Robert Collins

Robert Collins is a Senior Teaching Fellow and Course Director for the Teaching Qualification in Further Education (TQFE) programs at the University of Strathclyde's Strathclyde Institute of Education (SIoE). He chairs the Board of Examiners for undergraduate and postgraduate teacher education courses and previously led the BA (Hons) Primary Education program. Collins is a key figure in the University's VIP4SD initiative, co-founding the Strathclyde Climate Ambassadors Network (StrathCAN). He serves on University Senate, representing education strategy and disciplinary matters. As a Senate Discipline Committee member, he influences pedagogical policies, including the national Vision 2030: Learning for Sustainability. Collins is an External Examiner for Edgehill University's teacher education programs.

Education:

• Master of Science, University of Strathclyde (2008)
• Bachelor of Science, University of Glasgow (1990)
• Chartered Science Teacher (2014)
• Registered Scientist (2014)

His research focuses on transdisciplinary ESD pedagogy, STEM education, and adult learner identity development. He has pioneered VIP4SD projects, recognized internationally, including outreach in Gambia and the Middle East. His work addresses pedagogical confidence and effective ESD delivery in higher and further education. Collins has presented globally, including at New York University and the University of Southern California, and co-authored peer-reviewed articles on ESD and STEM.

Awards & Recognition: Recipient of multiple UN Green Gowns Awards (2019–2022), the inaugural University Teaching Excellence Award in ESD (2023–24), and student-nominated teaching excellence accolades. His VIP4SD program was highlighted at the International Consortium Conference in Atlanta and NYU Tandon School of Engineering.

Grants & Projects: Leads or co-leads 13 active or completed projects, including a £3M MoU with City of Glasgow College (2023–2026) and the Climate Fresk initiative. His work integrates sustainability goals (e.g., SDG 4: Quality Education) with community engagement and widening access programs.

Labs/Teams: Oversees StrathCAN's public-facing website and coordinates VIP4SD project evaluations. Collaborates with the HaSS Faculty Learning Enhancement Committee on ESD strategy and student discipline governance.