October

What can you do to effectively engage students, convey the importance of course content, and facilitate better learning outcomes? Maybe, instead of focusing on how we can get students to think a topic is important, we should start directing some of our attention to how we can help students feel it is important.

We all recognize that the cost of textbooks has risen dramatically over the last 40 years, increasing at four times the rate of inflation since 2000. While these rising costs impact all students, researchers have noted that historically underserved student populations are the most impacted.

We all wish for attentive and curious students—but we don’t always design learning experiences that foster curiosity and attention.

The best professors are lifelong learners—including learning how to be (even) better teachers. While it might be hard, or outright impossible, to find time for professional development during a busy academic term, the summer provides an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and refresh our teaching toolkit.

As we start the new year, you may be looking for new ways to promote students’ sense of belonging and build a positive climate in your classroom.