Melissa Fanshawe

Melissa Fanshawe is an Associate Professor in Mathematics Curriculum and Pedagogy at the University of Southern Queensland's School of Education. With over 25 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and academic, she focuses on inclusive education, online learning, and preparing pre-service teachers. Her research emphasizes accessibility for students with vision impairments, leveraging LEGO Braille Bricks and advocating for equitable educational structures.

• Education: BA (Griffith University, 1998), GDipEd (QUT, 1999), MSpecEd (University of Newcastle, 2015), PhD (University of Southern Queensland, 2021).
• Research Interests: Mathematics education, inclusive practices, special education, and technology integration.

Dr. Fanshawe has pioneered work in braille literacy, disability advocacy, and teacher training. Her awards include the Australian Awards for University Teaching and ADCET Accessibility in Action. She volunteers with Vision Australia and serves as co-President of the South Pacific Educators of Vision Impairment.

Her recent publications address barriers faced by students with vision impairments during the pandemic, innovative teaching tools like LEGO Braille Bricks, and strategies for fostering student engagement in online learning.

• Grants & Projects: National accreditation of expanded core curricula for students with blindness/low vision, LEAP Up transition programs, and inclusive education initiatives.
• Supervision: Advises doctoral students on topics like disability inclusion, teacher advocacy, and educational equity.

She leads interdisciplinary teams advancing accessible mathematics education and collaborates internationally on mentorship programs for visually impaired youth.