Over the past 20 years, the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) has encouraged people to think differently about teaching.

“I believe a shift has occurred,” says Joy Mighty, Director, CTL. “Many professors are considering how they can develop and structure their courses so that students are more engaged. They see students as active partners in the learning process, and that’s a huge accomplishment.”

The CTL has fostered that shift through its many workshops and programs. However, that’s just one aspect of its efforts. The CTL’s educational developers offer expertise, advice and support to Queen’s administrators and committees as they consider issues that impact the learning environment. The educational developers work with departments as they revise and redesign their curriculum. Professors can also apply for teaching and learning enhancement grants allowing them to conduct innovative research projects focused on aspects of teaching in higher education. In addition, the CTL has spearheaded the creation of the Queen’s University Chairs in Teaching and Learning as one way of focusing on teaching as a scholarly activity.

“Teaching and learning are very complex dimensions of the educational process and there are many different variables that impact them. It is necessary to work collaboratively with many partners from across the university,” says Dr. Mighty.

The CTL will recognize its campus partners and volunteer facilitators at its 20th anniversary open house on January 16. The CTL will also acknowledge contributions and support from the Alma Mater Society and the Society of Graduate and Professional Students. Students contributed $750,000 towards an endowment which was vital to the creation of the CTL and made it unique in the world.

In addition to celebrating its achievements at the open house, the CTL hopes to engage participants in presenting their ideas about making teaching and learning a priority at Queen’s.

For more information about the open house which includes Principal Daniel Woolf’s lunch hour conversation, please visit the CTL website.