Harding establishes Center for Teaching and Learning

SEARCY — Harding University has established a new Center for Teaching and Learning to help faculty members develop more effective teaching methods and continue the culture of education excellence at Harding.

The university has taken the first steps toward creating the center, which will assist faculty in adopting evidencebased, student-centered teaching strategies through professional-development workshops, seminars, consultation services and support programs. The vision is for the center to grow each year with the help of faculty and administration.

Katherine Dillion, who is an associate professor of English with more than 22 years of experience on the faculty at Harding University, has been appointed to serve as director for the center.

“I am inspired by Dr. Dillion’s passion for helping faculty and by her vision for teaching and learning with a holistic approach to faculty development,” said Marty Spears, provost. “She has a strong vision for the center as a place where faculty would go not only for professional development but also to interact with colleagues from around campus in a safe environment where they can learn from each other, share experiences and encourage one another.”

Dillion plans for the center to address ways to renew and reinvigorate faculty in order to sharpen their teaching skills while strengthening their job satisfaction. This is an investment that ultimately benefits both teachers and students.

“I have often described a teaching career as a rollercoaster ride with its many ups and downs,” Dillion said. “As a longtime veteran of teaching, I have had my share of the down part of the roller coaster; however, these down times have made me all the more determined to seek new ways to improve and share with colleagues.”