About Mark Bennison
I am a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Computer Science at the University of Sunderland, with over 18 years' experience teaching across further and higher education.
My interests lie at the intersection of computing, education, and industry. I am passionate about helping students develop the technical, professional, and problem-solving skills needed for successful careers in technology, while ensuring that computing education remains relevant to the needs of a rapidly evolving sector.
I have lead programmes in Computer Science, Game Development and Computer Systems Engineering. Alongside programme leadership and curriculum development, I work with employers, schools, colleges, and educational partners to help strengthen pathways into higher education and employment.
My background is in software development, with experience spanning programming, web applications, databases, games development, and immersive technologies. Alongside my teaching and leadership responsibilities, I am currently undertaking doctoral research exploring how immersive technologies can be used to enhance vocational education and training.
Teaching and supervision
I am a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Computer Science with a passion for helping students develop the technical, professional, and problem-solving skills needed for successful careers in the computing industry.
My background is in software development, with experience spanning web applications, databases, mobile technologies, games development, and immersive technologies. While I enjoy exploring a wide range of computing topics, I have a particular interest in programming and software engineering, where creativity and technical knowledge come together to solve real-world problems.
I have experience leading the BSc (Hons) Computer Science, BSc (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering (Top-Up), and BSc (Hons) Game Development programmes, including oversight of delivery with our Transnational Education (TNE) partners. Alongside programme leadership, I have taught across a range of subjects including programming, software development, algorithms, multi-tier web applications, game development, design patterns, rapid prototyping, and immersive application development. I have experience as an External Examiner, Approval Panel Member, and End Point Assessor on Apprenticeships.
My teaching philosophy centres on making learning practical, engaging, and relevant to industry. I am particularly interested in helping students bridge the gap between education and employment through applied learning, employer engagement, and the development of transferable skills alongside technical expertise.
Research
My research interests focus on immersive technologies, including virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (VR, AR, and XR), and their application to education and training.
I am currently undertaking doctoral research exploring how fidelity and the sense of presence within immersive environments influence learning and training outcomes. My work investigates how immersive technologies can be used to create authentic learning experiences and support the development of practical skills in vocational and professional education.
More broadly, I am interested in simulation-based learning, digital education, human-computer interaction, and the role of emerging technologies in enhancing teaching and training.
Areas of expertise
My expertise spans computer science education, curriculum development, and industry engagement, with particular interests in software development, games technology, and immersive technologies.
Alongside programme leadership responsibilities, I have experience in degree apprenticeships, End-Point Assessment, External Examining, and the delivery of programmes through Transnational Education (TNE) partnerships. I am particularly interested in graduate employability, employer engagement, and ensuring that computing curricula remain aligned with the needs of industry.
Areas of expertise include software development, programming, web applications, databases, game development, curriculum design, quality assurance, academic leadership, digital learning, and vocational education.