The Incubator is a key player in cultivating and supporting the development of junior lecturers, also known as the jewels. Ana Clara Cassanti, junior lecturer in Sustainability at VU’s Institute for Environmental Studies (IVM), tells us everything about it. “The incubator goes beyond workshops for innovating education, it’s also a space where jewels can think about their personal development and to truly connect with each other: it's powerful to find like-minded people who inspire you to be your best version.”
From vision to reality: where did it all start?
The Incubator: a platform for junior lecturers to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and draw inspiration for their teaching practices. A welcoming space, even for low-key conversations or impromptu moments of inspiration. It sprouted from the Development programme for junior lecturers: a four-year initiative, marked by certifications and professional development, with a two-year ‘Pioneers of Education programme’, dedicated to innovative projects in teaching. It empowers jewels like Cassanti to innovate teaching and lead their own education projects, with support and resources for evidence-based contributions to education to improve the broader educational landscape.
Later on Janneke Waelen, director of CTL, along with Maiza Campos Ponce, associate professor and education specialist, and Marieke Parijs, education specialist, transformed their idea into what is now known as: The Incubator. Brought to life with the assistance of Cassanti and other junior lecturers. “The jewels played an important role in shaping the incubator's vision, brainstorming its structure, workshops, and overall functionality. Although not officially leading the project, they actively contributed to its development, showcasing the collaborative and innovative spirit of junior lecturers at VU Amsterdam. The Incubator is really a testament to the proactive and creative approach that they bring to education.” says Maiza.
“Truly by junior lecturers, for junior lecturers,” adds Cassanti.
