Lecturer Spotlight: Claire Masterton

What's your role at D&A College, and what's the story behind how you ended up here?

I’m a lecturer in the Business Team and teach a number of business-related subjects, including economics, marketing, digital technologies, and management.

I studied for an HND in Business Administration at Dundee College back in the early 1990’s and really got the bug for business. I loved it so much that I moved on to study for a BA Commerce at Abertay University with the view to becoming a Business Studies secondary school teacher.

In 1996, I was asked if I would like some part-time economics teaching hours in the Business Studies department of Dundee College, and I’ve been at Dundee College/D&A College ever since. I suppose I’m a bit of a veteran now after 27 years! I still have such a passion for my subject area, and I absolutely love working with our wonderful students.

So, work is one thing, but what's the scoop on your life outside these college walls? Any exciting projects or weekend adventures?

I’ve always loved baking and rediscovered a real love for it again during lockdown. You’ll quite often find me in the kitchen at the weekend making cakes, brownies or homemade breads.

I make cakes, cheesecakes and brownies for friends and family birthdays and special occasions, and I have been known to make the odd sweet treat or two for my colleagues in the Business Team.

If you had to ditch your current expertise for something entirely different, what subject would you dive into, and what's the reasoning behind your switch up?

That’s an interesting question.

I would probably say bakery and patisserie, as that’s what I love to do outside work, but I also love gardening!

I have a small, but perfectly formed garden at home and I love to plant flowers and plants during the spring and summer months, look after them and watch them grow. I’m actually planning to plant a herb garden this summer so that I can use the herbs in my cooking.

I used to spend many hours with my Grandad in his greenhouse and garden when I was a child, and I think I always go back to that happy place when I’m pottering about. It’s good for the soul.

If you could have any person, dead or alive, as a guest lecturer in your class, who would it be and why?

I would invite Noam Chomsky along. I read much of his work when I was a student and I like the perspectives and insights that he has on current events and societal issues. He also is able to put across sometimes complex ideas in a very clear manner. It would be amazing to have him deliver a stimulating and memorable lecture.

Share with us the most valuable piece of advice you've picked up on your academic adventure, especially when it comes to navigating the ins and outs of your subject.

I think the best advice that I was ever given was to make sure that I taught business (and particularly economics) in a way that was easier to understand.

There are many theories in the subjects that we teach, which can be quite complex. I’ve always tried to teach, for example, economics in a way which is easy to understand by using lots of real-life examples. I like to break down complex concepts into simple terms and make sure to include plenty of examples from everyday life. I found that really helped me when I was a student.

I was also advised at an early stage in my teaching career, to be approachable and just to be myself. Students are more likely to ask questions if they feel that they can talk to you.

If Claire has inspired you, browse our Business courses.

Look out for more lecturer spotlights coming soon!