During the Winter 2024 mid-term break, while classes were on pause, nine dedicated faculty members chose to further their teaching skills through the Instructional Skills Workshop (ISW) offered by NC’s Centre of Academic Excellence (CAE).
Led by the CAE’s Kate Wiley, Educational Developer in Accessibility & Inclusion, the intensive three-day workshop, held from February 26 to 27 and February 29 at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus, included participation from seven part-time and two full-time faculty members representing various academic schools.
The ISW, internationally recognized and known for its experiential approach, brought together instructors regardless of their experience levels to refine teaching practices, explore new methods, and revisit foundational principles. Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in designing and delivering lessons while offering and receiving constructive feedback from their peers. It was also an opportunity for participants to work with colleagues from other academic schools, helping build strong bonds that often last beyond the workshop.
Central to the ISW is peer-based instructional development, where participants are tasked with planning and delivering “mini-lessons” each day to generate effective feedback and discussion. Participants were encouraged to focus less on content and more on developing participatory instructional techniques and explore strategies that support powerful learning experiences among students. Participants were also encouraged to teach subjects outside their comfort zones, leading them to engage in subjects such as dance, calligraphy, and interior design, enhancing their teaching abilities while enjoying the process.
Wiley expressed her excitement in witnessing the transformation of participants into a close-knit community, highlighting the passion and dedication they demonstrated towards teaching and professional growth.
“It’s an amazing experience to see how, in just three days, a group of strangers can become close friends,” she said. “Their support of each other allows us to bring together faculty with different levels of experience and each of them take away new insights into teaching and learning. Each participant brought a deep consideration for their students, demonstrating a true dedication to teaching and professional development.”
For many participants, the opportunity to share ideas, expand teaching methods, and build connections with peers proved to be very impactful.
The final day of the ISW included a celebration of achievements and a graduation ceremony where participants were presented with ISW certificates, marking their successful completion of the program.
Below is a list of faculty members who participated in the workshop and received ISW certificates:
- Amanda Johnson – Academic & Liberal Studies
- Chris Cicchino – Media
- Elisa Romeo – Academic & Liberal Studies
- Gemma Elia – Trades
- Gillian Martin – Business Management
- Jiya Jimmy – Academic & Liberal Studies
- Joanna Gasparotto – Hospitality & Tourism
- Laura Clemente D’Agostino – School of English Studies
- Milu Chethipuzha – Technology
The CAE extends its congratulations to the nine newest ISW graduates at Niagara College and looks forward to welcoming new participants in future workshops.
