The Making of a Teaching Center: Insights from the Frontlines

Abstract

This article provides a detailed roadmap for the process of establishing and launching a center for teaching and learning (CTL) at a large research university, with particular emphasis on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and organizational development. Drawing from our firsthand experiences, we document key decisions and milestones in creating our institution’s CTL, the UA Teaching Academy, including securing administrative support, determining organizational structure and funding models, and building campus-wide partnerships. The development process highlights the importance of strategic alignment with institutional priorities, thoughtful faculty governance, and evidence-based decision-making. By sharing specific insights about the establishment process, structural decisions, and early implementation challenges, this article aims to provide practical guidance and insights for institutions seeking to establish or enhance their own CTLs.

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