Focus on Teaching is a three-part series about a new thematic format of professional development opportunities provided by DELTS for Memorial’s educators. Each month, educator development sessions will be offered on a selected theme; discipline-specific teaching consultations on each theme will also be available for individuals or groups. This is the final installment.

The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) is a growing movement in post-secondary education that examines the relationship between teaching and learning. Its primary purpose is to improve student learning and enhance educational quality.

During the month of April, DELTS’ educator development team is focusing its activities on SoTL.

“The landscape of university education is changing. Universities, including Memorial, are declaring their commitment to this new paradigm in strategic plans, teaching and learning frameworks, or through funding programs that encourage fresh approaches to university teaching,” said Albert Johnson, associate director of educator development, DELTS.

Within higher education, SoTL engages teachers in looking closely and critically at student learning in order to improve their own courses and programs, and to share insights with other educators who can evaluate and build on their efforts. Classroom teaching practices such as active learning, problem-based learning, collaborative learning and blended learning are some of the aspects of classroom instruction that educators would explore.

But what types of practices actually promote learning within higher education?

“Research is integral to SoTL and is used to continuously build on the knowledge base that teachers draw upon to enhance learning environments,” explained Mr. Johnson. “The aim is not to prescribe a single model of teaching, but to enhance educational choice and to build on the strengths of individual educators.”

By making teaching a more reflective and scholarly activity, SoTL aims to give teacher-scholars a wider range of practical and academic knowledge that can be used to improve teaching practice and enhance disciplinary expertise. As educators reflect and share their individual insights, communities of practitioners can create richer and more dynamic learning environments that reflect the academic values of their institution, field, faculty or department.

Memorial University is engaged in various activities to become aligned with SoTL movement. Beginning with the approved Teaching and Learning Framework in 2011, an approved Teaching and Learning Strategic Plan is currently guiding activities that include: establishing teaching chairs and teaching committees in faculties and schools; providing appropriate support and professional development opportunities for educators; and launching a TLF funding competition to address priorities on the St. John’s Campus.

“By encouraging all university partners to think about the quality of learning experiences, SoTL encourages a broader educational dialogue that has the potential to transform contemporary higher education,” Mr. Johnson added. “In this way, good teaching becomes the responsibility of the institution as well as the individual teacher.”

To learn more about SoTL and related sessions visit www.delts.mun.ca/faculty/workshopseminar/FocusOfMonth.php. Or book an individual or group consultation on SoTL by contacting DELTS at 864-3028.