Definition of Teaching

 

The Teaching, Learning and Professional Development Center, in collaboration with the Texas Tech Teaching Academy Executive Council, has worked to develop this resource to help support the work of departments, areas and units in the process of seeking and providing peer observational feedback in teaching and learning. Our work is guided and informed by the Definition of Teaching Excellence at Texas Tech and tied to the pillars of student centered, intentional, evidence-based instruction that engages the learner actively. This definition has been endorsed by the Teaching Academy Executive Council, Chair Council, Associate Deans Council, Academic Council, the Office of the Provost, the Faculty Senate, and the Student Government Association.

Texas Tech University is committed to student-centered, intentional, evidence-based, and engaging teaching and learning. 

Examples of Teaching Definition Assessment

Student-Centered

Excellent teachers tailor learning to be collaborative (when appropriate) and fair, ensuring every student is empowered to take an active role in their own learning. They strive to create learning environments that support student success and wellness and anticipate a variety of life experiences, learning histories, identities, and perspectives. These teachers have high expectations for students and provide opportunities for them to convey their learning.

Intentional

Excellent teachers are intentional in how they design and foster the learning experience to achieve specific goals and outcomes. Over their careers, they use a variety of instructional techniques, remain receptive to improving and innovating their teaching methods, and understand that excellent teaching is reflective and evolving.

Evidence-Based

Excellent teachers are purposeful in using best teaching practices grounded in a solid understanding of pedagogy drawn from research, experience, and professional dialogue. They seek evidence to establish and track the effectiveness of teaching methods to ensure students reach learning outcomes.

Engaging

Excellent teachers help learners develop as independent, creative, and critical thinkers by actively engaging students in the learning process. These teachers develop and share their genuine interest in the topic and demonstrate the applicability of content to academic and professional pursuits.

If you are interested in learning more about the process used to establish this definition, please view history of the teaching definition. 

Questions?

For questions, please contact Courtney Meyers, Agricultural Education & Communications and Lisa Low, Public Relations & Strategic Communication Management.