| Abstract | At Bryn Mawr College, a key vehicle for supporting the teaching and learning of early career faculty and the preparation of graduate students for academic careers is the Teaching and Learning Initiative (TLI at www.brynmawr.edu/tli). The TLI is a constellation of educational activities, projects and programs, in which students, staff, and faculty interact in an extended and inclusive learning community to share best practices and explore effective pedagogical approaches. All faculty members and graduate and post-doctoral students who would like to develop and improve their teaching abilities and experiences are invited to participate. The TLI makes extensive use of peer and student feedback and also provides funding support for collaborative projects around the development and assessment of teaching and learning. Students who complete a given set of activities qualify for a Dean’s Certificate in Pedagogy, which appears on their graduate transcript. All new faculty members participate in an intensive New Faculty Program during their first two years, which includes multiple activities orienting them to scholarship, teaching and service. Topics covered in teaching include: teaching styles; developing a teaching portfolio; course design; integrating and responding to writing across the disciplines; leading discussions; and grading and assessment. All activities are designed to encourage a better understanding of personal teaching styles and highlight areas and techniques for growth and improvement. |
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