Drawing from the lived experience of educators, this book explores the concept of a pedagogy of kindness through practical applications and strategies for teaching in higher education.

Conversational in tone, narrative-based and rich with practical stories, ideas, and strategies, this book provides guidance to help educators shape their teaching. It covers all aspects of teaching in higher education, including curriculum design, delivery, marking and feedback. Each chapter describes a specific perspective on practical applications of kindness, including authentic strategies used to increase positivity and connection in teaching and learning. Through a series of case studies, it provides relatable examples that educators can apply to their practices as they navigate a dynamic and rewarding teaching environment.

This book will help educators who are keen to bring the joy back to their teaching and who want to connect with their students and see learning come alive again in higher education.

Airdre Grant is an experienced academic, author and educator with over 20 years' experience in teaching and learning. She worked in the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at Southern Cross University (SCU) for 15 years as an academic developer. In her role in the Learning Innovations team at Deakin University, Airdre supported academics' pedagogical practice in online teaching and learning environments through a focus on learning and assessment design. She is currently writing her third book, a novel about women in the workplace and the challenges they face maintaining their kindness and compassion.

Sharon Pittaway was an educator for over 20 years with experience teaching Preps to post-grads. As an English and Drama teacher, Sharon was keenly aware of the human-centred nature of the teaching-learning relationship. Her move into pre-service teacher education saw her continue to develop and refine her pedagogical practice and in her leadership roles, she supported others to examine and reflect on their own. Sharon's personal quest to be kind, initiated by the example of her grandmother, was at the forefront of her thinking and pedagogical practice throughout her years as an educator.