University of Baltimore Teaching Excellence Framework
The University of Baltimore faculty upholds four core values that shape our approach to teaching excellence: Strategic Course Design, Adaptable Instruction, Empowering Student Learning, and Reflective Teaching. This work is grounded in 25 years of scholarship in teaching and learning, which serves as the foundation for the nationally recognized Teaching Quality Framework. We have integrated the TQF’s original seven core dimensions of teaching into the four core value statements below, which together form the University of Baltimore Teaching Excellence Framework. The Teaching Excellence Framework is the foundation of the Promoting Instructional Excellence (PIE) program.
Strategic Course Design
We design courses that are rigorous and relevant, aligning course objectives, content, and assessments with broader curricular goals to promote teaching excellence. We employ high-quality, relevant materials and create assessments that connect directly with learning outcomes, offering a cohesive and effective educational experience. Furthermore, our instructors prepare for teaching through drawing on the latest scholarship in their fields, bringing their pedagogical skills to engage students deeply and utilizing the best resources to advance the curriculum effectively. This approach guarantees that every course element advances our students’ learning and responds to the evolving demands of our disciplines.
Adaptable Instruction
We employ evidence-based teaching methods and adaptable practices to create dynamic, engaging, and effective learning experiences. We assess the achievement of learning outcomes with a strong emphasis on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). As a result, our assessments are equitable, have well-aligned learning goals, and employ multiple forms of evidence to measure student understanding effectively. Through adaptable practices we respond proactively to the changing landscape of education, ensuring that every student’s learning experience is effective and impactful.
Empowering Student Learning
We foster inclusive and supportive learning environments where every student feels empowered, valued, engaged, and motivated. Our faculty cultivates a culture of empowerment by engaging respectfully and cooperatively with students, incorporating their feedback to motivate and support everyone. We prioritize mentoring, guiding students through academic and personal challenges, and fostering their growth through tailored support and encouragement. We create effective presentations tailored to the intended audience using various styles and organization to communicate with clarity and integrity. This approach not only enhances learning but also ensures that all messaging is delivered with the utmost respect for our student body.
Reflective Teaching
We engage in ongoing professional growth and reflective practice, recognizing that excellence in teaching is a continuous process. Faculty actively engage in critiquing their own work, using both formative and summative assessments to improve the quality of their instruction. Our faculty meaningfully contribute to teaching communities by engaging with peers through mentoring, presentations, workshops, and scholarly publications. By seeking feedback, contributing to our teaching communities, and leading by example, we strive to elevate the standards of educational excellence.
