Improving Teaching Efficacy Through Performance Training (ISETL)
Former PTF chair Jen Moon co-presented at the International Society for Exploring Teaching & Learning (ISETL) Annual Conference in October 2019.
Explore the conference proceedings (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) or read the abstract below.
We investigated the efficacy of training university instructors in the use of dramatic arts and communication tools to build an inclusive and positive classroom learning environment. In the study, a community of ten STEM instructors participated in one-year training sessions, consisting of workshops and pedagogical support. Our presentation will share the quantitative and qualitative data for our hypothesis stating that training instructors in the dramatic arts and communication methods enriches student engagement and increases instructor willingness to try innovative pedagogical approaches. We will engage participants in a training example and invite discussion on our approaches and outcomes.
Related Initiatives
Performance Training for Instructors
Currently, there is a lot of momentum to support instructors interested in employing evidence-based pedagogy in the classroom. However, a significant portion of the success of a course depends on the instructor’s ability to positively engage with students. Many (if not most) instructors have never been formally trained in effective communication methods that engage students and foster trust between students and faculty.