Sheila’s unique methodology for creating powerful learning spaces is the culmination of innovative professional practice. Her pedagogy is characterised by research-embedded teaching, empathy, authenticity, emotion and inclusivity. In collaboration with her community of practice, including learners, her methodology, known as Quaid-Thoughtful Approach, is a value-driven, portable and transferable method for participatory arts based action learning.
The impact and depth of learning achieved with her approach is evident in external funding for development, its application in postdoctoral training, knowledge exchange, CPD for professionals and the increasing numbers of professional educators seeking CPD at her events. The method has also been impactful as a radio programme, reaching wider audiences.
Sheila has developed this unique and impactful method for creating powerful learning environments. She successfully bridged gaps between academic social science, art and community through giving space for voices often not heard and placing art, children, the environment and the future at the heart of her learning and teaching technique. In partnerships with her national network of creative pedagogues in arts, social science and professional practice, she continuously learns and develops practice and embraces sensitive topics, difficult moments in teaching identities and emotions.
Central to her work was giving others a ‘voice’ through which their individuality could be recognised and valued. She quickly established effective mechanisms of dialogue for students, creating powerful learning environments and a sense of belonging that gave students and community learners confidence in their ability to contribute to teaching sessions.
Sheila’s work has consistently integrated approaches to teaching sociology that are transferable across discipline and professional divides. She continuously demonstrates innovation and creativity: in her classroom, for example, she allows freedom for learners. They explore and choose their own sources whilst she embeds the use of cinematic films and visual resources such as art, film, TV and advertising to engage and motivate students to reach theoretical depth through social learning. Visual arts film and personal biographies and interdisciplinary techniques drive this new methodology.
Her professional passion for interdisciplinary and arts-based pedagogy is consistently driving her creation of participatory arts and social science events reaching audiences nationally through varieties of media.