CTLE Website

Webinars/Faculty Panels

Faculty Development Day

CTLE Initiatives

Artificial Intelligence

Faculty Fellows

Faculty Advisory Board

SESL

Message From The Director

Table Of Contents

CTLE Team 2023 - 2024

Candace Roberts, PH.D.

Executive Director of CTLE

Greg Kunzweiler, M.ED

Associate Direcotr of CTLE

Kari Cremer

Digital Communications Project Manager

Issys Salazar, MSID

Teaching and Learning Specialist

Marcela van Olphen, Ph.D.

Teaching and Learning Specialist

Emily Kochanski

Simulation Specialist

Jessica Atkinson

Part - Time Simulation Specialist

Mission

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence is dedicated to the advancement of teaching and learning at Saint Leo University. We serve as a resource for the academic community and a catalyst for the pursuit of pedagogical knowledge, research-based instructional practices, and scholarship, resulting in academic success for all who teach and learn at Saint Leo University.

Guiding Principles

    1. There are many ways to teach well. We support intellectual inquiry, the scholarship of teaching and learning, and instructors’ unique exploration and application of evidence-based practices.
    2. Faculty development is most effective when driven by faculty needs and interests.
    3. When faculty members share successful practice and scholarship, we grow as a community of educators. To support pedagogical growth, scholarship, and the free exchange of ideas, the center supports faculty collaboration through small and large communities of inquiry as well as through university-wide programming.
    4. The Center encourages supportive, inclusive, and learner-centered teaching practices.
    5. The Center provides research-based programs and resources to support pedagogical growth and practice in all applicable teaching modalities, and for all levels of instructors including adjunct, assistant, associate, and full professors.
    6. The Center honors the diversity, abilities, and contributions of all Saint Leo faculty.
    7. The Center encourages and supports responsible, inquiry-based risk-taking and innovation.
    8. The Center cultivates a welcoming, collegial learning environment predicated on mutual respect and trust.
    9. The Center provides non-evaluative, confidential support through observation and teaching consultation.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence offers crucial support and materials to Saint Leo faculty. Its website aims to aid faculty members, whether they’re novices or veterans, in their teaching endeavors, whether conducted online or in-person. CTLE’s goal is to provide faculty with evidence-based initiatives and materials, creative teaching strategies, foster collaboration and camaraderie among faculty, and support academic success for both faculty and students. 

Our website saw strong engagement this year, with over 32,000 total views and 7,700 users. We’ve also been diligent about adding fresh content, publishing over 30 new pages covering relevant topics like AI, Radical Hospitality, and Inclusive Teaching. 

In addition to the new content, we’ve made significant improvements to the website’s infrastructure. We’ve migrated to a WordPress platform, making the site easier to manage and update. We’ve also added an option to download a Faculty Transcript, which provides a collection of professional development that an individual faculty member has engaged in with CTLE over the past year.  This transcript can be a valuable resource for faculty portfolios. 

Website Information

Over 32,000 Views this year
30 New Content Pages

300+ AI Resources and Links

What's New Page

CTLE provides a wealth of insightful articles and practical tools to support excellence in teaching, learning, and the overall higher education experience.

Over 7,700 Users

Our website saw strong engagement this year.

Anonymous SLU Faculty
I have been able to locate information I need, and in some cases, I'm presented with information I didn't know I needed. Also, you guys are good at staying on top of trending information, such as ChatGPT, which makes my life easier because I can read/attend your stuff.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
I am a new faculty member and found CTLE's resources to be very helpful for someone who is new to Saint Leo.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
I think the offerings of the CTLE are great! I haven't been able to try them all.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
CTLE - Keep doing what you are doing.
Untitled design - 2024-07-25T153142.590

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) at Saint Leo University hosts two virtual Faculty Development Day (FDD) events each year, one in the fall and one in the spring. These half-day events provide valuable opportunities for faculty members to collaborate, learn, and share best practices on various topics related to teaching, learning, and student engagement.

Fall 2023 – Teach for the Future
The Fall 2023 FDD, titled “Teach for the Future,” emphasized the crucial role instructors play in influencing student learning and development to prepare them for success in an ever-changing world. The event aimed to bring together Saint Leo’s faculty and unite them in their commitment to equipping students with the skills and knowledge to navigate the future. Instructors have the potential to create an equitable learning environment and provide opportunities for all students to thrive. They can inspire students to innovate, think critically, reflect, and work collaboratively with others. Sharing best practices with colleagues helps achieve excellence in teaching and ensures students are supported and equipped for what the future holds.

Spring 2024 – Rethinking Teaching in a Changing World
The Spring 2024 FDD, themed “Rethinking Teaching in a Changing World,” explored how educators can encourage students to cultivate their curiosity and assume responsibility for their education. The goal was to ignite faculty curiosity and inspire new teaching and learning approaches. CTLE introduced a new enhancement to the virtual FDD experience with the Zoom Events platform, offering participants a more immersive and interactive conference experience. In the midst of reimagining teaching within our rapidly changing world, CTLE recognizes the unprecedented pace at which education is evolving. The FDD tracks and topics mirror these dynamic shifts, inviting faculty to share their insights, experiences, and strategies that will elevate Saint Leo’s teaching and empower students for success in this ever-evolving world.

These biannual events consistently receive positive feedback from faculty members, who value the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from various colleges, departments, and disciplines. The FDD events energize and inspire the faculty community, preparing them to take on the upcoming semester with renewed enthusiasm and innovative teaching approaches.

Fall 2023 - Teach for the Future

134 Attendees

127 Attendees

The Fall 2023 Faculty Development Day (FDD) event provided a virtual half-day conference for Saint Leo University faculty to collaborate, learn, and share best practices on preparing students for success in an ever-changing world.

The event highlighted the essential role instructors play in influencing student learning and development, emphasizing their potential to level the playing field and inspire innovation, critical thinking, and collaborative work. Discussions focused on strategies for creating equitable learning environments, fostering student curiosity and responsibility, and leveraging innovative teaching methods.

By offering a collaborative platform, the FDD energized and inspired the Saint Leo faculty community, who valued the opportunity to explore new approaches that will empower students to excel in an ever-evolving world.

Top 3 Most Attended Sessions for Fall 2023 FDD

Quizizz - A FREE Alternative to Kahoot!

40 Attendees

Ten Interesting Findings in Saint Leo Data, Revisited and Updated

38 Attendees

Guided by Curiosity: Reimagining your Learner-Centered Activities

31 Attendees

Spring 2024 - Rethinking Teaching in a Changing World

The Spring 2024 Faculty Development Day (FDD) event at Saint Leo University provided a virtual platform for faculty to come together and explore new possibilities for teaching and learning in an ever-evolving world. Recognizing the rapid changes in education, this FDD event encouraged participants to embrace the challenges and opportunities with optimism, creativity, and a commitment to the transformative power of education.

To enhance the virtual FDD experience, CTLE introduced the Zoom Events platform. This new conference tool allowed participants to seamlessly navigate the event, explore session details, build their personalized itinerary, and engage with their peers. Attendees were able to familiarize themselves with the platform in advance, getting a sneak peek of the sessions and presenters, and exploring the various interactive features.

Top 3 Most Attended Sessions for Spring 2024 FDD

Ai Productivity Hacks

29 Attendees

An Introduction into Appreciative Advising: Enhancing Student Success

21 Attendees

Classroom Culture and Student Engagement: What We Know and Can Do

20 Attendees

Anonymous SLU Faculty
I learned about new technologies and ways to use technology that I did not know before. But most importantly it allows me to connect with colleagues for support and exchange of ideas. Especially as a faculty member who was formerly attached to a center, but now has to float fully online. Faculty Development Day has become doubly important to me.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
CTLE has been a godsend trying to stay one step ahead of faculty needs. They have effectively provided a lot of resources for faculty from webinars to individual help.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Building connections with colleagues is the most important thing. Learning what colleagues do to build community online-- a type of community that will increase engagement beyond the required activities.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Learning about resources, teaching methodologies and administrative processes. I appreciate the help given.

The CTLE has embraced the power of social media to connect with our Saint Leo faculty members, disseminate crucial information, and foster a vibrant community of teaching and learning enthusiasts. 

We maintain an active presence across multiple platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Viva Engage, serving as a hub for updates, news, and insights into CTLE’s activities and initiatives. Through these channels, we can post the latest updates from our website, promoting professional development opportunities and offering valuable tips and resources for navigating the digital learning landscape. 

CTLE also utilizes our YouTube channel to post webinars and faculty panel recordings so faculty members can view and revisit our professional development opportunities anytime. View our recordings here.

Whether responding to queries, gathering feedback, or facilitating discussions, social media provides CTLE with an avenue to engage with faculty members in a manner that is both convenient and accessible. 

 

Viva Engage
597 Faculty Members and 472 Active Members
YouTube
1.4k views on YouTube channel
LinkedIn
Visitors from the United Kingdom, Canada, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates

CTLE offers Courses for Teaching and Learning (CTLs), which are professional development courses tailored to the unique needs of Saint Leo’s faculty to provide a pathway for continuous learning. Upon completing a CTL, participants are awarded a digital badge and earn points on the Faculty Leaderboard, documenting their commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. 

CTLs are self-paced, offering the freedom to engage with course material at one’s convenience. While most CTLs can be completed within an hour, a select few delve deeper into specialized topics, providing enriching experiences that end in a culminating artifact professors can utilize. 

Through the CTLE website, faculty members can explore a comprehensive listing of available courses. Each course title is accompanied by a detailed description, empowering faculty to make informed decisions regarding their professional journey. A user-friendly registration form and the open-enrollment process make it easy for faculty to register anytime.

In response to the needs of faculty members, the CTLE proudly unveiled two new courses this year, CTL 117 AI in Higher Education: What Professors Need to Know and CTL 210 Inclusive Teaching Practices. These two CTLs were meticulously designed in response to emerging trends in higher education, equipping faculty with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the ever-changing teaching and learning landscape. 

96 Faculty Have successfully completed a CTL this year!
137 Faculty enrolled in CTL 110 Teaching at Saint Leo

New and Updated CTLs Launched in Spring 2024

18 CTL Professional Development Courses Available to Faculty

New SESL Website

The Simulated Experiences at Saint Leo has been hard at work this year. In addition to all the simulations performed, a lot is happening behind the scenes as well. The SESL website and social media are undergoing an extreme makeover. A new website featuring 8 pages of information about simulation at SESL was built and launched. It showcases images of avatars, environments, and scenarios, highlights our partnerships, and details the equipment requirements for using the simulations.

A total of 52 simulations were performed in the past year which included 12 from our partners at Tuskegee University, 7 from Weber State University faculty, 7 from faculty at Florida Gulf Coast University, 22 from our very own Saint Leo faculty, and 4 from our campus admissions team. When they are not using the simulations in their classrooms, many SLU faculty are helping to promote their usage. Recently Sim Specialists were collaborating with professors Austin Trantham, Valerie Kasper, and Cristina Reinert to craft an article for the Florida Scholarly Review that details the usage of simulations in a variety of courses as well as the effectiveness of virtual roleplay experiences as a teaching tool.

Our simulation partners have been singing our praises as well. At the end of the Spring semester, the faculty at Florida Gulf Coast University chose to renew their contract and purchase another 80 hours of simulation time for the next two academic years, noting their appreciation for the efforts of the Simulation Specialist. “She is intuitive, flexible, and a joy to work with,” commented instructor Jamie Shaffer.

Our plan for 2024 – 2025 is to effectively market the Simulated Experiences to both incoming Saint Leo faculty and to educators and employers beyond the University. Thanks to a collaboration with Holly Atkins, TQP Teach Quality Partnership Grant, and the College of Education we expect to see an increase in partnerships and participation with Florida schools

Current Partnerships with SESL

Austin Trantham
Austin Trantham
Speaking directly with the avatar dramatically improved the quality and level of interaction amongst students.
Valerie Kasper
Valerie Kasper
It is more difficult for students to learn to think on their feet or critically think when role-playing with other students. Simulated Experiences bridge this gap by incorporating virtual avatars controlled by human actors. This innovative approach allows students to interact with a realistic character, playing a specific role, which fosters a more authentic and engaging learning experience.
Christina Reinert
Christina Reinert
Many students not only found the simulation invaluable but also enjoyable, as it provided them with a glimpse into their prospective profession and the challenges that they could face in Human Services. The simulation became a platform where theory seamlessly intersected with practical application, empowering students to develop critical skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities essential for success in their chosen field.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) at Saint Leo University remains committed to fostering continuous professional growth and excellence in teaching. During the 2023-2024 academic year, CTLE organized webinars and faculty panel discussions, providing cross-disciplinary platforms for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and skill development. Recognizing the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, CTLE made a concerted effort to provide faculty with the latest information on this emerging technology. Several webinars and panels were dedicated to exploring various aspects of AI integration in the classroom, such as leveraging AI for personalized learning, ethical considerations, and the impact on assessment and grading practices.

In addition to the AI-focused events, CTLE hosted a diverse range of webinars and panels tailored to the specific needs of different faculty groups. These included sessions on the new eLion self-service platform, webinars directed toward AVENU faculty, events for new faculty and adjuncts, and discussions on fostering radical hospitality in the classroom. CTLE also organized an unconference, a collaborative learning event open to all faculty members. These interactive sessions covered a wide array of topics, from active learning strategies and educational technology tools to instructor wellness and building classroom communities. Faculty panelists shared their experiences, best practices, and insights, fostering rich discussions and collaborations across disciplines, aligning with Saint Leo University’s mission of providing a student-centered learning environment.

Total Number of CTLE Webinars

18

Number of AI webinars and Panels

11

Total of Attendees of all events

333

Most Popular Webinars

AI Best Practices and Challenges in Higher Ed - AVENU

60 Attendees

AI at Saint Leo - AVENU

45 Attendees

Walkthrough of the New eLion

35 Attendees

Integrating AI with Ethical and Pedagogical Excellence

The Faculty Fellows Program, sponsored by Academic Affairs and administered by the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE), embodies our commitment to integrating AI into higher education with a strong emphasis on ethical practices and student-centered learning. This program aims to enhance Faculty Fellows’ (FFs) teaching methodologies and enrich the learning experience for our students. Grounded in Saint Leo’s Core Values and Benedictine traditions, the Faculty Fellows Program supports faculty incorporating AI into their pedagogical practices while maintaining ethical standards.

The program is structured into two cohorts consisting of faculty members from diverse disciplinary backgrounds. The first cohort began in January 2024 (seven participants) and will continue through December 2024, while the second cohort will start in Fall 2024, and extend through Spring 2025.

Program Highlights and Achievements:

The first cohort, which concluded its initial semester in May 2024, has made significant strides in achieving the program’s goals. FFs have generated innovative ideas for AI integration and have begun implementing these concepts through various initiatives. Key accomplishments include:

    • Special Interest Groups (SIGs): Some faculty members have established SIGs, fostering collaborative exploration of AI applications within their disciplines.
    • Classroom Activities: Fellows have created AI-integrated classroom activities, enhancing student engagement and critical thinking.
    • Workshops and Webinars: Fellows have conducted workshops for both students and faculty, disseminating best practices for ethical AI use in educational settings.

These initiatives not only reflect the program’s success but also underscore the faculty’s dedication to advancing pedagogical practices and enriching the educational experience at Saint Leo.

We look forward to the continued contributions of our Faculty Fellows in shaping the future of higher education, leveraging AI responsibly, and upholding the values that define our institution.

 

Faculty Fellows' 2023 - 2024

Asset 3

Dr. Laura Ault

Associate professor of psychology, Department of Social Sciences, Colleges of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services (CASAS)

Dr. Cheryl Berry

Instructor of biology and life sciences, Department of Natural Sciences, CASAS

Dr. Kenny Embry

Associate professor of communications and marketing, Department of Communication, Management, & Marketing, Tapia College of Business (TCOB)

Dr. Valerie Kasper

Associate professor of English/professional writing, Department of Language Studies and the Arts, CASAS

Dr. Tonya Mazur

Assistant professor of management, Department of Communication, Management, & Marketing, TCOB

Dr. Iona Sarieva

Associate professor of English and director of the Bridge Program, Department of Language Studies and the Arts, CASAS

Dr. Jacci White

Professor of mathematics, Department of Mathematics, College of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science (CARDS)

In August 2023, the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) hosted Saint Leo University’s first AI Symposium. This groundbreaking event aimed to educate faculty and adjunct instructors about the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating artificial intelligence into higher education.

The symposium featured 10 speakers from Saint Leo’s faculty who led informative sessions on a range of AI-related topics. These included an introduction to AI’s role in higher education, academic integrity concerns,  and AI detection tools, designing authentic assessments to mitigate cheating, and practical strategies for using AI in course assignments, lesson planning, and overall course design.

The well-attended event drew 115 participants who gained valuable insights through hands-on examples and AI practice activities. By proactively addressing the rising presence of AI, the symposium equipped Saint Leo educators with essential knowledge to navigate this technological shift ethically and effectively in their teaching.

The pioneering AI Symposium exemplified CTLE’s commitment to professional development and its leadership in preparing faculty for emerging trends in education. It marked an important first step in the university’s ongoing exploration of AI’s role in enhancing learning outcomes and the student experience.

10 SLU Faculty Speakers

Providing Faculty with an overview of the possible benefits and challenges of AI in higher education.
115 Attendees
  • Topics Discussed
  • Intro to AI in Higher Ed
  • Academic Integrity and AI Detectors
  • Authentic Assessment that Mitigate Student Cheating
  • Teaching with AI: Course Assignments, Lesson Planning, and Course Design
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
The hands-on active learning exercises using ChatGPT and related programs during the Symposium allowed me to gain a better understanding of how it can be integrated into everyday classroom activities.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
It was interesting to see so many different ways to use AI. I'd love to do this regularly to learn more.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Collaborating with faculty was great. It helps me work with them on course design.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Thank you for keeping it positive and inspiring.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Learning from other faculty and learning new practices and strategies.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) has significantly expanded its website offerings with the addition of 16 new webpages dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI). This comprehensive set of AI webpages provides valuable information and resources to keep Saint Leo University faculty, staff, and adjuncts informed and up to date on AI and its applications in teaching and learning.

One key section offers general information about AI, including explanations of different formats such as perplexity, Gemini, and ChatGPT. These pages provide insights into the underlying technology of AI systems. The section also provides an overview of various AI platforms and includes how-to guides for effectively utilizing each one.

The new webpages include a wealth of resources related to academic integrity and teaching with AI. Faculty and adjuncts can access scholarly articles, videos, and other materials addressing ethical considerations and best practices for incorporating AI into coursework and research.

Additionally, the CTLE has curated discipline-specific resources exploring the unique applications and implications of AI across various academic fields. These pages serve as a valuable starting point for educators and researchers seeking to understand and leverage AI within their respective areas of study.

Overall, the CTLE’s new AI webpages represent a significant effort to provide comprehensive information, guidance, and resources to support the effective understanding and use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning for Saint Leo University faculty, staff, and adjuncts.

CTLE Initiatives

CTLE’s ThankaProfessor initiative continues to grow as it provides an opportunity for students to express their gratitude to faculty members who made a difference for them. Students used a link or QR code to access a form to submit a Thank You message to one or more professors. The CTLE received the message and sent it to the professor. The initiative began during the last few weeks of Spring semester and closed after our commencement ceremonies.

Student Services and Student Success helped us get the word out by posting information on their student newsletter, dorm bulletins, and the student cafeteria, encouraging students to take a moment to show gratitude. Learning Design posted the initiative on the D2L dashboard, where students accessed their online courses. Student Success leveraged the university’s chatbot, Leona, to help extend our reach to every corner of the student body. With Leona’s assistance, students received gentle reminders and nudges to take part in this act of radical hospitality. 

At this year’s commencement ceremony with the help of the Registrar’s office, the Thank-a-Professor message was posted on flyers at the check-in tables. Giving students one final chance to express their gratitude.  

Over 340 heartfelt submissions poured in, each a testament to the profound impact our professors have on the lives of their students. From heartfelt anecdotes to simple expressions of gratitude, each message served as a reminder of the impact of Radical Hospitality. 

 

341 student submissions

193 students accessed the form via email

196 students accessed the form via D2L

CTLE Collaboration

Student Affairs, Student Success, EdSights, Learning Design, and Registrar departments 

Dr. Elizabeth Ruegg
Dr. Elizabeth Ruegg
What an absolutely lovely surprise to receive these kind "Thank a Professor" notes. I love this initiative, and thank you so much for thinking of it. I can't imagine anything else so motivating and heartwarming for tired faculty at the end of a hard year. Warmly - E
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
The little thank you notes from my students really made my day. I was surprised how touched I was. After a long hard year, that was the best medicine.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Teaching gives me so much joy and I am glad my student recognized me. I am honored to be a part of his academic journey and I pray he soars higher!
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Thank you for forwarding the message to me. It makes me proud to know I am making a difference in a student's educational journey.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Thank you so much for sharing and thanks to CTLE for providing this great initiative!
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
I am so grateful to you for sharing this with me. Made my day, week and month! Thank you.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Indeed, this message brightened my day and my mission of exchanging knowledge. Thank you for sharing.
Anonymous SLU Faculty
Anonymous SLU Faculty
I am very happy to impact positively the students in my class, it is always the goal as professor.

At Saint Leo University, our commitment to “Radical Hospitality” is deeply rooted in our Benedictine tradition. This approach fosters a unique and welcoming learning environment where inclusivity, respect, and support for every student are paramount. Faculty members actively cultivate a collaborative atmosphere, encouraging students to share experiences and engage in meaningful projects. By prioritizing critical, creative, and ethical thinking, we create a safe space that nurtures both academic growth and personal development. 

 

CTLE Hosted

Two webinars on Radical Hospitality

Email Guides

CTLE created email guides for faculty to help engage and encourage absent and struggling students

Although the primary mission of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence is to support faculty in their journey towards teaching and learning excellence, upon special request, the CTLE hosted an impactful staff event on May 29, 2024, focused on leveraging artificial intelligence in higher education. The comprehensive 3-hour training session, titled “Leveraging AI for University Staff,” was designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of executive assistants, support staff, and other interested employees in AI applications. Held from 9 a.m. to noon in the Student Community Center boardrooms, the event featured a diverse and engaging agenda. Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of generative AI, including its functionality and potential applications in their roles. The session also addressed crucial ethical considerations and responsible AI use, emphasizing privacy and data security. A key highlight of the event was the hands-on experience provided with popular AI tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot. Through guided activities and group exercises, attendees explored practical ways to integrate these tools into their daily tasks, from drafting emails and creating meeting agendas to generating document summaries. The training delved into advanced topics such as using AI for time management, improving communication, and enhancing overall productivity. Real-world examples and case studies were presented, demonstrating the tangible benefits of AI in university operations. Additionally, the session looked ahead to emerging AI technologies and future trends, encouraging participants to envision innovative applications in their work.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) remains steadfast in its commitment to providing high-quality support to faculty members across all departments at Saint Leo University. The CTLE team works tirelessly to ensure that faculty have the necessary tools, knowledge, and guidance to deliver exceptional educational experiences for students. One of the primary ways CTLE supports faculty is through personalized one-on-one consultations. These sessions, available in-person, via email, or online, allow CTLE’s experienced staff to collaborate with faculty on a wide range of topics. From refining teaching strategies and navigating learning management systems to creating effective assessments and addressing various challenges, CTLE’s consultations empower faculty to enhance their teaching practices and leverage technology to improve student learning.

         During the 2023 – 2024 academic year, 137 faculty consultations were provided. In addition to the personalized support, CTLE offers a comprehensive suite of online resources and training materials on its website. Faculty members can access a variety of Courses for Teaching and Learning (CTLs), webinars, and video tutorials covering topics such as powerful pedagogical practices, teaching with Microsoft 365, and building classroom community and active learning and other innovative approaches. These resources enable faculty to continuously develop their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methodologies.

          Recognizing that each faculty member has unique needs and preferences, CTLE strives to provide personalized support and resources tailored to individual requirements. By working closely with faculty, CTLE can help them achieve their teaching goals and, in turn, provide exceptional learning experiences for Saint Leo’s students. Through its multifaceted support system, CTLE empowers faculty to become more confident and effective educators, ultimately contributing to the university’s mission of delivering transformative educational opportunities.

The Faculty Leaderboard at Saint Leo University serves as an innovative platform to recognize and reward faculty engagement in professional development activities through the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE). This dynamic visual representation celebrates the collective efforts of the faculty community to enhance their teaching practices and advance their pedagogical knowledge. By participating in a diverse range of CTLE programs, including webinars, faculty panels, Teaching and Learning Conversation groups, Courses for Teaching and Learning, Faculty Development Days, and the Faculty Fellows program, faculty members can earn points for their involvement. Whether attending, presenting, or applying and reflecting on the content learned, each contribution is valued and documented on the Leaderboard.  This tool  allows faculty to track their professional development journey, and provides a personalized transcript of their involvement. The Leaderboard also cultivates a spirit of friendly competition, inspiring faculty across departments and colleges to actively participate in professional development activities. This collaborative approach not only benefits individual faculty members but also positively impacts student outcomes and the overall success of Saint Leo University. By championing faculty development through the innovative Faculty Leaderboard, the CTLE demonstrates its unwavering commitment to supporting the growth and success of Saint Leo’s esteemed faculty, ultimately enhancing the universities culture of pedagogical excellence. 

The Faculty Advisory Board (FAB) fulfills a critical function within the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) as the leading consulting body that provides insights on faculty perspectives and insights. Board members leverage firsthand experiences to advise on CTLE’s portfolio of programming and services. The FAB’s counsel is invaluable, ensuring offerings are tailored to address the evolving needs of faculty.

The FAB offers candid assessments that guide the refinement and continuous improvement of CTLE’s activities. Members frequently contribute as content experts by providing feedback via surveys, moderating, and facilitating sessions at CTLE’s events and development initiatives. Reflecting the diversity of the institution’s academic workforce, the FAB comprises faculty and instructors representing all schools/colleges and instructional modalities. With members embodying the spectrum of faculty experiences, the FAB enables the CTLE’s operations to be inclusive and responsive to the needs of all university faculty.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) conducted an annual survey of its Faculty Advisory Board (FAB) members to gather feedback on the center’s strengths, areas for improvement, and future initiatives. The survey provides valuable insights from faculty representatives across the university, helping to ensure that CTLE’s offerings and support remain aligned with evolving faculty needs.

Some highlights from the survey are as follows:

  • All respondents (100%) rated the CTLE as “extremely impactful” on the faculty.
  • Respondents found the CTLE team, Faculty Development Days, and self-paced learning offerings like the Courses for Teaching and Learning to be highly valued and to be the CTLE’s top strengths.
  • FAB members anticipate upcoming challenges to include the impact of AI on teaching and learning, budget/staffing constraints, keeping up with technology changes, and low attendance at events.
  • FAB members see their role as providing advice, sharing information with colleagues, reporting on CTLE initiatives, and serving on workgroups.
amy
Amy Harris, MLS
Austin
Austin Trantham, Ph.D.
Charlotte
Charlotte Braziel, DCJ.
Cheryl
Cheryl Berry, D.ED
Deb
Debra Peterson Ph.D.,RN,CNE
Frank (1)
Francis Orlando, M.A.
Harsha (1)
Harsha Perera, Ph.D.
Jacquelyn
Jacquelyn White, Ph.D.
Kate
Kate Wittrock, M.ED.
keith-1
Keith Jones, Ph.D.
khalilah
Khalilah Louis-Caines, Ph.D.
Leon
Leon Mohan, Ph.D.
Lisa
Lisa Delgado Brown, Ph.D.
Michael-1
Michael Campbell, Ph.D., MSW
Monika
Monika Kiss, Ph.D.
Pam
Pam Painter Decius, M.L.A
Patrick (2)
Patrick Sheridan, Ph.D.
Tonya
Tonya Mazur, DBA
valerie (1)
Valerie Kasper, Ph.D.

The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CTLE) conducts an annual end-of-year survey to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness and impact of its professional development programs, instructional support services, and educational resources. This survey is a vital assessment tool for gathering direct feedback from faculty who have utilized the Center’s offerings throughout the academic year.

The survey data enables the CTLE to make evidence-based decisions regarding continuing, modifying, or discontinuing specific programs based on their demonstrated outcomes and alignment with institutional priorities. Moreover, it identifies opportunities to enhance communication strategies and resource accessibility and supports infrastructure to optimize utilization and impact.

By leveraging faculty perspectives, the end-of-year survey empowers the CTLE to address emergent needs, implement targeted improvements, and ensure its offerings remain aligned with the evolving needs of instructors. This assessment approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in teaching and learning across the institution.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Satisfaction Levels: Faculty reported high satisfaction levels (86% were extremely satisfied or satisfied) with the CTLE’s offerings, particularly in areas like Faculty Development Days, Courses for Teaching and Learning (CTLs), and webinars.
  2. Resource Utilization: The CTLE website is frequently accessed by faculty, with resources on teaching strategies, course design, and technology integration being among the most utilized.
  3. Social Media Engagement: While faculty engage with CTLE’s social media channels, there is an opportunity to increase the frequency and impact of social media content.
  4. Professional Development Impact: Many faculty reported that CTLE’s professional development opportunities positively impacted their teaching practices this year.
  5. Emerging Trends: Faculty are strongly interested in receiving training and support related to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications in teaching and learning.
  6. Scheduling Preferences: Faculty expressed preferences for professional development offerings on specific days and times, allowing the CTLE to optimize scheduling for maximum participation.

Overall, the survey results highlight CTLE’s strengths in delivering high-quality professional development opportunities and resources. At the same time, areas for improvement and emerging trends, such as AI integration, have been identified, providing valuable guidance for the CTLE’s future planning and resource allocation.

Tech Tip Tuesday

D2L Gradebook Tips

Tuesday, December 3rd at 1:00 PM

Follow these steps to join Faculty Development Day!

1. Log into OKTA First!

2. Join Zoom Events

3. Enter the Zoom Events Lobby and Choose Your Itinerary

4. Joint “Opening Remarks” Session at 8:30 AM

5. Enjoy the Fally 2024 Faculty Development Day