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Improving Teaching Through Reflection

News in brief

Redesigning Higher Ed with the Student at the Center
“As an industry, our common purpose is to literally improve our world by educating students to discover, work and participate in our democracy,” writes A. Sasha Thackaberry. She suggests that instructors and institutions make higher education more “student-centric” by focusing on learner experience design and using digital resources such as videos and podcasts to engage students, among other strategies. (The Evolllution) 

Supporting Students in Developing Their Writing Skills Across All Disciplines
Before providing feedback, instructors should ask students about their goals regarding their writing, Bonni Stachowiak learned from her interview with Asao B. Inoue. She also suggests that instructors keep in mind that writing skills fall on a continuum, support and ask for advice from other instructors, and give students opportunities to practice and revise their writing skills. (Teaching in Higher Ed)

We Must Help First-Generation Students Master Academe’s ‘Hidden Curriculum’
Innovation requires recognizing how inequality has shaped people’s lives, according to Marcia Chatelain. In her experimental course, “Mastering the Hidden Curriculum,” Chatelain shows first-generation students how to cultivate relationships, advocate for themselves, and pursue opportunities in ways their peers may have already received guidance. (The Chronicle of Higher Education)

Keeping Conversation on the Syllabus
When David Ebenbach broached the subject of whether he should keep controversial authors who have been accused of misdeeds on the syllabus with his students, the topic prompted insightful responses. Ebenbach concluded that approaching students thoughtfully and respectfully can result in meaningful engagement and dialogue. (Inside Higher Ed)

2018 Strada-Gallup Alumni Survey
According to the 2018 Strada-Gallup Alumni Survey, college graduates are considerably more likely to be engaged in their work if they had a mentor in college. A majority of those who received mentoring said faculty served this role for them. (Gallup — download the report)

How Colleges Are Adapting to Workforce Development Mandates
As emerging technologies transform the labor force, colleges are reexamining their curricula to prepare students with lifelong skills to survive and adapt in an ever-changing job market. Microcredentials, specifically those that are career related, and partnerships between colleges and employers are two methods institutions are using to promote work readiness. (Education Dive)

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