University Times

Learner-centered teaching and authentic learning are the topics of the fall term’s faculty book and article roundtable discussions.

The book and article discussions, now in their sixth year, are sponsored by the Center for Instructional Development and Distance Education (CIDDE) in conjunction with the Provost’s Advisory Council on Instructional Excellence.

Faculty-led book discussions are set for Oct. 19 and 21. This year’s text is the 2002 book, “Learner-Centered Teaching:  Five Key Changes to Practice,” by Penn State emeritus professor of teaching and learning Maryellen Weimer. Weimer is editor of The Teaching Professor newsletter and has written or edited eight books on teaching and learning topics. Registered participants will be provided with a copy of the book.

This year’s article discussions, set for Oct. 20 and 22, will center on the article, “Authentic Learning for the 21st Century: An Overview,” by Marilyn Lombardi, edited by Diana Oblinger.

The article explores the importance of authentic learning experiences and how such educational opportunities can be supported by technology.

Lombardi is a faculty member in Duke’s School of Nursing, where she is director of academic and strategic technology. Oblinger is president and CEO of Educause.

The article can be found at http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/ELI3009.pdf. Copies are provided to faculty who participate in the discussion.

Space in the discussions is limited. Faculty can register at www.cidde.pitt.edu by selecting “events” and choosing the desired event date from the calendar.