About
Alan Bain serves as Associate Professor in the School of Education at Charles Sturt University, where he focuses on addressing the complex challenge of improving learning and teaching across educational organizations. His career spans multiple continents with significant leadership roles in educational change initiatives.
His educational background includes a B Ed Dip Teach (SACAE), M Ed (UMaine), and Ed D (WMich). These qualifications have supported his extensive work in educational organizational development and reform.
Professor Bain's research centers on the theory and practice of educational organizational change, with particular expertise in technology-mediated transformation of educational institutions. His work bridges the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical implementation, focusing on creating self-organizing educational systems that can adapt and improve continuously. He has developed innovative approaches to school and university design that integrate curriculum innovation, human resource models, and physical learning spaces.
His recent scholarly output shows a clear trend toward evidence-based teacher preparation and inclusive education. The 2024 publications particularly emphasize designing effective teacher preparation programs grounded in research evidence, addressing the critical need for well-prepared educators who can create inclusive learning environments.
- Australian Award for University Teaching (OLT) – National Award
- Distinguished Teaching Award, The University of Western Australia
- Charles Sturt University - Faculty Teaching Award
- Faculty of Education Team Teaching Excellence Award (2006)
- Australian Award for University Teaching - Team Award (2013)
Professor Bain has successfully attracted over $20 million in grants and contracts for educational initiatives, including the Dell/Intel Outcomes Project ($3 million), NSW Department of Education programs ($500,000), and multiple foundation grants. He actively supervises doctoral students, currently leading a team working on projects related to his theory-to-practice approach to educational change. His leadership extends to directing the Smart Learning Initiative at Charles Sturt University and previously serving as Associate Headmaster of Brewster Academy in the United States.
As Director of the Smart Learning Initiative, Professor Bain leads a dedicated team working to position Charles Sturt University as a leader in learning and teaching innovation. His earlier work with the Inclusive Education Team produced significant outcomes including doctoral theses and competitive tenders with educational authorities. His international consulting experience spans Thailand, Hong Kong, Brazil, and the US, where he provided organizational design expertise to educational institutions worldwide.
