Turn your job into a research lab: Join the SOTL Unconference
HSC faculty and staff are invited to engage, collaborate, and innovate at HSC’s inaugural Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL) Collective Unconference, happening 1 to 4 p.m., May 15, 2025, in EAD 255.
What is SOTL?
SOTL is a scholarly approach to improving education and enhancing student learning outcomes in higher education. It involves conducting research and inquiry into teaching and learning processes with the goal of informing and improving educational practices. SOTL is often pursued by faculty members, instructors, and educators in various academic disciplines who are interested in evidence-based approaches to teaching.
In September 2024, the Division of Academic Innovation launched the HSC SOTL Collective, a cohort-based, peer-led professional development program dedicated to advancing educational research. The Collective is structured around four Communities of Practice (COPs), each exploring emerging topics in education: Artificial Intelligence, High-Impact Practices, HyFlex, and Project Management.
What is an unconference?
Unlike traditional conferences, this format empowers attendees to engage in organic discussions, shape the agenda and actively contribute to knowledge-sharing. Whether new to unconferences or eager to explore this innovative approach, this event offers a unique opportunity to network, exchange ideas and gain fresh insights alongside faculty and staff at HSC.
The HSC SOTL Collective Unconference 2025 is a dynamic, in-person event designed to showcase the power of collaborative, participant-driven learning. It offers a unique platform for current members to share their accomplishments from the past year and for prospective participants to explore which COP might be the best fit for them.
What you can expect:
- Engaging mini presentations from members of our Communities of Practice (COPs).
- Interactive, participant-driven sessions – Shape discussions in real time, share experiences and collaborate on best practices.
- Networking and community building – Connect with like-minded educators and researchers in a supportive, engaging environment.
- Testimonial and storytelling booth – Share your experiences and insights to help shape the future of the HSC SOTL Collective.
- Book Raffle & Giveaways – Win professional development books and other prizes.
- Complimentary coffee and refreshments
“The SOTL Unconference is designed to show that your job as faculty or staff can be your own lab and serve as a launchpad for research that makes a real difference in student success and workplace culture and operations,” said Dr. Jiaqi Yu, Assistant Director, Instructional Innovation and Project Management, Division of Academic Innovation.
Register here.
Questions? Contact Jiaqi.Yu@unthsc.edu