Facilitating meaningful class discussions can be challenging, especially when it comes to political topics. Many public schools avoid subjects like oppression, race, and LGBTQ+ rights,
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The importance of names
By Lindsay Vreeland and Kevin Harris Learning student names and pronouncing them correctly is an important step in helping students feel recognized as individuals and
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Encouraging student curiosity
When students show curiosity towards a course topic, they become more engaged and interested in learning. This curiosity also boosts their motivation, reduces discouragement from
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Strategies for long-term learning success
It’s not a new idea that students need to take an active role in their learning process to learn effectively and retain content over the
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Equitable, non-traditional grading
Traditional grading methods typically revolve around meeting specific criteria to obtain a grade. For instance, the conventional 0-100% scale aligned with the A-F system is
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Is it pedagogy or andragogy? Considering different teaching methods for different learners and contexts
While university environment focuses on educating students 18 and older, the teaching methods used may reflect the course’s field of study or purpose as opposed
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Supporting underprepared students
Two trends stand out about today’s college students: they’re more diverse than ever and many aren’t fully prepared for college. A range of factors, like the
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Using Content Warnings
Content warnings are a way to acknowledge that the content ahead might be challenging. They also demonstrate that you are aware of the impact the
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Gauging student learning and course equity through reflections
Studies show that reflection helps learners engage in critical thinking, develop metacognitive skills, and deepen understanding of coursework. Reflections also provide a way for instructors
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Meeting menu: An alternative to traditional office hours
Whether you’re using Bookings with Me or rebranding “office hours” as “student hours,” encouraging students to meet with you—even informally—can be a challenge. Although students
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Fall 2023 teaching effectiveness institute focuses on supporting students with mental health challenges
In August, faculty and staff from across the University came together for the Teaching Effectiveness Institute (TEI) to consider how to support the learning experiences
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Supporting LGBTQ+ students
In 2022, NIU was ranked the most LGBTQ+-friendly college in Illinois by BestColleges and was included in Campus Pride’s “Best of the Best” list for LGBTQ+-friendly colleges and universities
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