HILT 2018 Conference: Framing the day | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Implementing the science of learning can enhance the art of teaching, leading to high-quality education.

Transcript

So I'm going to try to offer a few remarks to frame the day and give a little context for the arc of the day. And I want to start with a strong assumption, which is that no one-- no one has as their goal that there be poor quality teaching at Harvard. Students don't want poor quality teaching. Parents certainly don't. Deans don't, department chairs... Read More

Key Insights

• ✋ Everyone at Harvard desires high-quality teaching and education.
• 💁 The science of learning can inform and improve instructional practices.
• 🎨 Instructors have a responsibility to make deliberate choices in designing learning experiences.
• 🔬 Training and support in the science of learning can help instructors enhance their teaching skills.
• ⚾ There should be a focus on implementing evidence-based approaches in teaching.
• 💁 The scholarship of teaching and learning can contribute valuable knowledge to inform instructional practices.
• ✋ High-quality teaching is essential for students to acquire new knowledge and skills.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the importance of high-quality teaching at Harvard?

High-quality teaching is crucial for ensuring students receive the best education possible and have the opportunity to develop new knowledge and skills.

Q: Why do some instructors lack explicit training in effective teaching methods?

Many instructors have not received proper training in teaching, which is a mistake considering the responsibility they have in shaping students' learning experiences.

Q: Does implementing the science of learning improve student learning?

The science of learning provides evidence-based approaches to teaching that can enhance student learning outcomes and improve the effectiveness of instructional practices.

Q: How can Harvard make improvements in teaching and learning?

Harvard can make interventions at institutional, departmental, school, and individual levels by providing training and resources on the science of learning and supporting instructors in implementing evidence-based instructional practices.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• No one at Harvard wants poor quality teaching; everyone, including students, parents, and instructors, desires high-quality education.

• While there are some excellent examples of teaching at Harvard, there is room for improvement in many cases.

• Harvard should strive to offer the best educational experience possible for students.