Get Started Teaching

The most successful teaching experiences begin well before the start of class. This page includes links to resources touching upon several aspects of planning and preparation.

In addition, several episodes of the Center for Integrated Professional Development’s podcast, Let’s Talk Teaching, address topics such as having a successful first day of class, syllabus design, and course prep. Listen at ProDev.IllinoisState.edu/Podcast.

Teaching Techniques

Learn how to implement high-impact, evidence-based teaching techniques to improve students' learning. The K. Patricia Cross Academy provides free instructional videos and other resources for in-person and online classes. Each video comes with a downloadable instructor's guide.

Accessibility

Providing an inclusive learning environment is critical to consider as we plan to teach. Several resources exist on campus to assist instructors:

• Start with this Accessibility Checklist, which includes links to examples and additional resources.
• You can also refer to this Web and Digital Accessibility guide.
• Student Access and Accommodation Services also maintains a resource page for faculty.

Creating Your Syllabus

Find required and suggested language to include in your syllabi, gathered from across the university and reflecting research-based practices in student learning.

Canvas

Get help preparing to teach with Canvas, Illinois State’s new learning management system Canvas. Discover how to copy resources from previous semesters, publish course sites, request two or more course sections be combined in to a common site, and much more.    

Online Learning

Teaching an online course presents a set of unique challenges. This brief guide will help you explore options for preparing and delivering a quality online learning experience.

Teaching Large Classes

Teaching large classes may present unique challenges, from grading to creating classroom communities, from answering e-mails to engaging the students in the classroom or online environment. However, these challenges can be reduced by planning and structuring the courses. This guide suggests what instructors can do at different points of the semester to support learning for a large group and better connect with their students while saving time!