More than fifteen years ago, Arthur Chickering and Zelda Gamson wrote an article on principles for good practice in undergraduate education. This article and the seven principles have become a cornerstone for reflective practice and areas of focus for improving teaching and learning. While you have probably heard about or read this article at some point in your career, it never hurts to revisit it as we start the new year and another semester.
The article implores, “There are neither enough carrots nor enough sticks to improve undergraduate education without the commitment and action of students and Faculty members. They are the precious resources on whom the improvement of undergraduate education depends” (p. 2). Faculty and support staff must look to these principles as we commit to improving the student experience at GCC.
“Good practice in undergraduate education:
- encourages contact between students and faculty,
- develops reciprocity and cooperation among students,
- encourages active learning,
- gives prompt feedback,
- emphasizes time on task,
- communicates high expectations, and
- respects diverse talents and ways of learning” (p. 2).
We encourage you to choose one of these principles and think about what else you can do in your courses this semester to build on this principle. Do you need additional ideas for ways to enhance what you are already doing in one of these areas? Contact the CTLE or attend a training on active learning techniques, assessment techniques, etc. this semester.
Read the original article here: Chickering, A. W., Gamson, Z. F., & American Association for Higher Education, W. C. (1987). Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education. AAHE Bulletin, 2-6.
Photo used under Creative Commons from Giulia Forsyth
