TLA Dialogue Questions for Spring 2019
Is obtaining an education a political act? As participants in a system of higher education, what is our responsibility to serve our local and global communities? Join students, faculty, staff, and community members as they consider questions like these during this quarter’s Teaching-Learning Academy (TLA) dialogue sessions.
No registration is required, and participants are free to drop in and join the groups even if they cannot stay for the entire session.
All of the questions were created under the leadership and direction of the TLA facilitators, who are all students at Western. Each session gives participants the opportunity to consider a new topic related to teaching & learning that is both timely and relevant. Three of the dialogue questions this quarter are offered in affiliation with the Western Reads program, and are designed to complement specific selections from the book, Octavia’s Brood: Science Fiction Stories from Social Justice Movements.
The goals of each dialogue session are to share well-rounded views related to teaching and learning, while encouraging the use of listening to understand and appreciate differences, and promoting open-mindedness and mutual respect for diverse perspectives.
Dates and questions are listed below:
- Apr 10 & 11: Is obtaining an education a political act? *This question was originally scheduled during winter quarter and was cancelled during that time due to inclement weather.
- Apr 24 & 25: How can universities foster an equitable environment that supports people of all abilities—physical, mental, and emotional? *This question is affiliated with the 2018-2019 Western Reads, Octavia’s Brood: Science Fiction Stories from Social Justice Movements, chapter “Little Brown Mouse.”
- May 8 & 9: How has colonial capitalism impacted your experience at WWU and in the community? *This question is affiliated with the 2018-2019 Western Reads, Octavia’s Brood: Science Fiction Stories from Social Justice Movements, chapter “The River.”
- May 22 & 23: As participants in a system of higher education, what is our responsibility to serve our local and global communities? *This question is affiliated with the 2018-2019 Western Reads, Octavia’s Brood: Science Fiction Stories from Social Justice Movements, chapter “Black Angel.”
Please Note: There will also be an additional off-campus TLA session held during spring quarter, details coming soon.*
Participants in TLA consistently report that the dialogue sessions provide a great way to connect with others outside of their disciplines and 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.
For more information, see http://library.wwu.edu/tla. To sign up for the TLA listserv, email TLA@wwu.edu. (Students: there is also an opportunity to participate in the TLA for LIBR 340 “Speaking and Listening” practicum credit. For more information, contact: Shevell.Thibou@wwu.edu.)