Designing for Change: Engaging Faculty Through a Blended Certificate in University Teaching Program

Authors

  • Matthew Stranach University of Ontario Institute of Technology
  • Jaymie Koroluk University of Ontario Institute of Technology
  • Bridgette Atkins University of Ontario Institute of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18741/P9201P

Keywords:

blended design, constructivist approach, Certificate in University Teaching (CUT) Certificate in University Teaching for Teaching Assistants (CUT-TA), learning outcomes

Abstract

A key role of teaching and learning centres at postsecondary education institutions is to provide professional development for faculty and staff. A challenge for teaching and learning centre staff is to design, develop, and deliver professional development programs that are engaging and relevant to participants. This Report of Practice describes how two programs—a Certificate in University Teaching for faculty and staff and a parallel Certificate in University Teaching for Teaching Assistants—were developed and delivered. Factors that led to their success are also discussed. The use of a constructivist approach to teaching and learning, coupled with a blended design for course delivery and a flexible approach to the application of learning technologies all contributed to the success of these programs. Lessons learned and future directions for the program are also explored. 

Author Biographies

Matthew Stranach, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Teaching and Learning Centre,  Educational Developer

Jaymie Koroluk, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Teaching and Learning Centre, Manager

Bridgette Atkins, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Teaching and Learning Centre,  Educational Developer

References

Carleton University Open (CU Open) materials. (n.d.). Module 5 resources: Learning outcomes as blueprints for design. Powerpoint slides for face-to-face instruction, Image 11. Retrieved from: http://carleton.ca/cuopen/certificate-in-blended-and-online-teaching/modules/module-5-learning-outcomes-blueprints-design/

Fink, L.D. (2003). Creating significant learning experiences: An integrated approach to designing college courses. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Garrison, D. R., & Kanuka, H. (2004). Blended learning: Uncovering its transformative potential in higher education. The Internet and Higher Education, 7(2), 95–105.

Garrison, D. R., & Vaughan, N. D. (2008). Blended learning in higher education: Framework, principles, and guidelines. Toronto, ON: John Wiley & Sons.

Owston, R., Wideman, H., Murphy, J., & Lupshenyuk, D. (2008). Blended teacher professional development: A synthesis of three program evaluations. The Internet and Higher Education, 11(3), 201–210.

UOIT. (2017). University Vision, Mission and Values. Retrieved from: http://uoit.ca/about/governance/university-vision-mission-and-values.php

Downloads

Issue

Section

Reports of Practice