September 23, 2024
Each year, the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning works with OU Student Congress to host a student-led panel discussion on connecting student experience with teaching practices. These efforts helped inspire the creation of the Pedagogical Partnerships Program. Pictured from left are OU students Lance Markowitz, Andrew Cadotte, Mena Hannakachl and Clarence Sanders. |
Oakland University’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) is launching a new program that will empower students to help create high-quality, engaging learning experiences in collaboration with faculty.
The Pedagogical Partnerships Program will provide a forum for students and faculty to share ideas on how classes can be developed and facilitated to optimize student learning throughout the university.
The program will provide students with opportunities to:
- Learn the science behind great teaching
- Develop leadership and communication skills
- Build their resume
- Be recognized at a campus-wide event
The program invites undergraduate and graduate students from all majors to join the Student-Faculty Feedback Council. Those interested are asked to submit the Student Interest Form by Monday, Sept. 30.
The council will meet twice a month during the academic year to develop the program and discuss topics related to effective teaching and learning. CETL Faculty Fellow and Management Professor Cynthia Miree will facilitate the meetings, fostering an open dialogue among participants.
“The purpose of the program is for students and faculty to co-create optimal learning experiences and the only way that can truly happen is when both parties are involved in the conversation,” said Dr. Miree. “We are asking for students from all over the university, including undergraduate and graduate, because we want to get the full breadth of their experience.”
According to CETL Associate Director Christina Moore, the Pedagogical Partnership Program grew out of discussions with Oakland University Student Congress Member and CETL Student Liaison Lance Markowitz, who advocated for development of more active and engaging learning experiences for students.
“By engaging in dialogue with us and faculty across disciplines, Lance developed research-based and practical context for the shortcomings and opportunities he saw in the classroom,” said Dr. Moore. “When he began bringing that knowledge and advice into student- and faculty-facing events, we saw the incredible potential of his work and connected it to larger efforts like Pedagogical Partnerships.”
Markowitz said he was inspired to partner with CETL after noticing an attitude among students that seemed to prioritize grades over learning.
“To counter this trend, we recognized that more student voices were needed in the broader conversations on campus on teaching methodology,” said Markowitz. “This new partnership is an excellent opportunity for students to make a difference on campus, working together with faculty to help maximize learning in the classroom.”
Dr. Miree agreed, adding that one of the program’s core goals is to foster student-faculty discussions that will enhance teaching and learning at OU now and into the future.
“If you’ve ever wanted to give feedback beyond your teaching evaluations, or if you want to significantly impact the classroom experience for those who follow after you, this is an opportunity to make your voice heard,” said Dr. Miree. “We want students from across the university to share their experiences because, ultimately, their experiences are going to help move this program forward.”