Overview

The modules in the Introduction unit focus on topics that directly or indirectly influence how you should design, develop, and implement your course. The concepts covered in the Introduction modules relate to all the other modules within the Orientation to College Teaching website. The introductory modules form a strong pedagogical foundation on which you can build as you progress through the series.

The first module, Writing a Philosophy of Teaching, is a highly practical exercise to help you define your teaching philosophy. Through this process, you will turn your philosophy into a document you can use for job applications and for your students' benefit. Your philosophy may change after going through some or all of the other modules, so we recommend that you revisit this module after you finish the series.

The next two modules, Teaching Styles and Learning Styles, juxtapose considerations from the teacher's and the students' points of view. These modules show how you can vary your teaching style to accommodate student needs without changing who you are as a person. They also demonstrate how you can provide strategies that allow students to take responsibility for their learning and to succeed when doing it.

The last two modules help you investigate how current issues, trends, and demographics play a role in defining general learning characteristics. More specific characteristics are discussed in the next unit. This information will help you in the process of course design.