This sixth publication from the Press is the first to focus on the scholarship of teaching and learning in Science. Dr Gouws, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, reflects on his professional journey in learning and teaching within chemical process technology.
From left, Drs Buyiswa Hlangothi, Noluthando Toni, Muki Moeng, Shawn Gouws, Melissa Gouws and Adeniyi Ogunlaja
During the launch, Dr Muki Moeng, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching, commended Dr Gouws for his reflective approach and dedication to improving student learning. She highlighted his emphasis on language and the integration of scientific terminology and thanked the LT Collab, Dr Noluthando Toni and Dr Viwe Ndayi, for supporting the project.
Dr Noluthando Toni, Director of Teaching Development, praised Dr Gouws for balancing rigorous research with a deep passion for education. She acknowledged his contributions to greener fuel technologies and described him as “an unusual scientist with a magnificent achievement and a true teacher of a unique course in South Africa.”
Dr Toni also noted his efforts to bridge language barriers through collaboration with applied language specialists to develop a multilingual glossary of scientific terms.
Over his 21-year career, Dr Gouws has developed innovative training units to help students grasp key chemical and engineering principles such as thermodynamics, distillation, and fluid mechanics. His student-centred teaching philosophy blends theory with practical application, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare graduates for the chemical and engineering sectors.
Blending personal reflection with professional insight, Chasing Challenges traces his teaching journey from his early days at the former PE Technikon to his current role as Programme Coordinator for the Diploma in Chemical Process Technology. Influenced by his father, a former millwright who trained apprentices, Dr Gouws brings a hands-on, humanising approach to education.
The book introduces the Chemical Process Technology programme, which integrates chemistry, mathematics, engineering, and physics to give students a strong foundation in industrial applications. It explores curriculum design, large-class teaching, technical skill development, communication strategies, and the use of digital tools to enhance accessibility for students, including those from rural Eastern Cape.
Written with a focus on student-centred learning, Chasing Challenges discusses simulation-based training, foundational curriculum design, language diversity, industry partnerships, and the evolution of education from 1.0 to 5.0. “Every challenge in chemical education holds the potential for achievement. Through reflection, innovation, and perseverance, we can transform adversity into learning and progress,” said Dr Gouws.
Dr Gouws lectures second- and third-year students in the Diploma in Chemical Process Technology and has served as Programme Coordinator since 2012. His classes maintain attendance rates of 80 to 100 percent, reflecting his commitment to teaching excellence.
His research focuses on the characterisation of electrocatalysts for proton exchange membrane water electrolysers.
Dr Gouws received the Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching in 2014 and the Nelson Mandela University Distinguished Teacher Award in 2021. An active member of the South African Chemical Institute, the Royal Society of Chemistry, and the International Society of Electrochemistry, he has published over 15 peer-reviewed papers and contributed two book chapters internationally.
For more information or to obtain a copy of Chasing Challenges, contact Dr Gouws at shawn.gouws@mandela.ac.za.