It is hard to believe that November is already upon us. Participating in CTL workshops during this time of the semester provides a great opportunity to reflect on and refine our teaching as we discuss it with our colleagues. Each of us has something to share to help others as we focus on the success of our students and become the most effective teachers we can be.

In our efforts to continually provide you with ideas and support for your teaching, the CTL has launched a new resource – our 2-minute Teaching Tips videos. These teaching nuggets, drawn from our workshops, offer quick ideas of simple yet effective things you can do to improve your teaching. Read below to learn how to view our 2-minute Teaching Tips videos.

We look forward to seeing you this month at the CTL,

Scott L. Phillips, Ph.D.

Melissa Hawkins, the CTL’s International Teaching and Learning Specialist, will present Understanding the Impact of Cross-cultural Values on Thursday, November 3, from 11:30 AM-1 PM.  This workshop teaches foundational concepts regarding global differences in cross-cultural values and how they influence the classroom experience. Then, Melissa Hawkins will also teach Supporting the Development of Critical Thinking Skills on Thursday, November 17, from 11:30 AM-1 PM.    

In addition, Dr. Michelle Allen of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be teaching Safe Zone on Tuesday, November 8, from 11:30 AM-1:30 PM.

For workshop descriptions and to register, please visit go.uab.edu/globalawareness.

On Tuesday, November 15, from 9-10 AM, we will present Blazer Core Teaching: Trailhead Program Course Design Workshop. This collaborative workshop focuses on the nuts and bolts of designing linked, interdisciplinary courses for the Trailhead Interdisciplinary Teaching Program. We will explore strategies for developing projects that span multiple courses, designing “anchor courses” (small courses that provide opportunities for students to discuss, write, and reflect), designing assessments of interdisciplinary learning, and designing effective and long-standing partnerships between faculty in different departments.

The New CTL Space:
In early 2020, the CTL assumed management of the 4th floor of Lister Hill Library. The space, formerly known as “The Edge of Chaos,” is now the new Center for Teaching and Learning. While no longer in use as an event venue for rent, it is the perfect space for faculty professional development activities, faculty meetings, committee meetings, day retreats, and other faculty gatherings between the hours of 8 AM-5 PM. Think of the new CTL as UAB’s faculty lounge. When attending faculty events at the CTL, use your one card in the LHL elevators to access the 4th floor, follow the signs pointing you in the right direction when you exit the elevator, and don't forget to sign in to the workshops you attend.

Click here to read more about what you can do with UAB's Campus Calendar.