Faculty completes year-long training
For the second year, Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) professors had the opportunity to receive extra credentials to help provide a better educational environment for students.
Fifteen professors participated in a year-long training created by The Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) and were celebrated on Aug. 29, in the Memorial Student Union Building ballroom for their achievements.
ACUE offers multiple trainings that include a year-long credential for Effective Teaching Practices and three, eight-week micro credentials for Inclusive Teaching for Equitable Learning, Inspiring Inquiry and Preparing Lifelong Learners, and for Designing Learner-Centered and Equitable Courses.
Dr. Jaya Goswami, associate vice president for Academic Affairs, thinks this an opportunity all professors should take.
“Through a three-year grant secured by the Texas A&M University System and a partnership with the ACUE, the Office of the Provost was happy to offer our faculty members the opportunity to enroll in ACUE’s course in Effective Teaching Practices, free of cost to them,” Goswami said.
The ACUE trainings provide more than just a credential but also provide skills that will elevate the education professors deliver.
Dr. Norma Guzman, professor of Bilingual Education, participated in the Effective Teaching Practices and the Inclusive Teaching for Equitable Learning trainings.
“As an educator, and life-long learner, this professional development opportunity provided me with an opportunity to review and revise my teaching practices,” Professor Guzman said. “Each module included research-based practices that I was able to implement into my teaching to increase student engagement and success.”
To enhance students’ education, faculty was encouraged and invited to participate in the yearlong certification.
“I believe it is essential for all TAMUK professors to participate in ACUE because so many of our students are first-generation students. They need to be reassured that they belong here,” Associate Professor of English Dr. Jody Marin said.
Marin served as one of the participating professors in the Inclusive Teaching for Equitable Learning training.
“Additionally, ACUE rejuvenates you as an educator and reminds you that you are here to help your students succeed and become better citizens,” Marin said.
ACUE program trainees were celebrated and received certificates and pins by ACUE, recognizing them for their achievements.
Professor and Interim Chair for Civil and Architectural Engineering Dr. Breanna Bailey participated in the Effective Teaching Practices training.
“For me, the biggest value in taking the course was to remind myself that I love teaching. After 16 years, I have become a bit jaded,” Dr. Bailey said. “The course was a way for me to refresh my outlook and challenge myself to do more. Just more. Every class, every time.”
