Elaine Sharplin

Dr. Elaine Sharplin serves as Associate Dean (Teaching and Learning) for the Faculty of Education and Secondary Initial Teacher Education Program Coordinator at the University of Western Australia. With a PhD completed in 2008 on the Quality of Worklife of Rural and Remote Teachers in Western Australia, she brings over three decades of educational experience spanning classroom teaching, administration, and research leadership.

Her research program centers on critical issues in education, particularly focusing on:

• Rural and Remote Education: Investigating teacher experiences, retention challenges, and innovative solutions for geographically isolated communities
• Teacher Education: Developing effective preparation programs for pre-service and early career teachers
• English Education: Advancing curriculum development and pedagogical approaches
• Educational Leadership: Exploring effective leadership models for diverse educational contexts

Dr. Sharplin's scholarly work demonstrates consistent engagement with practical applications for improving educational outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. Her recent publications reveal a trajectory toward increasingly international collaborations, connecting Australian rural education challenges with global contexts.

Recognition and Service

• Excellence in Teaching Awards (2009, 2002)
• Nomination for Excellence in Supervision (2012, 2010)
• Outstanding Contribution for Student Learning (2012)
• Outstanding Professional Service Award from Society for the Provision of Education in Rural Australia (2012)

As an educator, Dr. Sharplin teaches both on-campus and through transnational programs in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia. She currently coordinates multiple courses including Rural Education in Australia, English Curriculum, and Introduction to Teaching, while supervising school experience placements. Her significant research funding portfolio includes the National Partnership for Improving Teacher Quality ($386,610) and multiple teaching development grants. Dr. Sharplin is actively expanding her work through international collaborations in Turkey, Peru, and Indonesia to establish a global research network addressing rural education challenges.