The Institute for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (ISoTL) was established by the UBC Vancouver Senate in May 2004. Its mandate is to support research, inquiry, and reflection on teaching and learning at the University of British Columbia. The following objectives currently guide specific ISoTL initiatives and programs:
- Support faculty members in engaging in reflective practices and pedagogical research in the disciplines.
- Promote the dissemination of curriculum and pedagogical research in ways that inform and enhance educational practice across the disciplines at UBC and beyond.
- Provide international leadership and collaborations for SoTL research.
- Provide training and professional development opportunities for faculty members who seek to engage in SoTL.
- Promote a culture of teaching as a scholarly activity.
Currently, the ISoTL team provides a variety of services to support SoTL activities at UBC: the SoTL Seed Program, the SoTL Linkage Grants, the SoTL Dissemination Fund; teaching and learning evaluation consultations; and workshops and events throughout the year (e.g., Annual Celebrate SoTL)..
To further its goals, the Institute is open for UBC faculty members to join as members. The intent of the membership program is to establish a formal group of experts to strengthen SoTL at UBC, who engage in independent and collaborative SoTL inquiry within and beyond the classroom, and support each other in scholarly dissemination.
Benefits of membership:
- A formal association with ISoTL.
- Participate in organized networking events with ISoTL members focused on creating collaborations and receiving peer feedback.
- Engagement in collaborative projects and writing groups.
ISoTL members agree to:
- Contribute to ISoTL events and programs. For example, serving as panelists or facilitators, as interests and schedules allow.
- Contribute to informal peer review of other members’ grant proposals and publications.
- Promote a culture of teaching as a scholarly activity within and across their discipline. For example, helping others get started with SoTL and sharing expertise.
- Participate in three membership meetings per year (once per term).
- Have their name, affiliation, email address and research interests displayed on the ISoTL website.
- Report successful SoTL grants, presentations, and publications to ISoTL for showcasing.
How to apply:
To apply, please complete this form. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis (approximately once every 3-4 months).
We anticipate a short renewal process will occur approximately every three years to ensure the relationship and engagement with ISoTL is mutually beneficial. Please reach out to the Director if you have any questions about the process or membership.