Instructional Methods

Course Overview

Instructional Methods is a professional development seminar aimed at helping early-career faculty and educators improve their teaching practices for undergraduate students. This hybrid course connects theory with practice by guiding participants through designing, developing, and implementing effective teaching strategies based on research and aligned with disciplinary standards.

During the course, participants will:

• Explore how students learn and how instructors can respond with inclusive, evidence-based pedagogy
• Practice backwards design and build lesson plans, assessments, rubrics, and engagement strategies tailored to real classroom environments
• Participate in a dynamic online learning community with weekly units and discussion
• Receive structured feedback and multiple opportunities to revise and improve their work
• Build a comprehensive Educator Portfolio demonstrating growth and achievement in instructional methods

The course is mainly offered online through Canvas and includes two workshops, which can be in person or virtual, scheduled jointly with the cohort. Participants are expected to participate weekly in video lectures, readings, discussions, and assignments. No textbooks are necessary, and readings and materials will be provided digitally.

Learning Goals

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Apply principles of instructional design to course development
• Integrate active learning strategies into their teaching
• Align assessments with learning objectives
• Reflect on their teaching practice for continuous improvement

Course Details

Delivery Format: Hybrid (Online modules + 2 in-person workshops)