Dr Claire Saunders is Associate Dean (Students and Teaching) in the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies at the Open University. A higher education leader and researcher with extensive experience in teaching, curriculum development and academic practice, Claire has played a significant role in advancing innovative approaches to learning, assessment and educational enhancement across the sector. Claire's work focuses on creating inclusive, student-centred learning environments and supporting institutions to respond thoughtfully to emerging educational challenges and opportunities. As the Open University continues to develop its approach to digital education and generative AI, she has been involved in institutional initiatives exploring the future of learning, assessment and academic integrity in an AI-enabled world.  

Her research interests include academic writing, scholarly practice, professional learning and the scholarship of teaching and learning. Through leadership roles including Director of Praxis, the Faculty's Centre for Scholarship and Innovation, she has championed evidence-informed approaches to educational change and supported academic communities in developing effective and sustainable teaching practices. Claire brings expertise in educational innovation, digital transformation and supporting educators and institutions to navigate the opportunities and complexities presented by AI in higher education