Centers for Teaching and Learning: Investing in Your Teaching as a Graduate Student
by Sarah Pedzinski and Gabrielle Stecher | Xchanges 18.1/2, Spring 2024
Growing (and Nurturing) a SOTL Network
CTLs can also be an approachable entry into the world of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL). SOTL tends to exist on the periphery of graduate development programs, outside of Departments of Education, but it can be an important resource as you begin to develop and articulate your identity as a teacher. Since SOTL literature is a diverse genre that encompasses research-based teaching theories and practices, it can be a challenge (albeit an exciting one) to begin investigating. As an Instructional Consultant who works with graduate students in addition to full-time faculty, one of the most frequent questions I (Sarah) am asked is “Where do I begin my research?” As graduate students, we are trained in research-based inquiry, but these methods tend to be discipline-specific. Your university’s CTL can help you begin to develop the research skills necessary to engage with SOTL literature and help you connect with others interested in and engaging in SOTL research.
Universities with strong SOTL programs have a variety of opportunities for graduate development. Instructional consultants are often experts in navigating SOTL literature, and, as with other experts, part of their job duties center on staying up to date with the latest research. CTLs may promote databases or host reading groups focused on providing accessible research to faculty and graduate students. It is also common practice for CTLs to invite speakers from across the university or around the globe to discuss SOTL topics with campus audiences. These events not only provide students with support as they begin their SOTL research, but also provide valuable moments for connections with others (at your campus and beyond) who are interested in or are pursuing SOTL projects.