HomeResearch at UCOLResearch staffVicky Beckwith

Vicky Beckwith

Literacy and Numeracy Leader

Vicky Beckwith

Vicky Beckwith is the Literacy and Numeracy Leader at UCOL | Te Pūkenga, and is supporting staff through the Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark trial.

Her key areas of research interest are focused on global citizenship and global citizenship education (GCED). Her research work titled ‘Parents’ perceptions of global citizenship education in rural Aotearoa New Zealand’ can be found in the Waikato Journal of Education.

During her Master of Education (MEd) in Global Studies in Education at the University of Waikato, Beckwith was introduced to UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Narratives influence Beckwith the most – those of her own migrant ancestors from Scandinavia, Scotland, and France, who travelled to England over the centuries, her migration to Aotearoa New Zealand, vocational students, and the future narratives her son will be part of. “There are core values, such as responsibility, commitment, and manākitanga, which are entwined with engagement and creativity, and override political boundaries,” says Beckwith. “These shared core values are becoming increasingly important as humanity faces pandemic events (climatic or health related). They are what connects humanity, and are shared across many cultures.”

In her most recent research, Beckwith highlights the perspectives of parents and the potential for schools to utilise the experience and expertise of parents. She explores how through collaboration, GCED teaching in Aotearoa New Zealand can be strengthened. She discovers parents are key stakeholders in the development of GCED in their children.

Outside of work, gaming, Star Wars, Marvel, Lego, and backyard ecology are the things that give Vicky a break. It used to be playing the piano but she’s found playing Fortnite is easier for her to settle into! She thoroughly enjoys being a mum and chasing after her cats, dog, and 11 year old!

Top