2025 Summer Institute for Teaching & Learning

Call for Proposals

The Coulter Faculty Commons (CFC) invites faculty to submit proposals for our upcoming teaching and learning conference, Renaissance of Teaching: A Summer Faire of Ideas, Innovation, and Inspiration!

This year’s theme celebrates the art and science of teaching – blending time-honored best practices (“evergreens”) with fresh innovations to support student success. Whether you are looking to share a tried-and-true technique, experiment with a new approach, or inspire your peers with your teaching journey, we welcome your proposal! 

📅 Conference Dates: May 14 & 15, 2025, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm 

📍 Location: WCU Main Campus, Apodaca  

📝 Proposal Submission Deadline: Tuesday, April 1, 2025 

📩 Notice of Proposal Acceptance: Tuesday, April 15, 2025 

Submission Guidelines
  • While not required, we do encourage you to link to our Renaissance of teaching theme in your title, proposal and session.
  • Submit your proposal via Qualtrics by Tuesday, April 1, 2025
  • Accepted presenters will be notified by Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Proposals should include:
  • Presenter(s) name(s) and contact information
  • Title
  • Brief list of strategies to engage audience
  • Abstract [250-300 words for full-length track OR 100-200 words for short-session track], including:
    • Outline of the topic
    • Relevance to teaching & learning
    • 2-3 key takeaways
  • Selection of conference track fit
  • Short presenter biography (100 word maximum)
  • Headshot

Conference Tracks

Choose from one of the three full-length tracks (45 minutes, dynamic presentation, panel, or interactive workshop) or the short-session track (6-10 minutes). 

Track 1:
Marketplace of Ideas

A bustling hub for the exchange of practical, ready-to-implement teaching strategies. What tools, techniques, or frameworks have transformed your classroom?

Proposals might include: 

    • Active learning strategies that engage students 
    • Creative assessment and feedback methods 
    • Effective ways to integrate technology for enhanced learning 

Track 2: Alchemy of Innovation

The space for experimentation and transformation in teaching and learning. This track is for educators exploring new pedagogical frontiers, blending past wisdom with modern advancements.

Proposals might cover: 

    • Lessons learned from rethinking traditional approaches  
    • AI, gamification, or digital tools enhancing student learning 
    • Online learning innovations 

Track 3: Fountain of Inspiration 

The wellspring of motivation, storytelling, and reflective teaching. How do you cultivate student curiosity and create a meaningful learning experience?

Proposals might focus on: 

    • Fostering student belonging and engagement 
    • Building resilience and adaptability in teaching 
    • Personal teaching philosophies and transformative moments 
    • Cultivating mentorship and community in education

Short-Session Track: Tavern Tales  

Personal storytelling sessions sharing meaningful teaching and learning experiences.

A great opportunity to connect with others over: 

    • Compelling classroom moments 

    • Lessons learned  

    • Inspiring teaching insights