Spring Quarter Teaching-Learning Academy Begins April 5

The  Teaching-Learning Academy (TLA) at Western Libraries is the central forum for the scholarship of teaching and learning at Western Washington University, bringing together a broad spectrum of perspectives from throughout the university community.

TLA participants, which include students, faculty, staff, and community members, worked collectively throughout fall and winter quarters to create and explore a shared dialogue question that addresses how we can better enhance the teaching and learning environment at Western.

“How do we learn from one another through meaningful dialogue that addresses fear and creates active communities?” is the “BIG” question for 2016-2017. Action proposals that address this BIG study question will be developed during the spring quarter TLA sessions, and anyone interested is invited to attend, whether or not they were part of the fall and winter dialogue groups.

Participants continue to report that the TLA is a great way to connect with others outside of their departments, and to learn more about Western’s teaching and learning culture. Many say it also gives them a chance to take a breath and just listen to what others, especially students, really think. Others express satisfaction in being able to advance real action steps in making Western an even better place to teach and learn.

Sessions begin April 5 and 6 and meet every other week for a total of four meetings during the quarter. While the sessions are 80 minutes long, attendees are welcome to come for whatever time they have available. Many faculty and staff who cannot stay the entire time will participate for the first 50 minutes, as there is a logical break then.

There are four dialogue group options:

·        Wednesdays noon-1:20 p.m. (April 5, 19, May 3, and 17)

·        Wednesdays 2-3:20 p.m. (April 5, 19, May 3, and 17)

·        Thursdays noon-1:20 p.m. (April 6, 20, May 4, and 18)

·        Thursdays 2-3:20 p.m. (April 6, 20, May 4, and 18)

For more information, see http://library.wwu.edu/tla.  To sign up for a regular dialogue group and get on the listserv, email TLA@wwu.edu.

(Students: there is also an opportunity to participate in the TLA for LIBR practicum credit. For more information, contact Shevell.Thibou@wwu.edu.)