University Of Waikato School Of Education Appoints New Dean
Professor Alister Jones has been appointed as the new Dean of Waikato University’s School of Education.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Roy Crawford described the appointment of Professor Jones as ‘an exciting development for the
School and the University’.
"Professor Jones is an outstanding scholar and an experienced and innovative administrator. He has a substantial
research record in New Zealand and internationally and is well-placed to lead the School and help the University achieve
its Vision."
Currently Alister is the Director of the Wilf Malcolm Institute of Educational Research and was the Director of the
University’s Centre for Science and Technology Research. He has managed and directed research projects that have
informed policy and curriculum and teacher development in New Zealand and overseas.
Alister’s main area of interest is science and technology education and he was the principal author of the NZ Technology
Curriculum document. In 2000, he was awarded the NZ Science and Technology Medal for his significant contribution to the
development of technology education both nationally and internationally.
As well as being a research professor, he has considerably teaching experience and has worked with teachers to explore
ways of enhancing learning. He was instrumental in establishing the Biotechnology Learning Hub and has chaired various
committees and produced numerous publications, conference papers and presentations.
In his new role Alister aims to further develop the School of Education’s international reputation for teaching and
research leadership.
“The work over the last 10 years has seen significant progress being made towards a School of Education which can be
considered to be moving towards the top internationally. This work can be consolidated and moved forward to highlight
our world-class teaching and research,” he says.
As well as growing the School’s postgraduate, e-learning and research culture Alister is committed to biculturalism and
strengthening M?ori Education teaching and research within the School. He envisages diversifying the School’s
connections locally, nationally and internationally.
Professor Jones will take up his position in February 2007 when the current Dean Noeline Alcorn retires from the
position after having served for 14 years.
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