The Centre for Teaching and Learning supports this teaching mission by partnering with instructors and departments to create transformative learning experiences for U of A’s diverse and dynamic student body.
Under the purview of the Office of the Vice-Provost, CTL holds primary responsibility for professional development of teaching practice at the U of A. The unit supports the university in meeting its core commitments and strategic priorities by offering responsive, strategic expertise and services that inspire, empower, and challenge instructors to integrate research-supported, inclusive approaches into their teaching praxis, and to engage in a process of continuous development of teaching practice.
Programming and Services
CTL’s wide-ranging programming and services are designed to model effective teaching and to equip instructors with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to provide students with exceptional learning experiences and to meet the university’s teaching and learning goals:
- Workshops: These workshops target skill building and the development of knowledge and self-awareness for integration into instructors’ teaching practice. Workshops can be stand-alone sessions or a series focused on a theme. They are offered in person, online, or hybridly.
- CTL Talks: Focus on sharing information and ideas on teaching while role modeling engaging lecture styles/techniques. CTL Talks are stand-alone sessions or a series focused on a theme. Offered in-person, online, or hybridly.
- Cohort Learning Groups: Semester-long, interdisciplinary learning cohorts focused on: 1) reading circles that engage with a pedagogical text or, 2) communities of practice and care aiming to co-create and role model the experience of relational, equitable, and accessible learning communities. Offered online.
- Consultations: One-on-one or group solution-focused discussion with a CTL team member on topics related to pedagogy and course/program design and delivery.
August Teaching Institute
Active learning in action
Aug. 14 - 15, 2024 | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. | ECHA 2-131
The August Teaching Institute (ATI) is a practical, skills-based program that helps instructors design engaging, inclusive learning experiences that prepare students for tomorrow. You will explore classroom-ready activities and strategies that facilitate maximum student engagement and transformative learning experiences, leaving you feeling confident and prepared for the academic year.
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Canvas Learning Opportunities: Welcome Early Adopters!
In partnership with the University of Alberta’s LMS of the Future project, CTL is facilitating several Canvas Learning Opportunities from August 12 to 30. These workshops are designed to enhance your teaching and learning experience with Canvas in person and online.
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Launching into Fall: Academic Teaching Staff (ATS) Orientation
Empowering your teaching success
Aug. 20, 2024 | 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. | CAB 281
or Sept. 4, 2024 | 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. | Online via Zoom
At the U of A, we know how important Academic Teaching Staff (sessional instructors) are to the university’s teaching mission. Launching into Fall: Academic Teaching Staff (ATS) Orientation empowers you with practical support as you take your teaching role.
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Featured Resources
Multifaceted Evaluation of Teaching
Resources for multifaceted evaluation of teaching, including the Framework for Effective Teaching and Student Perspectives of Teaching (SPOT).
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Public-Facing Resource: Teaching During Global and Geopolitical Crisis
We have curated the following list of resources to provide those involved with learning / teaching with accessible and concrete approaches that may help support affected students in trauma-informed and relational ways during a time of geopolitical crisis.
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Teaching in the Context of AI
Welcome to U of A CTL’s dedicated section on the use of AI tools and applications in teaching and learning!
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