This interactive workshop will utilize core concepts and methods identified by the Teaching Effectiveness Framework (TEF) overview by focusing on the practical design and implementation of active learning and interactive classroom strategies in large-enrollment courses that do not have Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) or Learning Assistants (LAs). The session is designed specifically for faculty who teach large classes independently and are seeking realistic, sustainable approaches to improve student engagement, enhance learning, and support student success without additional instructional personnel.
The workshop will emphasize low-prep, high-impact strategies that can be implemented immediately, including in-class activities, structured discussion techniques, retrieval practice, formative assessments, and inclusive participation methods. Faculty will examine examples drawn from large-enrollment biology and biomedical science courses and will be guided through adapting these strategies to their own disciplinary contexts.
Learning Outcomes: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
-Identify active learning and interactive classroom strategies that are feasible in large-enrollment courses taught by a single instructor.
-Design in-class activities that promote student engagement and participation without reliance on GTAs or LAs.
-Implement evidence-based techniques that support student learning, motivation, and inclusivity in large classes.
-Develop a concrete plan for integrating at least one active learning or interactive strategy into a Spring or Fall course.
-Identify methods for collecting evidence of student engagement and learning to support reflection, course revision, and annual review.
Teaching Effectiveness Framework alignment: Instructional Strategies
