Rate My Professor Rebecca Bird

Her research focuses on learner success, equity, and engagement in anatomy and biomedical sciences education, encompassing student transition, belonging, academic identity, motivation and engagement in anatomy learning, reproductive and menstrual health literacy, and academic experiences of repeating students. Bird's commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching has earned national and institutional recognition: the Ako Aotearoa National Tertiary Teaching Excellence Award for Sustained Excellence (2018), University of Otago Award for Excellence in Teaching (2018), and School of Biomedical Sciences Pacific People’s Award (2024). Key publications include Willoughby, B. R., Flack, N. A. M. S., Bird, R. J., & Woodley, S. J. (2024). 'Motivation to learn in university science students studying anatomy: A mixed-methods analysis of what drives learning.' Anatomical Sciences Education, 17, 818-830; Young, C. D., Taumoepeau, M. M., Hohmann-Marriott, B. E., Girling, J. E., & Bird, R. J. (2024). 'Sexual and reproductive health knowledges: A study with Pacific young people enrolled in an Aotearoa New Zealand tertiary institution.' Culture, Health & Sexuality, 26(2), 265-283; and conference contributions such as Dolodolotawake, M., Bird, R., & Flack, N. A. M. S. (2022). 'Me tu dei: An investigation into deep posterior leg muscle size in Pacifica.' Proceedings of the ANZACA Conference. Her influence extends to inspiring students toward science careers, fostering 'lightbulb moments,' and leading peers in innovative pedagogical practices.