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Kimberly Burnett
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As part of its ongoing commitment to student success, this year Salem State University partnered with the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) to enhance student success through teaching. The program, which complements the work of Salem State’s Center for Teaching Innovation (CTI), was launched in August when 19 educators across multiple disciplines began a national certificate program in evidence-based teaching practices shown to increase student achievement and course completion. The program concluded April 2 when a ceremony was held to award faculty members with a nationally recognized Certificate in Effective College Instruction, co-endorsed by ACUE and the American Council on Education (ACE).
“This partnership and the 17 faculty members who received certification are a testament to the dedication we all share when it comes to student success,” said CTI Director Marc Ebenfield. “The ACUE program allows small centers such as our own to offer high-quality online programming. The online modules feature empirically recognized teaching practices and are facilitated by nationally recognized scholars in teaching and learning.”
ACUE’s course is based on more than three decades of research that shows effective teaching improves learning for all students, but drives particularly strong learning outcomes for historically underrepresented students, who comprise roughly a third of Salem State’s undergraduate student body.
Aligned with the latest research in cognition and adult learning, ACUE’s Course in Effective Teaching Practices exceeds online learning standards as certified by Quality Matters. It consists of 25 learning modules that address over 200 evidence-based teaching practices and are organized into five units of study:
- designing an effective course and class
- establishing a productive learning environment
- using active learning techniques
- promoting higher order thinking
- and assessing to inform instruction and promote learning
In addition to ACUE’s online course and discussion forums, participating Salem State faculty met in person four times during the semester to discuss course techniques and teaching strategies with colleagues.
“The research is clear: High-quality instruction helps students learn more and complete their degrees,” said Penny MacCormack, Chief Academic Officer at ACUE. “We are excited to collaborate with Salem State as they continue to work to provide the highest quality learning experiences for their students.”
About ACUE
The Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) believes that all college students deserve an extraordinary education and that faculty members play a critical role in their success. In partnership with institutions of higher education nationwide, ACUE supports and credentials faculty members in the use of evidence-based teaching practices that drive student engagement, retention, and learning. Faculty members who complete ACUE’s Course in Effective Teaching Practices earn a Certificate in Effective College Instruction endorsed by the American Council on Education. ACUE’s Community of Professional Practice connects college educators from across the country through member forums, podcasts, and updates on the latest developments in the scholarship of teaching and learning. To learn more, visit acue.org.