MsKarla Coutts

Karla's PhD is awaiting conferral, after receiving a straight pass and commendation from her examiners. The research focuses on fostering student belonging through online teaching and learning interactions in higher education. Karla is a grounded theorist with expertise in longitudinal research design, and has published both on the practical application of grounded theory, and student belonging online. Karla's research incorporates student and educator perspectives. Karla translates ideas and collaborations into innovative projects.

Karla was lead chief investigator on the First Nations Science curriculum project 2023 to 2024, responsible for the production of the framework. Karla designed a First Nations led project with a deep respect for First Nations ICIP, involving extensive national consultation with First Nations experts. The framework was based on the important work of Jingili team member Professor Joe Sambono. Karla structured the framework to be open access and to easily translate into workshops and curriculum development practice. She designed and delivered the first national workshop based on the framework at the Australian Conference on Science and Mathematics Education in September 2024. More details on the grant are available in Karla's publications and professional activities pages, including the grant publications and a podcast with Yamaji/Nyungar team member Tui Raven about the project development.