioneering approach to learning, teaching excited about the fantastic new facilities which will be under construction from and research provision,” says project that the Heart of the Campus will bring. summer 2015 to spring 2016. sponsor, Professor Mike Mannion, Vice- “We very much appreciate the efforts of It’s part of a longer term strategy for the Principal and Pro Vice-Chancellor Research those who have moved offices to allow work Hamish Wood, which is expected to see the and Academic Provost of Glasgow to start on the George Moore. During complete refurbishment of the building Caledonian University New York. construction we aim to enhance other areas phased over a number of years, which will “This investment will help us retain of the campus for students and staff require further investment. a reputation as one of the UK’s most including the refresh of the learning café in The creation of a glass pavilion at the innovative universities and will provide the CEE building.” front of the building will be a stunning new students with a campus environment that Glasgow’s Page\Park are the architects identity for the University and a gateway to meets their needs — one with sophisticated behind the project. the Glasgow School for Business and multi-functional learning spaces, cutting- “I believe the Heart of the Campus Society. edge technology and dynamic social areas.” project will be transformational for the The pavilion will be an open, inviting “Heart of the Campus is a major whole University community, with new social and learning space, flooded with light, redevelopment and a landmark in GCU’s learning, working and social environments with innovative design features, the latest history,” says Douglas Little, Director of spread through central University buildings technology and a café to give students, staff Estates. as well as out into the surrounding and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a quiet “Our objective is to deliver a first-class courtyards and landscape areas,” says moment before lectures or conferences, a campus environment that everyone can be Andrew Bateman of Page\Park. place to meet friends or colleagues or to proud of. “Arrival into the campus, and circulation catch up on emails while on the move. “The construction programme is being through will be greatly enhanced, and It will lead, via a gallery-style walkway, carefully managed and will recognise key previously unpopulated courtyard spaces to multi-purpose classrooms and a dates in the University calendar. will be transformed into creatively designed 500-seat flexible lecture theatre for exams, “We’ll do all that we can to minimise planted gardens with seating areas on new graduations and events. disruption and maintain the student attractive routes between buildings. These Landscaping plays a key role in the Heart experience.” gardens will become an intrinsic part of the of the Campus and will be phased Jan Hulme adds: “It is a time of transition everyday life of the campus, rather than throughout the construction period. for the University and while change can be spaces to simply look at.”

06 CALEDONIAN INSIGHT A risky business

The Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas is about much more than laughter outside the lecture theatre… it’s about opinions too, as Peter John Meiklem discovers

omedy compere Susan Morrison has under more prosaic circumstances. The or not as Professor Tracey Howe, Deputy Cdealt with some tricky crowds and experience, he says, was a good one. Chairman of the Glasgow City of Science unpredictable acts in her long career in the “I’m interested in talking about campaign and GCU physiotherapy business, but, she says with a trademark philosophy and ethics to anyone who wants researcher, gets stuck into the perils and dirty chuckle, The Cabaret of Dangerous to listen. I enjoy dealing with ideas and this pitfalls of social media. Ideas is something else. gives me a chance to hear arguments that I There are stronger views when “It’s where you get to watch serious might not have thought of myself. It international student Pei Ling Choo tries to academics cut loose and you never know introduces fresh approaches.” convince the audience that stereotypes where they are going to go. They can Given the opportunity to take on their — rather than the bane of the liberal suddenly unleash a hobby horse that you’ve lecturers on a level playing field, students intelligentsia — were, you know, ”kinda a no idea they’ve been riding all of these instantly warm to the idea. The crowd who good thing.” Although she lost the debate years. They start to engage in a totally (each Cabaret performer’s idea is subjected different way. That’s what’s exciting about to public vote once they are done) she left it. These people who lecture for a living are I’m interested in the stage exhilarated; her joke about the people and they have opinions and a sense talking about dark Glasgow alley, the huge Ugandan of humour and this is where they can let it philosophy and ethics friend and Kung Fu having left the crowd in all out.” “ stitches. Susan has come to GCU for the inaugural to anyone who wants “You get a lot of things from doing this. Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas, the latest One of the main things is the chance to be project to link academics with comedians to listen. creative,” said Pei Ling. “It allows lecturers with the aim of developing new skills and have gathered for the event grows quickly and students the chance to innovate and encouraging new ways of engaging outside as interested passers-by stay for a look, dream up creative ideas, which are a little the lecture hall. But where comedy initiative a listen and, in several cases, a bit of an dangerous, in a safe environment. I’m up for Bright Club has encouraged lecturers and argument. a debate with anyone.” researchers to turn themselves into No one is sure whether today’s part-time stand ups, the Cabaret has a more students are ‘twits’ serious, dare we say it, sinister purpose: unearthing and expressing the dangerous ideas that will animate audiences and provoke debate. Last year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe included a series of Cabaret shows with moves already afoot to extend the run in 2014. The GCU show, the first time the idea has travelled out of the capital, aims to capture new audiences, find new performers and unearth new and ever more dangerous ideas. GCU’s Professor Hugh McLachlan, Professor of Applied Philosophy, provoked the small but perfectly formed audience in the GCU Students’ Association Bistro with his belief that recent attempts to raise funds for victims of the Clutha disaster were unfair to those who had lost loved ones

07 Lights, camera, action

A new Glasgow-focused TV channel will give GCU students a career-enhancing experience, Craig G Telfer discovers

08 PARTNERSHIP

he countdown is on for the launch of is keen to ensure the students’ experience During the early negotiations for the T“the most exciting thing to happen in at STV Glasgow is as meaningful as licence, GCU was brought in as STV’s Scottish broadcasting for years”, and GCU possible. academic partner. Since the launch of the students are set to play an important part “We want a platform for people in the University’s journalism courses in 2002, in its inception. creative industries and the community both parties have enjoyed a strong STV Glasgow, the city’s first local they want to serve,” he says. “We have relationship with many graduates going on television station, is set to begin an open door compared to some other to work with the broadcaster on a broadcasting on Monday, June 2. The new broadcasters, and we want these people permanent basis. Ben believes that GCU channel will provide a mixture of news, to come in and collaborate with us. We’re and STV share the same vision on how they features and sport that focuses exclusively hoping that GCU students will feel that this want to represent Glasgow. on Glasgow and its citizens. The Riverside is a place where they can come and “We’re aligned in what they want to give Show, the channel’s flagship programme, experience the industry with goodwill. the community and how they want to will have space in its production hub for “Some people will naturally gravitate engage with people and get them involved,” GCU’s student journalists to manage its towards other forms of media, but we’re he says. “There’s a lot of synergy between social media channels and engage with looking for students who see their future the two and it made complete sense for us viewer interaction on Twitter and Facebook. working in television production. There’s to do this. “Social media will form a big part of the nowhere else in Scotland where they can “The whole thing is about community programme,” explains Paul Hughes, the work at this kind of level. It’s an opportunity engagement and ties in with the common Channel Editor of STV Glasgow. “We want for them to learn.” weal. The purpose of this station is to say: stuff that can be used as a discussion point The chance to work at STV Glasgow will ‘Look, Glasgow! This is for you!’ This is an and dictate the agenda. not just be limited to the University’s opportunity to ask the city: ‘What do you “Multi-screening — sitting in front of the trainee journalists, however. Ben is hoping want? How do you want it? What are the TV with a laptop or an iPad — was that students from the Glasgow School for issues and discussions that matter to you?’ something we only talked about years ago, Business and Society’s (GSBS) other and give them a platform to express but now it’s real. It happens in the majority courses will have the opportunity to take themselves.” of households and we’ll be exploiting it to part too. When the successful bid for the licence make the channel a success. GCU students was announced, a BBC report said the will play a big role in this.” channels will help “re-engage people with Ben McConville, GCU’s Head of Social There are so many local democracy and provide a useful Sciences, Media and Journalism, believes opportunities in the public service” and Ben thinks the new STV Glasgow will provide the University’s station is a natural progression from local trainee journalists with an excellent media for a well-trained newspapers. opportunity as they take their first steps in “ “The newspaper is an integral part of the graduate. the industry. Indeed, “opportunity” is a community,” he explains. “It’s something word that frequently comes up throughout “Our marketing students are going to be where people can find out information our conversation. involved with the launch of the station,” he about what’s going on around them, where “If this had been available when I was a says. “Right across GSBS, opportunities they can express an interest in things and student, I would have bitten your hand off will be made available. STV are keen to see join in with the democratic process. And for it!” laughs Ben. “This is the chance to our students working at all levels, not just now we have a big network with so many engage with a real working project that’s within their journalism department. It’s too channels, taking the same idea to television part of a serious organisation. The good an opportunity to turn down — the is the next step as a result of the opportunity is there for students to demand will be high and we’ll have to make technology.” enhance and enrich their experience and, sure we manage it correctly.” Paul also has high hopes for the channel. at STV, they’ll have a supported structure STV Glasgow and its sister station STV “I think people will be pleasantly surprised and something that’s both viable and Edinburgh, which will begin broadcasting with STV Glasgow,” he says valuable. later in the year, were awarded their 12-year enthusiastically. “It’s a fine project and one “This is not a tea-making exercise — this licences in January 2013 and will be funded of the most exciting things to happen in can become part of a showreel, it can take by part of the BBC licence fee. STV Glasgow Scottish broadcasting in years. It has them to new places. There are so many will be available on freeview, Sky and serious commitment from STV and from opportunities in the media for a well- Virgin and will have the potential to reach our partners. trained graduate.” more than two million people in the west “The channel is going to be very Ben’s sentiment is echoed by Paul, who of Scotland. successful over the next 12 years.”

09 Window on the past After escaping Nazi persecution in the 1940s, philanthropist and GCU Honorary Professor Eva Haller has dedicated her life to helping others. Roisin Eadie and Lynn McGarry find out why Eva’s recent visit to GCU was most poignant

or internationally renowned activist and FHonorary Professor of GCU, Professor Eva Haller, her first visit to the University was a journey of discovery that opened up opportunities for the future while celebrating and commemorating achievements and hardships of the past. Accompanied by her husband Dr Yoel Haller, Professor Haller, 83, spent a busy week at GCU, including a day at GCU London. During their time here, they met members of staff, students, children and parents from the Caledonian Club. Professor Haller also took centre stage for a Magnusson Fellowship event, hosted by Honorary Graduate and BBC presenter Dr Sally Magnusson. Students, staff and guests were enthralled with stories of Professor Haller’s childhood experiences working for the Hungarian Resistance, her escape from SS officers and the incredible career success that has enabled her to devote herself to philanthropy throughout her life. But it was a trip off campus that was to provide one of the most unforgettable moments of the visit. Accompanied by Principal Professor Pamela Gillies, the Hallers made a quiet pilgrimage to Queen’s Park West Church in the city’s south side to meet Morag Reid, a church elder. Over a cup of tea, Professor Haller and Morag shared stories and their admiration for a remarkable young Scottish missionary who sacrificed her own life to protect Jewish children facing persecution and death at the hands of the Nazis. Jane Haining was a member of the Queen’s Park West congregation when she applied for the post of matron in a Church of Scotland girls’ school in Budapest. She made visits to Scotland but always returned to Hungary. As the Nazis rounded up Jewish families, she defied advice to leave and continued to shelter children from the war-time atrocities. Professor Haller arrived at the school in

1944, shortly after Jane was captured and Professor Eva Haller: stained glass window helpped put past into perspective

10 IN FOCUS: EVA HALLER

according to a death certificate later sent by German legation in Budapest, she died of ‘cachexia following intestinal catarrh’.” Professor Haller said: “I had no idea about the windows and I never really knew Shining a light on a what had happened to Jane. The revelations have come with each new piece of information have become another way of mourning for her, and being grateful to her. I am enormously moved by the experience of seeing the windows and knowing how that 47-year-old woman gave up her life to save us.” Now living in the US, where she and her husband work with organisations dedicated to helping young people across the world, The Caledonian Club at GCU London the Hallers were keen to meet Caledonian Club and GCU London Club members to find out more about the University’s work to sent to Auschwitz, where she died two raise educational and social aspiration. months later. During their visit to GCU London, they “Once it became clear we were in were introduced to year 3/4 pupils from danger, I was taken to the Scottish mission Canon Barnett Primary School as the where I was hidden for two or three months. “people who have travelled all the way from That saved my life. The school became a America” to attend the showcase launch of place of protection and I never had the the Club’s 12th digital book, Molly and opportunity to say thank you in Scotland Cally’s Quest to find the Missing Amulet. until now,” Professor Haller told Morag. Professor Haller said: “The children’s Morag has been fascinated by Jane work was magnificent, inspiring, fun and Haining since she was a child. She has original. I have never seen anything like it. carried out extensive research, helped a The Club is such a worthwhile project and it successful campaign for Jane to be should be duplicated all over the US, where recognised with a place among the we have the same issues.” Righteous Among the Nations in Yad The children were also joined at GCU Vashem, the Holocaust Martyrs and Heroes London by their families and teachers. Memorial in Jerusalem, and continues to Class teacher Sarah Spankie said: “The deliver talks to organisations and church kids were really excited about coming into a groups. University to see their story for the first “As a little girl, I used to gaze at the two time. The team worked with them on stained-glass windows of remembrance for creating a story and characters and linked Jane in the church and wonder what they the book to a topic we were already were about. As I heard her story, I grew studying — Egypt. Being able to tap into the more and more certain that people should GCU team’s expertise and have them work know about Jane Haining,” said Morag. so closely with the children has been Professor Haller listened as Morag gave valuable.” her details of the Scotswoman’s fate and Rayhana Shirin, whose daughter Maisha showed her a copy of the last letter ever took part in the project, said: “The children written by Jane. have been given such an insight into the Morag said: “The person who alerted the history of Egypt in an impressive project Gestapo to Jane was the son-in-law of the that encouraged them to explore and create. school cook. He had been helping himself to The book is gorgeous and today’s event was the girls’ rations and Jane had to reprove so much fun.” him. In a fit of pique, he reported her to the The Hallers are already preparing for a authorities. “Jane was taken to Auschwitz return to GCU in June, when they will be and sent to work in the mines, where she presented with Honorary Degrees by and other women worked 14 hours a day in Chancellor Professor Muhammad Yunus terrible conditions. It is widely presumed during this summer’s graduation that Jane died in the gas chambers but, ceremonies.

11 RESEARCH: NoPILLS Looking beneath the surface A GCU team is investigating the outcomes of pharmaceutical waste entering fresh water and how it might be reduced by changing consumer behaviour. Peter John Meiklem reports

hen popping a pill for a nagging pass through the body and end up in rivers, pharmaceutical waste in water in the EU Wheadache, few think of the effect the streams and lochs. INTERREG-funded £7million noPILLS drug may eventually have on the For the past year, a multi-disciplinary project. environment. team at GCU, alongside colleagues at five Dr Ole Pahl, a GCU chemical engineer Yet, with around 3000 pharmaceutical other European institutions, including water and the Principal Investigator, explains: “We substances licensed for use in Europe, more boards and universities, has been looking are trying to work together to find out ways people are becoming aware of what not just at the issue, but at the attitudes and by which pharmaceutical pollution in rivers happens when drugs and similar substances opinions which communities have towards and other surface waters may be reduced.

12 Not just by technical interventions such as information thrown up by the study, and Spectrometry (LC-MS) instrument, housed waste water treatment plants but by further investigate a method of removing in the School of Engineering and Built working to perhaps change consumer and pharmaceutical residue from water — Environment, which will be used to detect waste disposal behaviour.” called ferrate treatment — which was and measure at molecular level the It is an area of growing concern with the tested as part of the earlier study. pharmaceutical traces in the water. European Parliament considering legislating The team will also investigate the toxic Like many EU-funded projects of its on the issue in the near future. Dr Pahl effects of single and mixed pharmaceuticals scale, its multi-disciplinary nature is a major explains that each partner in noPILLS brings on aquatic life, as these are still not fully strength. The GCU team alone includes a its own unique strength as the partners known. range of different backgrounds and skillsets: search for acceptable solutions: “Here at On the surface, it seems alarming, but social science, community engagement, GCU we are concentrating on the social the team are keen to avoid any hint of panic. analytical sciences such as microbiology or aspects of the work, trying to figure out how The concentrations in water are very low chemical analyses, chemical process aware people are of micro-pollutants in and there is no suggestion that they are engineering, geographic information waste water and surface water and if they harmful to humans. There may, however, be analysis and digital media and want to think about it, and from there other implications. communications technologies. decide what can be done.” Karin Helwig, a noPILLS researcher at Dr Paul Teedon, a senior research fellow noPILLS follows an earlier project: GCU, says: “There’s a study which looks at in community engagement, specialises in ‘Pharmaceutical Input and Elimination from an algal community. Put that under a the techniques used to boost public Local Sources’ (PILLS). This study, also with microscope and it’s an eco-system all of its participation in academic studies. His input European partners, ended in 2012 and own. A group tested the effects of a cough to the study will be in two phases, the first investigated various methods of removing medicine that dissolves the mucus in your — which is roughly half-way through — pharmaceutical waste from water when it throat, and it did exactly that to the algal involves one-to-one interviews with people leaves hospitals. This can only deal with the community.” about medicines and how they use and 20 per cent of waste which enters the water Dr Pahl continues: “If you start with dispose of them. The second will involve a cycle in this way. A further 80 per cent waste water then the most important thing wider discussion on the environmental enters through homes and businesses. is to get solids, the organic load and issues surrounding the use of Over the next few years, the GCU nutrients out of it — that’s what happens at pharmaceuticals. noPILLS team will detect sewage works. Then, when you get to that “We are looking at how the public can ? pharmaceuticals and their biological stage, you ask what is left in the water, and get more actively involved in more scientific effects in fieldwork areas across central what effect it has on the environment, and areas. There’s a feeling that we need to Scotland; discover if people will be willing to people are now beginning to wonder what understand more about how members of change their consumption habits; build is the answer to that question. the general public can change their mobile applications that will communicate “It’s a question of scale: we don’t know behaviours as we can’t deal with everything what is there, what the effects are or what scientifically.” the effects of the various combinations of Dr Teedon is working in five areas across substances might be. We believe it’s time to Scotland from Caithness to Glasgow to see start investigating.” if attitudes vary across the country: “We That work involves “a nice mix or low don’t want to alarm people but we do need and high-key technology”, ranging from to let them know that it’s something we’re simple buckets — or in some cases looking at, and that we may need to disinfected glass jars — with which introduce policies to create change.” water samples are gathered, to Kirsten Adamczak, of the recently purchased Emschergenossenschaft, a German water £320,000 Liquid board which is partnering in noPILLS, says Chromatography-Mass there have been a lot TV reports in Germany about the issue over the past few years. “That’s made people a little worried — because they have mentioned drinking Karin Helwig and Dr Ole Pahl conducting water. The project isn’t about drinking their tests water, but waste water — drinking water is one of the best controlled things in Europe — but it shows that it’s important to tell people about the background to the issue and what people can do themselves to tackle pharmaceuticals in the environment. And working together on that, across Europe, is much better than each nation trying to find solutions in their own country.”

13 NEWS BRIEFING

Anna brings home bronze With Honorary Professor Patrick Grant and Caroline Rush delivering professorial lectures, it’s been a fashionable few months at GCU. It’s been a sporty few too, with international curling star Anna Sloan landing a bronze medal at the Winter Olympics

FASHIONABLY GREAT Norton & Sons, turning it into one of the world’s top luxury labels, worn by men such as Christian Louboutin, Christopher Kane and the late Alexander McQueen.

BRAZILIANS WELCOMED GCU Principal Professor Pamela Gillies CBE welcomed 400 Brazilian students from the Science Without Borders Programme to Glasgow at an event in City Chambers. Professor Gillies surprised and delighted students and guests by speaking in their native tongue of Portugese during her address. Talking after the event, Professor Gillies said: “Our visitors will have a chance to develop the unique skills and experiences that studying in a foreign country can provide, while the diversity of our campuses will be enriched by their educational and cultural contributions.”

GCU London Award-winning designer and COLLEGE CONNECT Honorary Professor Patrick Grant delivered GCU Professor Alice Brown, Chair of his inaugural Professorial Lecture to an the Scottish Funding Council (SFC), OLYMPIC VICTORY audience of students, staff and invited delivered a keynote address as part of guests from the fashion industry. The the launch of GCU’s College Connect Alumna GCU cheered international curling address focused on how clothes and the Strategy 2013-2020. The address was star Anna Sloan to Bronze medal victory at clothing industry have shaped Britain and delivered to staff, student representatives the Winter Olympics in Sochi. The 23-year- its relationship with the rest of the world and invited guests. The College Connect old, who graduated with a BA (Hons) Sport since the middle ages. A judge on the BBC’s Strategy provides a framework for GCU to And Active Lifestyles Promotion in 2012, Great British Sewing Bee, Professor Grant support articulation and further enhance played a key role in Team GB’s curling squad has transformed the fortunes of one of GCU’s existing relationships with its victory over Switzerland in a thrilling medal Savile Row’s most prestigious tailors, partner colleges.

14 ENERGY PIONEERS CHANCELLOR HONOURED GCU Glasgow Caledonian University Award The Asia Foundation’s Lotus Circle, was announced as one of several Scottish a group of committed individuals, University partners in a new £10.6million foundations, and corporations working Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, which aims together to advance the rights and to pioneer oil and gas technology by linking opportunities of women in Asia, announced researchers with industry. Funded by the it is to honour Professor Muhammad Yunus Scottish Funding Council and supported by Scottish Enterprise and HIE, the Innovation Centre will be based in Aberdeen.

MOVING STORY EBE A student designed the book cover for a Holocaust survivor story which charts the journey of one woman’s struggle for freedom and her daughter’s quest to unveil her secret past. Surviving Brigitte’s Secrets, is the memoir of Saskia Tepe. The author and her publishing company, Author Way, selected a design by third-year student Kevin Hickey to be the front cover of her new book. Kevin, 24, from East Kilbride, took part in a competition organised by Gathering the Voices, a GCU-supported project which documents unique oral testimonies of Holocaust survivors who sought sanctuary in Britain. as this year’s recipient of the Lotus Leadership Award in recognition of his AUSTERITY STUDY efforts to eliminate economic inequality and improve the lives of women and girls throughout Bangladesh and around the world. The Lotus Leadership Award is presented each year to outstanding individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions to the wellbeing of women and their communities in Asia. Professor Yunus will receive the Foundation’s Lotus Leadership Award on June 18, in New York at The Asia Foundation’s fourth Annual Lotus Leadership Awards event.

REFERENDUM DEBATE GCU Around 100 students, staff and members of the public posed questions to a Research The University has embarked on cross-party political panel at a referendum a major new research project funded by the debate organised by the GCU Students’ Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF). The Association. The Minister for Youth study will look at how austerity has affected Employment Angela Constance MSP; play-off. Anna is no stranger to the the groups and individuals in Scotland most Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats pressures of international competition. reliant upon public services, such as Willie Rennie MSP; Co-convener of the In 2013, after winning Gold at the World children, the elderly, poor and the disabled. Scottish Greens Patrick Harvie MSP; and Championships, Anna spoke of how she The GCU research team is led by Principal Glasgow Labour Councillor and executive was able to juggle her studies and training Investigator Professor Darinka Asenova member for education and young people commitments with the support of GCU (above) and co-investigators Dr John Stephen Curran, were invited to the campus staff and students. McKendrick and Claire McCann, from the to debate the future of education and youth Glasgow School for Business and Society. employment in post-referendum Scotland.>>>

15 NEWS BRIEFING

POLAR EXPLORER wonderful Desmond Tutu gave his GSBS There was great interest surrounding exuberant thanks, followed by the joyful the visit of Liv Arnesen, the first woman to voices of the Soweto Gospel Choir. Nelson reach the South Pole, who delivered a guest Mandela was one of the most inspirational lecture at GCU. The Norwegian adventurer figures of his generation, and his made international headlines by skiing solo unwavering commitment to fighting to the South Pole in 1994, covering the 745 injustice, in South Africa and beyond, was miles in 50 days. Arnesen’s passion for an inspiration to millions around the world. environmental issues led to her The work that our University did along with appointment to the board of the Thor others to support Nelson Mandela’s Heyerdahl Institute in Norway, which has struggle, and to engage with South Africa, is worked with GCU’s Moffat Centre for Travel an important part of our history of which we and Tourism for the past 12 years. are rightly proud.”

SURVEYING SUCCESS BRIGHTER FUTURES EBE Lecturers revealed that 25 out of 29 DARO GCU launched its Brighter Futures full-time fourth year BSc Quantity Surveying Fund telethon to update alumni on students have been offered positions with University activities and ask them for their companies three months before they support for widening access scholarships graduate. The School of Engineering and and community programmes. Director of Built Environment has attributed its Development & Global Engagement, Janet employability success to the quality of Roberts, said:“GCU continues to enjoy teaching and partnerships with industry growing support from generous and which provide students with work the University on the former South committed alumni and friends, for a wide placements during their studies. African leader in 1996 at a ceremony variety of initiatives that, without their in Buckingham Palace hosted by the Duke support, simply wouldn’t have been of Edinburgh. Speaking after the ceremony possible. It means a lot to students to talk to REMEMBERING MANDELA at Westminster Abbey, Professor Gillies alumni about their experiences of GCU, as GCU Principal Professor Pamela Gillies said: “I was so privileged to be invited well as to let them know about what’s going attended the Nelson Mandela memorial to attend. I had goose bumps when a on at GCU today, and the difference that service held at Westminster Abbey. GCU recording of Nelson Mandela’s distinctive alumni support can make to the student conferred an Honorary Degree of Doctor of voice filled the vault, and again when the experience.”

FASHIONABLE PROFESSOR GCU Caroline Rush, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, was made an Honorary Professor of GCU and delivered her Inaugural Professorial Lecture at the British School of Fashion at GCU London. In her lecture “The Evolution of British Fashion”, Professor Rush traced the development of fashion over the past 20 years and predicted aspects of its continuing evolution over the next decade. The British School of Fashion also announced the launch of two pioneering Masters programmes and a Women in Fashion research programme, building on its pioneering work to meet the evolving needs of a fast-paced industry. Look out for our exclusive interview with Caroline in the next issue of The Caroline Rush with Principal Professor Pamela Gillies and Professors Karen Stanton and Christopher Moore Caledonian.

16 INTERVIEW: ROMANA RAMZAN

A real game changer

She’s just been named Woman of the Future at the Scottish Asian Women’s Awards, and now it’s on to the next level for Games Design lecturer Romana Ramzan. Chris Fitzgerald reports

s a young Romana Ramzan bashed the Abuttons on her Nintendo joypad, little did she realise that her childhood past-time would go on to shape her life. Now a lecturer in Games Design, Romana said she owes much of what she does for a living to those formative hours spent playing Mario. “I never thought I could have a career in games,” she said, smiling at the memory. “It was only during the fourth year of my Internet Software degree that I realised it was something I could pursue.” Games have evolved from predominantly solitary experiences to collaborative, interactive ones that developers are now looking to embrace. It was this interactive ethos that inspired Romana’s PhD in Serious Games, an examination of how ‘exergames’, such as the Nintendo Wii Fit, can improve Romana Ramzan is keen to get more women involved in the games industry health and wellbeing. After leaving GCU, Romana headed for Dundee, Scotland’s Games, User Centred Design and Affective a race against the clock. At the first Scottish gaming capital, where she joined game Gaming. Game Jam in 2009, there were no women creation company Denki as the curiously She intends to use her position to taking part. In just five years, the number titled “Player Champion”. encourage more women into the industry. has reached double digits and Romana is Her academic background was key “Encouraging greater gender diversity confident it will continue to rise. Scottish because she was responsible for can only enrich and strengthen the industry Game Jam organisers went on to win the understanding who the company’s players by bringing new perspectives that can lead inaugural Principal’s Team Award for were, identifying their needs, then feeding to more creative gaming experiences,” said Learning and Teaching in 2013. that information into the development Romana. Romana’s individual work hasn’t gone process. “Speaking at events and running unnoticed either. Listed as one of Develop’s Romana wasn’t destined to remain in workshops helps to break the stereotype of Top 30 Under 30 most ‘influential rising Tayside for long, however. The lure of what a game designer looks like. They see a stars of the international gaming industry’ in academia was too much to resist. “At Denki, young woman stood before them and it gets 2012, she was named Woman of the Future I had the opportunity to give guest lectures them thinking, before I’ve even said at the Scottish Asian Women’s Awards, and I felt that it was something I wanted to anything, that this is no longer a boys’ organised by the Scottish Asian Women’s do permanently. When the job came up at playground.” Association, in March this year. GCU, it was perfect timing.” Romana and her colleagues run the “The awards identify role models for Returning to the School of Engineering annual Scottish Game Jam in GCU’s Saltire women, especially Asian women, and help and Built Environment in February 2014, Centre. Part of Global Game Jam, a 48-hour to raise awareness about the career Romana took up teaching on the BSc event involving 17,000 people in 63 opportunities available in Scotland, so I was Computer Games (Design) course, as well countries, it challenges participants to delighted and honoured to accept,” said as pursuing her research interests in Serious design and develop original game content in Romana.

17 MASTERCLASS: ALAN BENNIE

Figures of speech GCU alumnus Alan Bennie has created some of the world’s most successful action figures and toys. Now he returns to the University to share the secrets of his success, reports Lynn McGarry

ne of the toy industry’s biggest players “I thought, a couple of years in the toy smoking. There’s a word in the industry Oreturned to GCU to share the industry then do something else, but doors ‘toyetic’ — the potential of a character to expertise he began to develop as a student opened,” he said. “As I progressed, be turned into a toy — which Thunderbirds at Glasgow College of Technology. however, the company hit choppy waters lent itself to. We sold out. Our switchboard Half of Vivid Imaginations — the British and went into receivership the day I was was jammed — even celebrities were trying toy company that ranks alongside Lego, signing my mortgage. I was sitting with the to use their influence to get their hands on Mattel and Hasbro as the largest in the UK, man from the bank thinking ‘I hope he the toys. Blue Peter asked if they could brought One Direction dolls, Animagic, doesn’t listen to the news!’” make their own Tracey Island. The BBC’s Bratz and Moshi Monsters to the shelves With Nick Austin, who would co-found switchboard jammed too.” and reignited the Thunderbirds brand Vivid, Alan was tasked by Lesney’s buyer to The brand became so successful that — Alan Bennie would never have guessed u-turn Matchbox’s fortunes. “We did. It the company was snapped up by US firm that he’d be celebrated by the institution he was a formative experience — a difficult Tyco and, when Alan and Nick spotted the left in 1977. process where people lost their jobs. We BBC comeback of another great British “I was honoured to receive an alumni didn’t want to do it again, so, when we hero, Captain Scarlet, they believed they achievement award,” said Alan. “It was a established Vivid we kept our structure could replicate the phenomenon. lovely experience. My student flexible enough to cope with growth “The culture had become very self would have been and to get by if we needed to. It corporate,” said Alan. “We saw Captain stunned, but I don’t think was almost a rehearsal for running Scarlet would be successful but they were that anything that has our own business.” interested in global properties. That was happened in my career could Then Alan and Nick spotted the catalyst.” have been predicted.” the potential of a British classic. Landing the licence to create Captain After graduating in “We had amazing success Scarlet toys was a coup for a fledgling accountancy with a vague plan with Thunderbirds, which business and, with the support of retailers to “get into business”, Alan perplexed US competitors who knew what they were capable of, Alan joined Lesney, the company — this quirky show with Lady and Nick set up Vivid. behind Matchbox cars. Penelope slugging martinis and “I wanted to be in charge of my destiny,”

18 Figures of speech

said Alan. “It was a big step. The toy music, sport and business. Vivid is also a is rooted in long relationships and that industry is the ultimate fashion industry. co-founder of the International Council of doesn’t happen if you are not a good Trends come and go quickly, yet the Toy Industries (ICTI), and Alan relishes partner. We identify with that at GCU, as companies dominating toys were slow- mentoring a new generation of well as its entrepreneurialism and moving. We felt there was an opportunity entrepreneurs. internationalisation work. I’m enjoying for a fast-moving company that made quick “I would love to manufacture in the UK reconnecting. decisions, was professional, attuned. We but our business wouldn’t exist if we’d “I’m now a venture partner with a find the projects and move on it.” tried,” said Alan. “So we have been private equity firm supporting up-and- The company has gone on to huge proactive in establishing ICTI. It promotes coming teams. I’d advise GCU’s graduates success with brands including Moshi ethical manufacturing by, for example, who hope to do their own thing in business Monsters — the UK’s biggest toy brand for working to ensure that appropriate health to have a product people want. Knowing two years in an industry where just one in and safety, recruitment, fire management the market is important, too. Be prepared to 20 new toys is still in production after a and living conditions are in place. We train fail and learn from it. Learning from year. This year Alan hopes Cayla, a doll and work with vendors to help them adversity is part of the process; the trick is which uses Google speech-to-text understand what we are trying to do and to fail not too expensively. technology to interact with children will be why. ICTI ensures the major companies, “Be passionate and commit your life to it Christmas’s must-have. With Vivid ranking retailers and licensors work together to the and it is great to find someone to work with in Europe’s top 10, top 20 globally, and, in same code of practice. We have also who is good at what you are not. 2012, turning over £120 million (£300m sourced factories who weren’t members “I’d love to see more teams from places retail) worldwide, Alan has no plans to and worked to get them to an appropriate other than hubs in the south east. We need retire but is thinking outside the toy box level. It is a teaching process. to get a Glasgow hub going. and stepping back from the day-to-day of “So GCU’s commitment to ethical, “As I am less in the day-to-day at Vivid, the business. sustainable business education is it’s interesting to get involved in other The father of three loves raising money something we relate to. There are parallels things. I don’t relax anywhere more than at for charity, cycling around the globe with with Vivid. We regard ourselves as a my cottage in Lamlash, but there’s never a The Truants, friends from the worlds of high-integrity business. Part of our success day I’m not involved.”

19 INTERVIEW: TINDYEBWA AGABA Life less ordinary

At just 27 years old, Tindyebwa ‘Tindy’ Agaba has amassed more experiences than most people do in a lifetime. Peter John Meiklem talks to the former child soldier about his violent childhood, human rights work and being adopted by actress Emma Thompson

ormer child soldier Tindyebwa ‘Tindy’ kidnapped at 13 and forced to fight as a FAgaba has an unexpected, if deadly, child soldier before charity Care weapon in his arsenal: his wicked sense of International helped him escape to the UK, fun. where he was adopted by Thompson. “Yes,” he beams, mentioning the charity A Politics and International Relations Muryango he has set up in Cairo to help graduate from Exeter University, he also has African refugees. “We stage music concerts, an MA in Human Rights Law from the wedding celebrations, we put on a bit of School of Oriental and African Studies drama. The little bit of fun is as important as (SOAS), and has worked in or run a number anything else we do.” of charities, helping former child soldiers Fun is also good word to describe the and asylum seekers. 27-year-old human rights worker. His helter- Muryango, which is a Rwandan word skelter laugh, his rainbow scarf and felt hat, meaning family, has five paid staff and two and his easy-going manner don’t so much pro-bono lawyers, but now operates suggest fun, as bellow it from the rooftops. independently. entrepreneur. But I also say I’m an aspiring, Tindy first visited the University during “I wanted to escape from home and ambitious politician. My dream of starting a last year’s summer graduation ceremonies, have a different adventure,”Tindy charity run by local people has been where he watched his grandmother, actress remembers. “So I found myself down in accomplished so I want to try something and GCU alumna Phyllida Law, receive an Cairo. I got a job as a legal advisor which, new. I want to help people with their local Honorary Doctorate (Tindy is the adopted issues like council tax. I love the adrenalin of son of actress Emma Thompson, but more local politics.” of that later). The little bit of fun is He’s certainly charismatic enough — As the day unfolded it became apparent as important as whether poking holes in the rather detailed that Tindy’s experience as a UN human questions which the Home Office forces rights advisor alongside his work setting up anything else we do. foreigners to answer during his masterclass Muryango, chimed with GCU’s own social “ — do you know the date when women in mission and commitment to do good on the essentially, was assessing claims of asylum the UK were first legally allowed to divorce world stage. seekers coming into Cairo, writing their their spouses? — or explaining to staff and So he returned to the University in late testimonies and legal submissions and then students his philosophy of operating February and gave an unorthodox representing them in the tribunals of the community projects, he does so with a masterclass, unusual not just because of his United High Commission for Refugees charm which could easily translate into youth and his free-wheeling delivery, but for (UNHCR). I ended up loving the place, no ballot box success. the emotional clout of his personal story. matter how difficult it was with the racism It seems effortless. But then, Tindy has “I’m an old bastard of 27 years,” he you meet in the souks and on streets. There faced down bigger challenges. His laughs, shrugging his shoulders at his own I discovered the UN wasn’t providing what memories of the time he spent with the incredible life experience. was needed in those communities so I militia in Rwanda, the raw experiences Tindy’s father died when he was only decided to start an organisation.” which underpin his later human rights work, nine and his mother and sisters are That job complete, he is, perhaps are still very much with him. presumed to have been killed during the typically, on the hunt for new challenges. He says much of what he had to do Rwandan genocide of 1994. He was “When people ask I say I’m a social during that period was more ordinary than

20 people think: spying, cooking, foraging for whose interest in cinema went as far as food — though sometimes he would be action movies such as Rambo, and she was commanded to do more. He would be sent a stranger who was kind enough to offer Tindy with grandmother and GCU Honorary Doctor Phyllida Law and mother Emma Thompson to steal. him a ride home. “I would point the gun at people’s heads “I had absolutely no idea who she was. I and watch them scream with fear and was this young boy from Rwanda. I was dinner with them both. It was weird; I just terror. They would give me whatever I given a lift and she asked me to come saw these people yesterday and now there’s wanted. Once in a while we were forced to around on Christmas Eve. We struck up a this film. I was amazed; I couldn’t work it go on the attack, but that was occasionally. relationship and I moved into her house out properly.” Mostly, it was mundane. when I was 17.” For Tindy, family time is something a lot “I tell my friends now that my best mates He knows it sounds like a story from, simpler and more familiar. were made in the war and a good number of well, the kind of film Thompson herself has “We do things that make us laugh. We them are dead. For me it was terrifying, but been known to star in — a Love Actually, if sit around the table and argue endlessly and the bonds that we made, the friendships you will — but Tindy doesn’t see the fight endlessly, and it’s great. They’re happy you nurture over the time, you feel that’s glamour as awfully important with the career I’ve chosen as they know I’m almost worth it. It becomes like a family. “If I’d grown up in this country I’d feel not suited to desk work. They know I’m You try to forget about it but the strong different, but for me, I don’t give a damn better with people. bond with the people you’ve been fighting about that. When I first arrived I started to “They support me, they know my alongside stays with you.” notice how big these things are here, but I strengths are talking to the people, and Tindy now has another family, of course; still don’t understand why. listening to the people, and saying, yes, let’s another that isn’t exactly run of the mill. He “I saw her [Emma] on screen for the first do this.” first met Emma Thompson at a Refugee time when I was at sixth form college, trying And with that Tindy is done, on his feet Council Christmas party in London. He had to get hold of A levels. My English teacher and shaking the hand of his next managed to escape the militia and the brought in a DVD of Henry V and she was in interviewer, grinning and, of course, making charity had spirited him to the UK where we that film and so was Imelda [Staunton]. It free with his infectious laugh, which sounds would be safe. He was a 16-year-old boy, was a Monday and on the weekend I’d had an awful lot like fun itself.

21 GLOBALWATCH How Stephanie helped change a family’s life “If I had done my original project, I wouldn’t have had the same opportunities or got to see what I saw. “I feel I made a difference and have gained a new perspective. I have achieved a milestone in my life and hope the people I have met feel the same. I am now sure I want to stay in research and I have realised that you don’t need anything but love, family and friends.”

BEIRUT GCU is helping shape the future of the student journey in Palestine, Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon. Rhona Hodgart, Exchange Manager, and Dougie Smith, Student Leaders’ Coordinator in the Students’ Association, travelled to Beirut to share best practice on enhancing the student experience from establishing students’ associations to academic procedures, with senior university managers from the four nations. The project is part of Medawel, an EU TEMPUS-funded programme designed to help Southern Neighbouring Area Stephanie helps out at the orphanage Institutions study the best in student services and how they can be implemented CAMBODIA project of which she is most proud was at their home universities. last-minute change of plan led to a found close to home. “It was a fantastic opportunity to Alife-changing experience for “I became friendly with some children establish relationships and it was wonderful Magnusson Award winner Stephanie Smith. nearby and what I found when I was invited to find so much common ground as we Stephanie, who is undertaking a PhD in to their home broke my heart,” said shared how the University and GCUSA work neuromuscular control in knee Stephanie. “Their mum was six months’ together,” Rhona said. osteoarthritis, had hoped to raise awareness pregnant and supporting them as a sex “The senior university managers we of disability sports for prosthetists/ worker. She was drinking heavily to cope. worked with were extremely enthusiastic orthotists in Cambodia but was forced to Their hut houses three families and had no and we have received great feedback from switch project shortly before heading there. proper floor. The mud floor was covered in them on how they are implementing many “I quickly found another project at an animal excrement. of the areas we discussed. GCU’s orphanage, which was challenging and “Another volunteer student and I involvement in the project is extremely rewarding,” said Stephanie. “Changing my decided to raise money from friends and valuable.” plan meant I was open to opportunities and, family at home to build a floor. We arranged Dougie added: “The Students’ the experiences I had as a result of that, and to have it built, get their toilet fixed and Association was delighted to be asked to the things I was able to do, were a thousand repaired their pipe so they could have get involved. The University creates links times better than if I had followed the running water. The family was so grateful; it globally and it was wonderful to have an original project.” was everything they needed. Having got a opportunity to speak directly with decision As well as working in the orphanage, chance, the children are now raising money makers at these institutions and to have Stephanie helped build a classroom and for their family by collecting bottles and input into the future experiences of students taught English to children with HIV. But the scrap metal. around the world.”

22 ethos. While camping in the outback was enjoyable, it was an eye opener, especially the spiders! “It was such a valuable experience, allowing us to develop our personal and social skills and expand our knowledge of our subject. I would recommend participating in an international placement as it is an opportunity you may never get again. We are so grateful for the KAR Scholarship for giving us this wonderful experience that will enhance our future career prospects.”

SOUTH AFRICA Professor James Somerville, Sabron Kalyolyo, Grace Sukasuka, Tony Kilpatrick, Malawi Ngwira

MALAWI Abdul Rahim Scholarships to work with The School of Engineering and Built Conservation Volunteers Australia on Environment has welcomed Malawian reforestation and conservation projects. students on a unique scholarship scheme. “So many of Australia’s native trees have GCU and city housing association ng been displaced by invasive weeds or cleared homes are supporting Sabron Kalyolyo and for farming and we worked across the Grace Sukasuka in their studies in MSc country trying to redress that,” said International Project Management and MSc Suzanne. “For example, in Cairns, we Quantity Surveying. The University and ng worked with mahogany gliders. Much of homes signed a unique agreement with the their habitat has been destroyed by High Commissioner of Malawi last August cyclones and, as the trees are stripped to support the scholarships. away, the weeds take over. It is the first time a university and a UK “We created a home for the gliders. We GCU’s relationship with South Africa’s housing association have teamed up to offer also worked to rehabilitate a rainforest in Transnet Freight Rail was showcased at The sponsorship to the country’s students. the hope that it would once again be Commonwealth Games Baton Relay Trade The Department of Construction and recognised as a national park. We also Reception. Surveying’s Professor James Sommerville helped to create rainforest corridors to The event was hosted by UK Trade and said: “We are delighted to welcome Sabron allow animals such as endangered tree Investment and Scottish Development and Grace to the GCU community and to kangaroos and koalas to migrate and move International in Johannesburg. further demonstrate our commitment to around naturally and safely away from British High Commissioner Judith help Malawi build capacity.” roads. The work was rigorous — but we McGregor highlighted the partnership in a And School staff have collected 1000 knew it wouldn’t be easy and it was speech at the event, which was attended by textbooks as part of a drive to equip fantastic to return to some of the areas just GCU’s Director of Business Academies Malawi’s The Polytechnic, University of a few weeks later and see the impact.” Fiona Stewart-Knight, pictured at the Malawi, and Mzuzu University with reception. The event celebrated the arrival much-needed resources. in South Africa of the Games baton (above). The collection was led by Lecturer GCU delivers Africa’s first railways Malawi Ngwira. management degree to Transnet staff. “I feel profoundly grateful to SEBE senior management and staff for their support,” he said. “This will render incalculable help to OMAN young men and women who will treasure Caledonian College of Engineering has been these resources.” awarded the International Prize for Best College at The European Business Assembly’s Summit of Leaders Science and AUSTRALIA Education conference in Oxford. More than School of Engineering and Built Environment 150 vice chancellors, deans, academics and students Suzanne McDougall and Lorna Lorna (above, left) said: “It was amazing business leaders from institutions across Coleman have been helping regenerate to get hands-on experience of the areas we the Middle East Europe, Africa and Far East Australia’s native habitat. have been studying and actually make a met at the conference, at which the College The third-year Environmental difference to the environment. We camped was also shortlisted in the ‘Best Campus’ Management students were awarded Khalid on the project and got immersed in the and ‘Best Academic website’ categories.

23 PLAYLIST FOR LIFE

Music to remember ?

Roisin-Alana Di Giacomo ighty-five year old Harry hears the and PhD student Anna Paisley, are meets the GCU academics Efamiliar words of The Commodores combining their expertise to drive the work song ‘Once, Twice, Three Times a Lady’ and of the charity forward in understanding how who are using music as a starts to sing to his wife Margaret, who is music can enrich the experience of those way to reconnect holding his hand. She joins in and they finish with dementia and their families. dementia patients with the song together. It’s an experience “Harry was regressing right back, and I their loved ones Margaret thought they would never share thought he was absolutely gone from me,” again after Harry was diagnosed with Margaret says, as she sits with Harry dementia. listening to music. “But not now, he’s back.” A specially compiled collection of their It’s the music of their life, a collection of favourite songs, including those from when songs from the past which have been they honeymooned in Malta in the seventies chosen to evoke memories, helping him to and listened to Pavarotti, is, as Margaret remember who he was and is. For Margaret, says, “bringing Harry back to her”. it brings Harry back to her. Harry is one of 800,000 people living The music isn’t a cure, Harry still has with dementia in the UK. severe dementia, but through his personal Dr Gianna Cassidy Now researchers and experts at GCU are playlist he is able to find a connection with looking at how the power of music can be his wife. used to help people with dementia, and Dr Cassidy, an award-winning expert in their loved ones, as part of a collaboration music psychology in the School of with writer, broadcaster and GCU Honorary Engineering and Built Environment and a Graduate Dr Sally Magnusson and her trustee and advisor to the charity, explains: charity, Playlist for Life. Music psychologist “Music is a fundamental part of our identity and lecturer in Interactive Entertainment and our individual relationship with music is Design Dr Gianna Cassidy, together with important to those on the dementia journey. Andy Lowndes research fellow and lecturer Andy Lowndes Research is highlighting the power of

24 dementia. The success of this national Songs, more than campaign led to the charity’s founder Dr Magnusson seeking his expertise. anything else, never “It’s not just about keeping people fed, lost their magical watered and clean,” said Andy. “It’s about “ recognising who they are as a person. It’s capacity to restore to about getting to know the Harrys and the her a sense of Margarets. It’s what you see; it’s the twinkle in their eyes. Watching Harry and Margaret, identity. you can see they are looking at each other, on the GCU cake, as she runs our social really looking at each other. He is singing to media and iPod donation drives.” her again and, despite the tragedy of what Sally describes her mother’s connection is happening to them, all is not forgotten.” with hymns, Scottish ballads and war songs Andy’s passion for caring for older as what kept her mother, the lively people began more than 30 years ago. columnist and writer, with them. Though he insists he isn’t a voyeur in this, “Songs, more than anything else, never recognising that as people are now living lost their magical capacity to restore to her longer than ever before, the stakes are high a sense of identity and to bring words for each and every one of us — with one in fluently, often joyfully, to her tongue,” she three people over 65 predicted to die with says. some form of dementia. The joy that music brings, even as the It’s a global phenomenon with numbers disease wreaks havoc on its victims, is a spiralling and expected to rise to 65.7 testimony which more and more people are million by 2030. The cost of caring for witnessing. people with dementia is currently £23billion As Margaret explains: “When Harry a year to the UK — more than heart disease hears the music, he knows there’s been and cancer combined. It is, in fact, the something in his past that it relates to. disease of women, as 67% of sufferers are “This is the tune we used to dance to female due to their greater life expectancy, when we went to the Singles’ Club — that’s though undoubtedly men, too, succumb. when I fell for you,” she says to him. The idea for Playlist for Life was born “Aye, that’s true,” Harry replies — and out of Dr Magnusson’s personal story, for a time, all is not lost. personalised music to help dementia having nursed her mother Mamie Baird sufferers connect with their identity and through dementia. loved ones, and even slow the rate of Describing this as the biggest story of decline. With dementia arguably becoming her life, Sally penned the book Where the health and social care challenge of the Memories Go, charting her mother’s decline. 21st century, music can be a tool which is In this, Sally, in journalistic fashion, weaves used to improve the quality of life for those research and medical findings alongside the living with dementia.” reality of her mother’s journey with The positive impact music can have on dementia. dementia sufferers, their responsiveness Inspired by the work of Dan Cohen at and mood, is seen as a human intervention Music and Memory, a New York charity, which could help many more sufferers like Sally set up Playlist for Life and, having Harry. With the support of partners travelled more than 3000 miles, she then including Alzheimer Scotland, GCU will be discovered the work of Andy Lowndes and at the centre of a new network of Gianna Cassidy on her doorstep, in what researchers which, it is hoped, will help lead she describes as a serendipitous moment. the field in research into personalised music “I couldn’t believe that there were two intervention in dementia. people working on innovative solutions to For Andy Lowndes, who has spent a dementia care in GCU, a university to which lifetime working with people with dementia, I already have deep connections through it’s about looking after the individual. A my father, the late former Chancellor trained nurse and research fellow within the Magnus Magnusson. I thought this School of Health and Life Sciences, Andy is meant to be. Then I was became an educator working on a major introduced to Anna Paisley, study which used football memorabilia to whose PhD is on music and improve the wellbeing of men with dementia, which is the icing Dr Sally Magnusson

25 Shining a light on a

A human fascination with death has led to a swelling of visitors at some the world’s most notorious battlefields. As the centenary of the Great War approaches, Peter John Meiklem talks to Professor John Lennon to find out what this Dark Tourism means for the wider industry

he battlefield names are now part of are sites of mass death, atrocity, and they anniversary saw a jump in visitor numbers Tpopular memory: the Somme, Ypres, have become an essential part of the and interest. It’s driven by media. Whenever Flanders Field, sites of unprecedented mass attraction of that part of northern Europe. JFK is shown on terrestrial TV you get a slaughter and suffering. Yet, as the They have become part of the tourist gaze.” jump in figures. There’s more interest in centenary of the Great War is marked Tourism bosses in Belgium say they sites thanks to reports, newspaper features across Europe this year, tourism leaders in expect more than 2 million extra visitors and the kind of programme you’ve recently France and Belgium are preparing for an over the next four years, motivated by the seen from Jeremy Paxman on the BBC.” influx of visitors from across the world, pull of sites such as Ypres. In France, the So, when modern lives are stressful and millions of people who, despite the grim French Tourism Development Agency wearisome, and the sun lounger is calling, backdrop, have to see for themselves. (FTDA), say that 3.5 million French visitors why do holidaymakers head for places such In 1996, Professor John Lennon, director travelled to World War One memorial sites as the Somme, where more than 1.5 million of GCU’s Moffat Centre for Travel and in 2012, with that number expected to grow people lost their lives? Tourism Business Development, coined a exponentially over 2014. “There are two reasons. It’s either as a term to explain the enduring fascination of Professor Lennon, who is also Vice-Dean primary purpose of the visit, like a coach such terrible places. He called it Dark in the Glasgow School for Business and tour that specialises in battlefield tours. You Tourism, a theory to explain the attraction Society, is not surprised by the spike in get the education crowd; you get the old of tourism hotspots from the street where visitor numbers following a well-established soldiers and the general interest parties: JFK was assassinated to the ‘killing fields’ of trend in the study of tourism attractions. current soldiers, reservists and people who Cambodia’s Khmer Rouge. “Key dates definitely thrust visitation up. are interested in history. There’s a massive “Are the battlefields of the First World For example, the previous example I can interest. War dark tourism sites? Absolutely. They give is the Kennedy assassination. The “The second reason people visit is that

26 DARK TOURISM dark centenary

it’s part of the things that people do when history of the war through satirical ’80s TV battlefields, play a similar role to the they’re on holiday. Most holiday sit-com Blackadder Goes Forth is a case in films, articles and television programmes. experiences are about contrasts. We live point. “Exploring this through my subject, busy active lives and tourism works that “What’s interesting about [Blackadder tourism, is quite interesting — what’s way too. actor] Rowan Atkinson’s work has been the tourism got to do with history? Well, “People want an experience and a little relative these sites have become historical totems; bit of that is voyeuristic — they want to see sophistication of they’re the sites people go to with their where death happened. Humans are the audience in travel book and with very little historical fascinated by death because it’s something understanding the research and rely on these sites to get an we all have in common and mass killing and parody. The reason understanding of what happened here. man’s ability to do evil unto man never fails people know the These tragic sites require a voice; a voice to fascinate readers, viewers or visitors.” name General that’s accurate and appropriate and value Part of this attraction, Professor Lennon Hague is not free.” explains, is the place World War One still because of Michael He says that voice can cut across history Professor John Lennon occupies within popular culture. It is not Gove and his policies, and tourism and offer an interesting angle only the brute fact of mass death which but mass communication through things on a country’s contemporary politics: “I see attracts people, but the thousands of like Blackadder. I’m all for it as it keeps the it as important that we use it as a lens to stories, told and retold in film, television and memory, and the horror, of the war alive.” look at countries like Rwanda, Cambodia, literature. The recent stramash when The sites themselves, such as the British and Vietnam to see how they’re dealing Westminster Education Secretary Michael and Commonwealth troops memorial at with their tragic past and what that says Gove accused teachers of illustrating the Menin Gate or the network of Somme about the government and its control >>>

27 Shining a light on a Dark Centenary continued from page 27

and ideology. The busiest site in Embracing the Cambodia is Angkor Wat, but after that it’s the killing fields in Pnohm Penh. The A host of activities took government was starving the site of place at GCU to mark funds because it was all about covering Commonwealth Day as plans up the past. It’s all about ideology, and get under way for the Games. tourism has a place there — if the sites are deteriorating then there might be Here are just some of them ... nothing left. The Watergate hotel is an important site in American history but it s the city races towards its summer of is not commemorated in any way Asport, GCU is sending its own team of whatsoever — why is that, do you think?” students and staff to the Commonwealth Since coining the phrase in ‘96 — Games. when it first came from a paper on JFK’s From podiatry to electronics, computing death called A Fascination with to new scholarships, the University has Assassination — and publishing the book embraced the opportunity to showcase its Dark Tourism: The Attraction of Death and commitment to academic excellence and Disaster with co-writer Malcolm Foley in employability, diversity and the common 2000, the Dark Tourism field has taken a good. life of its own, with potential PhD The celebrations started at GCU’s students contacting Professor Lennon Commonwealth Day showcase attended by monthly and the University of Central Councillor Archie Graham, Depute Leader Lancashire setting up the Institute for of Glasgow City Council and Executive Dark Tourism Research. Member for the Commonwealth Games. Professor Lennon though, is keen to Professor Lesley Sawers, Vice-Principal distance himself from taking such a and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Business narrow position on such a huge multi- Development, Enterprise and Innovation, national industry as tourism. Although said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to Dark Tourism is an engaging idea — one celebrate the Games coming to Glasgow capable of explaining the attraction of the and to showcase our work with countries First World War and Kennedy across the Commonwealth.” Assassination simultaneously — it’s only Technology, media and support a tiny part of the Moffat Centre’s work. professionals, who are responsible for Changer award. Academics and students “A lot of what we do is utilitarian; it’s providing the infrastructure and expertise to from the School of Engineering and Built to do with business planning and ensure the smooth running of the Games, Environment, with the support of the business development of firms and have been keen to tap into the skills of GCU Caledonian Club, are developing digital companies. Dark Tourism has helped us academics and students. GCU’s relationship skills projects for Glasgow schools, built with publicity, but would I earn much with The Host Broadcaster Training around Commonwealth Games-related from it? No, I wouldn’t. Occasionally we Initiative (HBTI) will see Audio Technology activities. get the odd commission but it’s less than with Electronics and Multimedia students Lecturer Mandy Abbott is the Clinical 5 per cent of turnover. It’s very good for working with official host broadcasters, Lead for Podiatry at the Games. She has PR, it keeps me sane.” Sunset+Vine and Global Television. The responsibility for recruitment, training and collaboration was established by Senior setting the standards of care for the Lecturer Patrick Quinn, SVGTV and Creative podiatry service that will support the Loop, Scotland’s talent development hub for international sports stars in the Athletes’ the creative media industries. Village. She is looking forward to A further 50 students from computing showcasing the innovative equipment used programmes will work with NVT, the official at GCU. Technology Services Integrator, to provide “We will be part of the medical services wired and wireless connectivity for every provided at the Polyclinic, the main medical Games venue. centre,” said Mandy. “If an athlete needs a Gaming for Glasgow, a GCU custom-made insole (orthotic), we can scan collaboration with the Celtic FC Foundation, them in the Polyclinic and the orthotic can World War One memorabillia kindly loaned by The has already earned a coveted Game be manufactured/printed on the same day Royal Highland Fuseliers Regimental Museum

28 COMMONWEALTH Commonwealth

Professor Gillies and Councillor Archie Graham, Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council

at GCU using our 3D printer. This process, from a Commonwealth in normal clinical practice, usually requires a nation during the few days, so using GCU’s facilities should 2014/2015 academic provide a fast, effective service.” year. The University has well-established Honorary Graduate academic and business relationships with Sir Craig Reedie CBE, institutions in fellow Commonwealth Vice President of the nations. As a founding partner of the International Olympic Grameen Caledonian College of Nursing in Committee and Dhaka, GCU is helping to raise nursing President of the World standards in Bangladesh. Anti-Doping Authority, has In South Africa, GCU is working with The had an advisory role in the run University of Johannesburg and the up to the Glasgow 2014. Institution of Railway Operators to deliver “I hope they bring the the BSc in Railway Operations Management same kind of buzz as the by Learning Contract to South Africa’s London Olympics,” he said, during largest freight rail organisation, Transnet his recent visit to GCU. “We want to run a Freight Rail. very good sports competition — full houses, Glasgow 2014 has also inspired the good athletes and some sunshine would be development of GCU’s Gold, Silver and nice too.” Bronze Common Weal Scholarships, to be Turn to page 30 to read about the awarded to eligible postgraduate students reCYCLE project >>>

29 COMMONWEALTH

Could your bike change a life?

GCU student and weightlifter Haris Ansari, who’s preparing to compete in the Commonwealth Games, helps give the reCYCLE project a lift Linda Robertson reports on GCU’s 2014 Games Legacy project

CU has set the wheels in motion for a equipment and maintenance skills and will equipped to sustain them so we’ll also Gproject where bikes can transform also help SiMY members achieve their Duke provide bike maintenance training and have lives. of Edinburgh Awards. secured support from The Bike Station so reCYCLE takes unwanted bicycles, “It’s a beautifully simple idea but it will we’ll bring the young people on to campus refurbishes them if required and donates have a profound effect on the young to learn in a university environment.” them to young Glaswegians who need them. people,” says Neil Pratt, team leader at Neil says SiMY will also run sessions The project aims to open up a world of SiMY. “As well as all the health benefits and following the bike maintenance training: “It opportunity for the teenagers, whether it’s getting people outdoors, providing young means the young people have the tools to setting them on the path to a healthier people with their own bikes means that fix their own punctures or sort their own lifestyle, helping them learn new skills or they’ve got a form of transport and freedom chains. They’ll always have us to fall back on providing an affordable mode of transport that they wouldn’t normally have.” but it will make them more independent.” for job interviews. ReCYCLE is calling upon GCU students, ReCYCLE is being backed by Tiso, Evans reCYCLE is the University’s official staff and the wider community to donate Cycles and Dell who are running the Glasgow 2014 Legacy Project and is being bikes as well as outdoor clothing and safety donation appeal in their Glasgow stores and run in tandem with SiMY Community equipment to ensure the SiMY cyclists are offices. Development, a Townhead-based equipped for all conditions. “The team would welcome additional organisation which helps young people and “We’re reaching out to University staff, support from local outdoor companies to their families achieve their hopes and students and alumni — do you have bikes or achieve our aims,” says Susan. “If you think ambitions for themselves and their outdoor clothing that you could donate to you can help with new bike parts and community. the project?” says Susan Grant, GCU outdoor clothing, get in touch.” Through reCYCLE, GCU has pledged to Community and Public Engagement Officer. If you have a bike you would like to equip 15 young people, aged between 15 “If we’re going to give young people donate, please email [email protected] and 17, with bikes, helmets, cycling bikes, we want to make sure they’re or call 0141 273 1486.

30 CAREER DEVELOPMENT Choose your own path

Director of People Services Alex Killick takes a look at how the ‘one-stop shop’ for staff career development and training opportunities will help GCU become one of the sector’s leading employers

n just 18 months, the University has face training and in-house courses. It is delivered to managers across the University Itransformed its approach to providing linked up to the University library giving to support them in their roles and opportunities for staff with the launch of immediate access to e-books, and includes encourage good practice for the benefit of Career Development, an online hub that information on mentoring, networking, all staff. provides clear guidelines on how to make work-based learning, international exchange Consultation with colleagues across career aspirations a reality. opportunities and language learning. GCU was vital to the development of the “Shortly after I arrived at GCU two years “We are saying, ‘here are courses you current People Strategy, says Alex. ago, the findings of the 2011 staff survey can book, video services, courses we “On the back of the 2011 survey, we held came out. One of the key issues was the recommend, online general IT training and 45 conversations with 450 members of need for clear information about career others.’ This way, staff can take ownership staff to inform discussions with a specially development opportunities,” said Alex. for their own their development and go and established steering group. We welcomed External consultants worked with the find out what it is they need. It is a pull trade union representatives to the group Directorate of People Services to develop rather than a push – staff don’t have to and we had academics, managers and HR Career Pathways, an online resource hosted make use of the material available but we representatives in the mix. on the GCUYou portal that can be accessed would encourage them to take a look at We also engaged with external and used by all staff in every role across the what is there, should they want to develop stakeholders who are renowned in the field. University in Glasgow and London. It has their career options.” All that background was valuable in helping been designed to support all staff, including He added: “We used the 2011 staff us set out the key priorities for the newcomers to GCU, those who have survey as a starting point for a conversation University as an employer,” he explained. already gained wide experience in their about issues such as career development “The staff survey results were fairly current role and those who have just taken opportunities. It’s important to fix things mixed but one that particularly stood out up a new post, and includes a career guide, that don’t seem to be working. However, it’s was the fact that just 49 per cent of an online questionnaire that will generate a equally important to focus on what is respondents said they would recommend personalised report, and a Development working. For example, the University’s GCU as a good place to work. I was Library. A career development plan commitment to the common good clearly surprised when I first saw that data. I didn’t template, collaboratively designed with binds us together as an institution — 12 feel it was a true reflection of the GCU LEAD and The Graduate School, is months after the staff survey we ran a pulse organisation I had come to, which had a also available to download from the portal. survey in which 91 per cent of staff real good buzz about it, so I was pleased This template can be used to capture responses were positive in terms of their when the pulse survey 12 months outputs from career development belief in GCU’s For The Common Good later showed an increase to 65 per cent discussions. mission. That is an advantage other of staff would recommend GCU as a place “We are confident this resource will institutions don’t always have.” to work. But that figure should, and will provide clarity for people in relation to Career Development, including The be, higher. career options at GCU,” said Alex. “The Development Library, is one element of the “There have been changes across the Development Library has staff learning and University’s commitment to its People University since the pulse survey in 2012 development resources on its virtual Strategy. Others include the People and I am hopeful that those will be reflected shelves, including work activities, face-to- Passport programme which is being in the 2014 staff survey.”

31 LEARNING AND TEACHING

SimMan’s reality check As part of our series on GCU’s Strategy for Learning, lecturer Liz Simpson tells us about a high-tech approach to real-world problem solving, which took the form of the University’s first mass simulation lecture. Roisin Eadie reports

From left: Fraser McLeish (Blended Learning Technologist), Fiona MacLeod (Nurse Lecturer — Child), Liz Simpson (Nurse Lecturer — Adult), Gayle Mackie (Simulation Technician), Andy Whiteford (AV Technician)

hen Liz Simpson and her colleagues “The positive feedback and a raised threatening injuries, we checked his Winjected a lecture with a dose of awareness among students of their areas of GCS (coma scale), AVPU (level of adrenalin-fuelled reality, little did they know strength and weakness was a good indicator responsiveness) and performed a top-to- that days later two students would be of the mass simulation lecture’s impact. toe assessment. We then monitored him putting those lessons into practice when However, days later, we found out just how until we could provide a handover to they rushed to the aid of an unconscious successful it had been when two of our paramedics.” man. third-year Adult Nursing students spotted a Days earlier, Ross and Grant and two Liz, Fiona Macleod (Nurse Lecturer man lying unconscious in Buchanan Bus other students had been plucked out at — Child); Gayle Mackie (Simulation Station.” random to work on SimMan 3G, the Technician who is engaged on the Grant Oliver, 29, from Glasgow, takes up high-tech patient simulator manikin used supporting student learning module the story. “We were beside Buchanan Bus during the first mass simulation exercise, supported by AcceleRATE in GCU Lead); Station when I spotted a man on the ground which took place in the Deeprose Lecture Andy Whiteford (AV Technician) and Fraser with blood around his mouth. Ross and I Theatre. It was just like any other day when McLeish (Blended Learning Technologist) rushed over and identified ourselves as the 250 nursing students filed in — until the worked together to devise and implement student nurses. Before we knew it, we had doors burst open and SimMan was wheeled GCU’s first mass simulation exercise for blue gloves on and were taking charge.” in on a trolley. “This patient is deteriorating 250 nursing students. Ross Thompson, 23, from Strathaven, fast — what do we need to do?” Liz “We wanted to deliver a student continued: “I began to assess the patient demanded. From that moment on, each and experience which was interactive and using the DRs ABCDE mnemonic while every student had life or death decisions to showcased the support services and Grant asked witnesses what had happened make if SimMan was to be saved. excellent new simulation facilities we have and liaised with the 999 operator. Once we Simulation is recognised as an effective in the School of Health and Life Sciences,” had assessed that the casualty was method of allowing healthcare professionals said Liz. breathing and had no immediate life- to practise skills in a safe environment and

32 View from here

WHO? My name is Diane Joyce. I work as a Senior Lecturer in CCIS, SEBE. My teaching responsibility is for Graphic Design for Digital Media in the Creative Technologies discipline. Students Ross Thompson and Grant Oliver

WHAT? provided a ‘rescuer’s eye view’ of SimMan’s The Integration of client, industry- condition and treatment. At the close of the led and simulated projects within poll, instant feedback was provided, the the curriculum provides real-world correct answer given, and the appropriate experience with clients, private care was given to the patient. and third sector, and industry. I am “It was incredibly labour intensive to get applying it within design project-based everything in place for that first lecture but modules where students work to set we knew that subsequent sessions would briefs for formative or summative be less onerous to prepare for,” said Liz. assessments. I need to maintain “The student feedback was extremely strong links and communication with positive — it can be viewed at industry partners, prospective clients #gcusimulation. Some students said they and partners within the University. now knew they had to go back to the books, This teaching method satisfies several while others felt it gave them confidence in Strategy for Learning principles, their knowledge.” including Engaged Learning, Divergent After the session, students practised Thinking and Real World Problem their skills in smaller groups of four or five. Solving.

SO WHAT? Students gain-real world experience when the briefs set have context and They were filmed so they could review their purpose, and clients/industry partners performance using a structured reflection offer valuable feedback and insights. tool. This continued throughout the theory Graphic Design students benefit develop decision-making skills. But it is component of each module to help develop from a wider knowledge of a range of considered most effective with small technical and non-technical skills. subjects as they interpret content into groups, which creates challenges for the Liz is delighted to report that abstracts meaningful, visual communication nursing department which has large class submitted to the Scottish Clinical Skills for audiences. Projects include a book numbers. Liz, a graduate of the Postgradute Network and Association for Simulated cover design project in collaboration Certificate in Learning and Teaching Higher Practice in Healthcare (SCSN ASPiH) with a Holocaust survivor’s daughter, Education, and the team piloted the Scottish Symposium and Children’s and a website and branding exercise for a simulation lecture with 50 child field Young People’s Nursing International sushi company brief led by the owner student nurses before delivering it to the Conference have been accepted. of a design agency, and working with 250 adult field students as part of the And what of the man who collapsed at The Caledonian Club on a digital theory component of the Year 3 module. Buchanan Bus Station? Grant and Ross hope book for children. Student feedback is Ross and Grant were chosen to be part of he went on to make a full recovery. positive and applicants are impressed the clinical emergency team whose role was “We never did hear how he got on but he by the industry-linked aspects. to assess the patient, feedback on their was able to communicate with us just findings then administer treatment. before he was put into the ambulance. He NOW WHAT? The remaining students used hand-held was in safe hands with the paramedics,” Client, industry-led and simulated clickers to vote on the care needed. Their said Ross. “I felt in control throughout. The projects will continue to be used within responses were recorded and immediately simulation lecture gave us the confidence project/practice-based modules and I analysed. TurningPoint software was used and skills to assert ourselves and take will seek diverse briefs from partners to integrate ‘voting slides’ within the charge. We focused on treating the casualty that satisfy the learning outcomes of PowerPoint presentation and a ‘seven- and communicating with each other.” the programme and modules. Working second countdown timer’ illustrated how Grant added: “We’ve spent a lot of time with industry partners can enhance the quickly decisions needed to be made. The and training on emergency responding, and learning experience and offers CPD as vital-signs monitor was projected on to a this was an opportunity to implement those academics learn from industry. large screen and a hand-held camera skills.”

33 BACK STORY

History is in the airwaves

Who are you and what’s your day job? Ben Shepherd, Reader in History in the Glasgow School for Business and Society.

What’s your Back Story? I’m a presenter on Subcity Radio, fronting the bi-monthly show ‘The Music of Time’. The show started in September 2013 and is part music, part history: I tell the story of a particular historical event or period, accompanied by music that reflects what was happening at the time. The musical genres and the historical topics covered are very varied. The music may be influenced or inspired by the time; for instance, 1970s Afrocentric jazz-funk inspired by Ancient Egypt. Or it may be from the time; for instance, the Vietnam War = Horrible History, Great Soundtrack! The next edition, to be broadcast 4 to 5pm on Sunday, May 18, will be titled ‘The Fall of Apartheid:

South Africa, 1976-1994’, and will feature Ben Shepherd: uses power of music to bring history to life lots of music from that part of the world. All editions of the show can be accessed: a brilliant job and are a pleasure to work accompanies it. I’ll also be talking to GCU www.facebook.com/themusicoftime with. The most recent show, ‘From Redcoat colleagues and support departments about www.mixcloud.com/themusicoftime to Khaki: The British Soldier in the ways in which we can further publicise Nineteenth Century’, was particular fun. It certain editions by tying them in with Why do you do it? featured a guest historian — hopefully the particular historical anniversaries, such as It’s a great way of combining my historical first of several — Dr. Annie Tindley this year’s First World War centenary. research skills with a major outside interest. (Dundee, formerly GCU), who provided lots I’ve got very diverse musical tastes. I also of good on-air banter and expert insight. What has been your favourite wanted somehow to get back into on air moment? presenting, having enjoyed doing it as an What are your ambitions Programme 1: ‘The African-American Civil undergrad at the University of East Anglia. for the radio show? Despite the Norwich connection, Alan Rights Movement, 1954-1963’, from 30.41 Partridge is definitely not a role model! We promote the show on Facebook, and onward. We segued from a powerful 1961 broadcast it on Mixcloud as well as on interview with a civil rights worker who’d Does it help you in your daily Subcity, at Glasgow University. We’re also been beaten up by racist thugs, straight into investigating other avenues to bring it to a Ben E. King’s ‘Stand By Me’ from the life at home and at work? wider audience. Plus I’m keen to explore following year. By linking the two and Insofar as it makes my existence that bit potential educational benefits, maybe understanding the background, you begin to more varied and interesting, I’d say it re-recording some shows for school use. hear the song’s lyrics as a civil rights enhances my life generally. Researching and There’s every chance school kids will worker’s call to his fellows to stand together preparing each show is huge fun. Show engage with History all the more once they against all the dangers they face. Moving producers Dave Gillies and Nina Doherty do realise what a great soundtrack stuff, and a great radio moment!

34 WWW.THECALEDONIAN.AC.UK 2nd in UK for international student satisfaction (ISB, summer 2013)

At GCU, our staff are committed to offering an excellent student experience. That is why we have been ranked 2nd in the UK for international student satisfaction in the latest International Student Barometer survey.

Our dedication has also placed GCU: •  1st in Scotland for international student support • 1st in Scotland for accommodation costs and visa advice • 4th in the UK and 2nd in Scotland for learning experience and student recommendation.

To find out more, visitwww.gcu.ac.uk 96.2% of GCU graduates go on to employment or further study1 GCU boosts Scotland’s economy by £444million2

10,000 jobs are supported by GCU2

£30million Glasgow campus transformation under way

1st Scottish university to open in London

1st UK university to launch in New York

17,000 students in Glasgow from more than 100 countries More than 120,000 graduates in 123 countries

Source 1. DLHE Survey 2012 2. BiGGAR Economics 2012