Alan Williams

Dr. Alan Williams is an Academic Lead at the University of Derby, specifically within the School of Nursing and Midwifery, part of the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care. He leads the Doctorate in Health and Social Care Practice (DPrac), a fully online professional doctorate attracting global students. With a background as a Registered Nurse since 1988, he transitioned to academia in 2006, previously serving at the University of Nottingham before joining Derby in 2019.

Education:

• Doctorate in Health Sciences, University of Nottingham (2018)
• PGCHE, University of Nottingham (2009)
• MSc Health Studies, University of Birmingham (2004)
• BA Accountancy, Abertay University (1984)
• Registered Nurse (Adult and Mental Health), 1988
• Senior Fellow, Advance HE (2020)

His research interests focus on educational technology in health professions, particularly the design and effectiveness of student- and tutor-generated online learning resources, resuscitation education, and the future of digital pedagogy (Education 4.0). His work bridges clinical practice and academic innovation, emphasizing experiential and technology-enhanced learning.

His recent publications and conference presentations reveal a strong trend in online learning, especially during and post-pandemic, with themes around virtual collaboration, mental wellbeing of educators, and the transformation of healthcare education through digital tools. His scholarship increasingly explores how digital environments shape learning design and academic resilience.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Travel Bursary from CPRO (2002)
• Nurse Education in Practice Reviewer of the Month (2018)

Alan Williams advises doctoral students through the DPrac programme and has contributed to curriculum development, validation, and quality assurance at national and institutional levels. He has served as an External Examiner at Sheffield, Surrey, and Staffordshire Universities and participated in University of Nottingham’s NMC Approval Panel. He has not explicitly mentioned grant funding, but his involvement in national educational initiatives and conference leadership (e.g., Co-Chair of ALT Conferences) indicates significant scholarly engagement.

He is actively involved in professional bodies including the Resuscitation Council UK (Executive Committee member since 2021), Advance HE, Association for Learning Technology, and Royal College of Nursing. His work with the Resuscitation Council UK spans over 25 years as an ALS and paediatric instructor, influencing national training standards and future educators.