Small Changes Learning Community

Teaching can be an isolating experience. This reading group, intended for those who have been teaching at Illinois State for over four years, allows faculty to engage in discussions, encourage peer support, build networks, and develop mentorship connections. Gain new confidence in yourself and your ability to teach! 

During the Spring semester, we will read Uncommon Sense Teaching: Practical Insights in Brain Science to Help Students Learn by Barbara Oakley as the springboard for our conversations. Student motivation and long-term retention of knowledge (e.g., ensuring concepts are not “immediately forgotten after a test”) will be key areas of focus. We will use the text to find ideas for slight changes we can make in our classes to see positive impacts on our student learning and motivation.  

Reading assignments are kept to reasonable amounts between our biweekly meetings and encouraged, though not required, for participation.  We will meet six times throughout the semester to discuss the book and support each other in our teaching across disciplines. Feel free to bring your lunch! Registration is Required.

Outcomes –
Discuss innovative teaching strategies