What are Teaching Circles? Why should I lead a Teaching Circle?
The Kossen Center for Teaching and Learning supports Teaching Circles that offer opportunities for rich group discussions among peers that are interested in expanding their teaching strategies and focusing on academic excellence. These Circles intentionally foster teamwork and center attention on proven best practices that promote active learning and student success.
KCTL provides mini grants to select faculty who want to form a Teaching Circle on a particular topic of their choosing. Members reflect on current practices, share existing strategies which have proven to be effective, and/or discuss and generate new strategies. The important part is that faculty talk, exchange ideas, and work together to design and refine institutional practices that support effective teaching and the success of our students. Any topic, as long as it is related to promoting best practices in teaching and learning and student success, will be considered for Teaching Circle funds.
Faculty will submit a proposal with a budget on or before September 15 summarizing the proposed Circle’s work and its contributions to MUW’s mission of academic excellence. Only proposals with a detailed budget will be considered for funding. A presentation of outcomes will be presented at the Provost’s Symposium, which is usually held in April, along with a final written report that is due by May 15. The Circle will also present its findings as part of the semester convocation Development sessions.
Funding Information:
If awarded, support up to $500 will be provided for participants to purchase items needed for the events (books, print copies, refreshments, etc.)
Application Information:
To apply to be selected for a Teaching Circle Award, please fill out this online form that requires for the following information:
- Name of Teaching Circle
- Leaders of Teaching Circle and their primary department
- Proposed outline of activities for the academic semester
- List of readings or relevant materials to be used
- Explanation of how Circle may further MUW’s mission and/or strategic plan for student success in the classroom
- Proposed budget of the items to be purchased
- Understanding that if funded, findings will be presented at Fall Conference.
The Deadline for sending in your application is September 15. Applications after this deadline will be accepted if funds allow. The Office of Academic Affairs and the Kossen Center for Teaching and Learning are responsible for the selection process.