Teaching Connections

CTE Teaching Connections is a year-long, opt-in program designed to support new faculty at Southern Methodist University in developing effective, evidence-based teaching practices. The initiative connects new faculty with recipients of SMU teaching awards while engaging them in a structured, individualized teaching development experience facilitated by the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE).

Program Goals

  • Support new faculty in their transition to teaching at SMU
  • Foster a culture of teaching excellence through peer connection
  • Promote reflective, intentional teaching practices
  • Connect faculty with institutional resources that support student learning

Program Structure

Participants engage in three core components over one academic year:

1. Faculty Pairing and Teaching Observations

Each new faculty participant is paired with a volunteer teaching award recipient. New faculty will observe their paired faculty member’s teaching two times during the academic year. Following each observation, pairs will meet informally over a meal at an SMU dining hall to:

  • Reflect on teaching practices
  • Discuss approaches to student engagement and course design
  • Build collegial connection

2. CTE-Facilitated Teaching Development

New faculty will complete two teaching observations conducted by CTE staff. Each participant will work with a CTE faculty member to develop a customized teaching development plan, which may include:

  • Participation in CTE workshops or programs
  • Engagement in CTE initiatives (e.g., facilitation of book discussion)
  • Targeted development aligned with individual teaching goals

3. Reflection and Integration

At the conclusion of the program, participants will submit a brief reflection addressing:

  • Key insights gained from observations and discussions
  • Changes or refinements to their teaching practice
  • Future teaching development goals

Participation and Eligibility

  • Open to all faculty who are new to SMU
  • Participation is voluntary and requires a one-year commitment
  • Teaching award recipients may volunteer to serve as mentors and may support up to two participants

Incentives and Recognition

  • Teaching Award Recipients (Mentors):
    • SMU dining cards to support participant meetings
    • CTE Passport credit
  • New Faculty Participants:
    • CTE Passport credit with a unique CTE completion badge upon successful completion