Earlier this month, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) announced the renewal of the Disciplinary Excellence in Learning, Teaching and Assessment (DELTA) Award for three teams who have demonstrated sustained and strategic enhancement of teaching and learning within their disciplines.
As part of this recognition, we spoke with each of the DELTA Award recipients to explore the motivations, approaches, and collaborative practices behind their success. Representing diverse contexts, from marketing and entrepreneurship to pharmacy technician education, the teams shared their reflections on the DELTA process, the impact on students, and advice for others aiming to embed a culture of enhancement.
Munster Technological University – Department of Marketing and International Business
Team Lead: Elaine O’Brien
We represent the marketing discipline within the Department of Marketing & International Business at Munster Technological University, a progressive academic team committed to enhancing student learning through innovative, industry-informed teaching and assessment practices. Our team comprises 23 academic staff with many student partners. Within the team we have five component leads with specialist expertise across authentic assessment, curriculum design, academic integrity, professional development, and digital learning, all aligned with the DELTA Framework. Together, we champion inclusive, real-world learning experiences for our diverse student body.
Pictured above are recipients of the DELTA (Disciplinary Excellence in Learning, Teaching and Assessment) Award from Munster Technological University (MTU). Photographed at MTU’s Bishopstown Campus upon receiving the award. Pictured (L–R): Paul Wade, Sheree Borge, Dr Marian Hurley, Dr Katie Power, Elaine O’Brien, Dr Ana Cruz-Garcia, Maria Gilsenan, Clara French, Zara O’Connor, Zahid Aslam, Cliona Moynihan, Anna Horan, Dr Máire O’Sullivan, and Conor Kelleher. Photo: Joleen Cronin
Key Initiatives:
Our success stems from the development of our AI³ framework where we are focused on embedding academic integrity through assessment with industry in a GenAI era. Our authentic assessment practices run throughout our marketing programmes and are closely aligned with industry challenges and global business realities. We have developed a collaborative, student-centred DELTA action plan that integrates academic integrity, digital fluency, and sustainability into teaching and assessment. Our strategic use of the SMART goals and sustained professional development ensured that innovation was supported by structure and reflection.
Impact on Students:
Students have benefitted from more engaging, relevant, and inclusive learning experiences. Through authentic assessment, they apply theory to real-world contexts, boosting employability and critical thinking. By integrating industry collaboration, academic integrity, and digital tools, we’ve helped students navigate complex challenges and transitions with greater confidence and success. Moving forward, we plan to build on this strong foundation and provide more structure and scaffolding throughout the stages of our marketing programmes.
Lessons Learned:
We’ve learned the importance of sustained collaboration, structured planning, and reflective practice. Taking stock of our strengths and identifying areas for growth—particularly in response to evolving technologies like AI—has been essential. We’ve also seen how critical it is to align educational innovation with both student needs and institutional priorities such as developing digital literacy, responsible marketing strategies and global outlook, future ready graduates as part of the MTU Shared Vision 2022 – 2027.
Advice to Others:
Start with a clear vision and build a strong, multi-skilled team. Use the DELTA Framework to guide your planning and ensure your initiatives are firstly student-focused and also evidence-informed. Embrace collaboration, both within and outside your educational institution, engage with external stakeholders, and be prepared to critically reflect on your practices. Most importantly, view the process as an opportunity for genuine enhancement—not just a submission.
What the DELTA Award Means:
“Winning the DELTA Award affirms our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in student-centred teaching, learning and assessment—it’s a powerful endorsement of our vision to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. It provides structure and a focus to all aspects of our work, making a meaningful impact on staff, students and the wider marketing community.”
Technological University Dublin – Pharmacy Technician Programme
Team Lead: Dr Tao Zhang
We are the programme team for the Higher Certificate in Science in Pharmacy Technician Studies (TU654) at the School of Food Science and Environmental Health, Technological University Dublin (Grangegorman campus). Our discipline spans both pharmacy and healthcare. Our team is a multidisciplinary group, comprising scientists, pharmacists, and professional services staff, all united by a shared commitment to delivering high-quality, student-centred education.
Members of TU Dublin’s Pharmacy Technician Studies Programme Team – Row 1 (L to R): Dr Gemma Kinsella, Dr Abhrajyoti Tarafdar, Dr Julie Dunne, Jill Barrett, Kathryn Young, Dr Swarna Jaiswal, Dr Seana Hogan; Row 2 (L to R): Mary Therese McGrath, Dr David O’Connor, Dr Tao Zhang.
Key Initiatives:
Our enduring programme culture has been central to our success, built over nearly two decades of commitment, collaboration, and continuous innovation. Stakeholder engagement, particularly from our advisory panel, industry partners, students, and alumni, has been invaluable in shaping and refining the programme. Their insights ensure our curriculum remains relevant, responsive, and forward-thinking. Additionally, international collaboration has played a pivotal role. Collaborative projects with global partners have enabled us to adopt innovative educational practices, share best practices, and broaden the perspectives of both staff and students.
Impact on Students:
In 2024, we launched the “Alumni Sharing” initiative, conducting interviews with graduates to assess the long-term impact of our programme. We were inspired by the diverse career paths our graduates have pursued, ranging from pharmacy technicians in community and hospital settings to pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, biotechnologists (some holding PhDs), managers, and professionals in finance and business. Over 80% of interviewees highlighted that the programme had significantly boosted their confidence, both academically and professionally. This transformation demonstrates the effectiveness of our teaching, learning, and assessment approaches in equipping students with transferable skills and fostering a growth mindset.
Lessons Learned:
A significant lesson learned has been the importance of fostering a cohesive and inclusive programme culture. Maintaining strong connections between academic staff, our advisory panel, professional services, students, industry partners, and alumni, has proven essential for continuous improvement and success. Engagement and inclusivity ensure the programme remains responsive and adaptable, driving long-term success in an ever-changing professional environment.
Advice to Others:
If you or your team is considering applying for the DELTA Award – go for it! The process is immensely rewarding, offering an opportunity to reflect on the impact of your work and showcase your collective achievements. The DELTA Award recognises the dedication of everyone involved in your programme, from your students to the wider professional community. However, achieving success requires genuine collaboration, sustained commitment, and contributions from the entire team. It’s not just about submitting an application; it’s a journey that fosters shared purpose and pride.
What the DELTA Award Means:
“Receiving the DELTA Award for a third consecutive cycle (2018–2021, 2021–2024, and now 2025–2028) is an honour that reflects the sustained commitment, innovation, and care embedded in our programme culture. It energises our team to continue evolving and supporting student success in meaningful, lasting ways, driving both progress and shared vision.”
Munster Technological University – School of Business, Entrepreneurship Teaching and Learning Team
Team Lead: Dr Helen McGuirk
Our team of educators, researchers, students and support staff from across the School of Business, represent all those involved in entrepreneurship teaching, learning and assessment.
Winners of the DELTA (Disciplinary Excellence in Learning, Teaching and Assessment) Award – the Business Management and Accounting Team from Munster Technological University (MTU). Pictured: Trudie Murray, Rebecca Robinson, Akriti Chowdhury, Conor O’Callaghan, Breda Kenny, Helen McGuirk, Gerard O’Donovan, Dr Ana Cruz-Garcia, and Caroline O’Reilly. Photographed at the MTU Bishopstown Campus upon receiving their award. Photo: Joleen Cronin.
Key Initiatives:
Our constant drive to innovate and translate research to practice in how we design, deliver and assess the broad discipline of entrepreneurship was commended by the DELTA review panel. Our sustainable and inclusive approach to the use of technology, nature, industry and society in entrepreneurship education has led to increased engagement by students and contributes to our drive for relevant and responsible education across the University.
Impact on Students:
Our students benefit from the School’s commitment to excellence in how and what we teach and assess. The students’ learning experience have been greatly enhanced moving from ‘chalk and talk’ and exam based assessment to innovative learning using innovative approaches such a bio-mimicry (using nature in teaching), simulation, self-directed learning, technology and continuous assessments.
Lessons Learned:
The DELTA application process, while onerous, taking about a year and the strong commitment by the team, provides everyone involved with immense learning opportunities. Through the ‘Taking Stock’ and ‘Action Plan’ sections of the application, you learn about the excellent work going on in the discipline, colleagues’ commitment to their students, and the gaps in practice are easily identified.
Advice to Others:
Two points of advice: 1. Consider DELTA as a recognition of the team’s excellence in a discipline and a way to plan and develop for the future. 2. Give the process time, time to ‘Take Stock’, and value the informal conversations as well as the more formal surveys, focus groups etc., with students and colleagues in completing the application form.
What the DELTA Award Means:
“This coveted DELTA award recognises our commitment to excellence in entrepreneurship education at MTU, engaging students, staff and external stakeholders. Succeeding together, the School of Business entrepreneurship team continues to forge an applied and innovative approach to teaching, learning and assessment opportunities for students.”
Apply for the Next DELTA Award Cycle
Applications for the next DELTA Award cycle are now open. The DELTA Award, first launched in 2018 by the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, recognises discipline groups that demonstrate collective engagement with evidence-informed teaching and a commitment to continuous professional growth.
For more information or to start your application:
Learn more about the DELTA Award
