Melissa Smith

Welcome to my digital portfolio!

I’m a Doctor of Education (EdD) graduate from CQU, with my thesis conferred in May 2026. My research explored the experiences of children, teachers and volunteers in “reading to dogs” reading interventions, supported by a highly competitive Australian RTP stipend awarded in 2023.

Before moving into university teaching, I spent 20 years as a classroom teacher and school leader, with extensive experience in trauma settings and flexible schooling. I now unit coordinate and teach across BEd, MEd and MTeach degrees at several universities, both in person and online. I’m particularly experienced in literacy, secondary professional experience and pedagogy units delivered asynchronously, as well as GTPA/QTPA assessment.

Some of my work these days is with educators rather than students. I co-facilitate Murdoch University’s Advance HE-accredited Certificate of Learning and Teaching, supporting academic staff towards AFHEA through session facilitation, assessment, teaching observations and coaching. From 2026, I have also been training the staff who conduct those observations.

Alongside this, I speak publicly about living with disability, inclusion in workplaces, and different ways to respond to “but you don’t look disabled.”

I get excited about all things learning related and am a self-labelled crazy dog lady. I volunteer with Labrador Rescue, Reading Dawgz and Share the Dignity.

Email: contactmelsmith@gmail.com