Newsletter September 10, 2026
cte.utah.edu

For many of us, when we plan our courses, we think about what we’re going to teach and then how we’re going to assess it. However, backwards design starts with the end-goal in mind — the learning outcomes — and then moves forward to determine what the acceptable evidence is for meeting those learning outcomes (i.e., assessment), and then how you're going to get students there (i.e., instruction). Adopting a backwards design approach can lead to more focused instruction, more valid assessments, and better student outcomes (e.g., Mousa, 2025). 

Want to learn more about how to approach this in your course design? Attend CTE’s workshop on Backwards Design for Course Success on September 16 at 1pm via Zoom. 

Discover how SAGE Learning Resources can help students strengthen a variety of skills like, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication to name just a few. In this practical session, the SAGE Engagement Team and Marriott Library staff will introduce ready-to-use videos, case studies, datasets, online modules, and research methods content, then share concrete ideas for integrating these resources into courses and assignments. Participants will learn about Sage Skills, Research Methods, Business, Data, and other Learning Resources modules. We will also share strategies for connecting course content to the University of Utah’s Durable Skills Framework, embedding resources directly into their courses, and supporting skills students can carry into their future studies and careers.

Join us on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., either in person in the Marriott Library’s Room 2753 (Learning Space) or via Zoom.

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://utah.zoom.us/meeting/register/rpHm6hc4RM-iDn-8T1iW3Q

Registrants need to use their u00000@utah.edu email address to register.

Questions? - contact: mlib-collection_development@lists.utah.edu

About Sage Learning Resources:

Sage Learning Resources support the teaching and learning of skills and research methods through 280+ hours of structured online learning. The online courses are self-paced and instructor-led, comprising an engaging mix of quality content, video, interactives, and formative assessments. Topics cover critical skills and research methods across all stages of academic study. Marriott Library has acquired the full catalog of Sage Learning Resources sections and modules, including Sage Research Methods, Business, Data, Video, Skills, and Campus.

The University of Utah One-U Responsible Artificial Intelligence Initiative (One-U RAI) is accepting nominations for its inaugural awards program honoring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing responsible AI. The campus community is invited to submit nominations across all disciplines for two open awards—one for faculty members and another for grad students or postdocs. A third award will recognize a dedicated One-U RAI committee member. Help us celebrate outstanding work at the U, and nominate your peers or yourself by Sept. 20: rai.utah.edu/opportunities/annual-awards/.

Join us for Accessibility Tech Tips Tuesday this fall! This semester’s series will focus on building practical skills for creating more accessible digital content. Through short, hands-on sessions, explore tools and strategies to help make your course materials easier to access, navigate, and use for all learners. Check out the schedule and drop in for the sessions that best support your work!