Dr Ange McLean Academic Coordinator – Bachelor of Nursing
“With my background as a practicing physiotherapist, a teacher of human biology, and a PhD in health professional student education, I am privileged to be in a role that draws on this skillset,” says Dr McLean.
After completing her studies in physiotherapy, Dr McLean worked for several years specialising in neurophysiotherapy, where she focused on improving the mobility, function, and quality of life for people with neurological conditions. She later transitioned to teaching, combining her clinical expertise with a growing interest in education.
For over a decade, Ange taught at Otago University within the Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology. She then completed a PhD in Education focusing on how health professional students use feedback in their learning— a subject that continues to inform and enrich her teaching today.
“Whether working as a physiotherapist or in higher education, I’ve always loved the teaching part of my role. I enjoy figuring out with people how they learn best and what they might need to thrive.”
Ange’s teaching philosophy is grounded in social constructivism, the idea that learning happens when people are active, engaged, and having fun.
“I like to run classes in bite-sized pieces, with breaks and chances to get up and move around,” she says. “I love it when students ask questions.”
Ange continues to develop her teaching practice by regularly participating in Higher Education Research and Development Society seminars across New Zealand and Australia.
“I find it useful to see what other educators are doing,” Ange says. “I’m especially interested in the increasing impact of AI in education, and how we can all learn to use these technologies to our advantage.”
At NMIT, Ange values the opportunity to work closely with students in a supportive environment.
“NMIT offers a campus experience where smaller classes mean your tutors get to know you better — so you get a more personalised approach to your learning.”
