Workshops
Building Community in the Classroom: Tools for Facilitating a Positive Learning Environment
September 12, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Fostering a sense of community in the classroom can have positive impacts on student engagement and performance. Research shows that when students feel they belong to their academic community, they can engage in dialogue and reflection more actively and take ownership and responsibility of their own learning. This workshop will explore the ideas and strategies for deliberately building a learning community in your classroom throughout the various stages of course design and implementation.
Registration will open soon.
Conducting Research on your Teaching
September 17, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Are you interested in enhancing teaching and learning experiences? Join us for a workshop that delves into the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). In this session, we will explore the SoTL literature, research methodologies, and practical strategies to engage in the scholarship. Whether you are a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this workshop will help you make a meaningful impact in the classroom.
Registration will open soon.
Building an Engaging Flipped Science Lab by Using Research-Based Motivation Strategies
September 19, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Laboratory learning is a crucial component of science education, yet undergraduate students often encounter cognitive overload in laboratory settings, potentially diminishing their chances of achieving the intended learning objectives. The flipped classroom model has been recognized for its ability to lessen the influx of new information that students confront upon entering the laboratory, thereby aiding in reducing cognitive overload. However, flipped lab courses face challenges in motivating students to engage in pre-lab learning activities, which can affect their lab performance due to inadequate preparation. To address these challenges, we explored the application of the research-based MUSIC Model of Motivation (Mpowerment, Usefulness, Success, Interest, and Caring) in designing a flipped neuroscience laboratory course. By integrating these five motivational elements into the course design, we enhanced student engagement and improved learning outcomes. Participants will explore the MUSIC Model of Motivation, examine the pros and cons of a flipped approach for laboratory learning, and discuss the techniques used to build a flipped lab experience.
Registration will open soon.
The Just Right Challenge: Designing Assessments and Assignments Students Find Meaningful
September 24, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Well-designed assessments and assignments can be a tool for facilitating meaningful learning experiences when they present the “just right challenge” for students. In this workshop we will discuss the value of connecting assessments and assignments to course objectives and strategies for creating innovative, motivating, and meaningful assessments and assignments to promote student learning.
Registration will open soon.
Inspiring Student Engagement Through Classroom Feedback Loops
October 2, 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Do you wonder about new strategies for promoting student engagement? Using participants’ own examples of student work, grading materials, and student feedback on course instruction, participants will engage in activities that cover various aspects of a full feedback loop. Participants will practice 1) giving feedback that elevates both student learning and student motivation, as well as 2) synthesizing student feedback and identifying actionable steps they can take to implement real-time (that semester) and long-term (future semesters) improvements in their course that inspire student engagement.
Registration will open soon.
From Theory to Practice: Fostering Metacognition in the Classroom
October 16, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Metacognition – the ability to think about one’s own thinking – is a powerful tool for student success. Some of your students might have performed poorly on their midterm exam and not know how to improve. In this workshop, we will explore practical strategies to cultivate metacognitive skills in your students. From understanding metacognition theory to implementing effective classroom practices, participants will gain actionable insights to enhance student learning.
Registration will open soon.
SoTL Research Roadmap: Transforming Questions into Action
October 30, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Newman Library 4th Floor – 3310 Torgersen
Do you have a research question that can contribute to the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Literature but still have questions about implementing the research? Join our interactive workshop to transform your research questions into actionable plans. This session will guide you through the essential steps to design and execute a successful SoTL study.
Registration will open soon.