New teaching excellence ambassador Maarja Ojamaa values deep engagement and academic discussion

On 10 June, the University of Tartu announced its new teaching excellence ambassadors. Among them is Professor of Cultural Semiotics Maarja Ojamaa. The title is given to recognise 14 academic staff members who develop their teaching based on evidence and support an open teaching culture that values learning.

To introduce one of the new ambassadors, we asked Professor Ojamaa a few questions.

Many congratulations, Professor Maarja Ojamaa, on being selected as a University of Tartu teaching excellence ambassador! In your view, what is most important today when teaching and supervising in higher education, and how does it differ from when you were a student yourself?

Compared with my student years, I think the role of higher education has changed and continues to evolve, both from a societal perspective and in students' lives. It is important to recognise these changes and remain flexible in our approach. At the same time, I believe that creating an environment that encourages deep engagement and academic discussion is more important than ever.

What has been the most important lesson you have learned through teaching and supervising?

In an era of constant cognitive overload and information overload, doing less but doing it more thoroughly is far more valuable than trying to do a lot in a short time.

How do you take student feedback into account when planning your teaching?

I am very grateful that students take the time to provide feedback. I genuinely appreciate it a lot. When planning my teaching at the start of each semester, I take students’ criticism, suggestions and positive feedback into account.

Have you ever gone into a class without preparing beforehand?

(Laughs.) No, that has never happened. But occasions when I have felt that I could not possibly have prepared any better are almost as rare.

What advice would you give to a young colleague who is just starting out as a university lecturer and supervisor?

My first recommendation would be to take part in the university’s teaching-related professional development courses. They offer practical knowledge, encouragement, and an opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues.

What are your plans as a teaching excellence ambassador?

I still need to give that some thought, but broadly speaking, I hope to promote the value of teaching both within my department and institute and across our alma mater more widely.

The role of a teaching excellence ambassador at the University of Tartu

The aim of creating the system of teaching excellence ambassadors is to strengthen the understanding that good teaching is a skill that one can learn and develop, and a research-based practice that requires dedication, collaboration and continuous self-improvement. Ambassadors are advocates for their field and representatives of the community, helping to make the quality of teaching and its impact visible.

The title of teaching excellence ambassador is awarded for five years and comes with the opportunity to take part in development projects, be a mentor, and contribute to shaping teaching.

This academic year (2025/2026), applications for the title could be submitted in both autumn and spring. In the future, there will be only one application round per academic year. The next application deadline is 15 October 2026. Further information can be found in the University of Tartu news.