New Jersey Institute of Technology Hosts Teaching Conference

NEWARK, April 12- Editors and reporters interested in learning more about what's being done today to improve college teaching methods, may want to attend the day-long teaching and learning workshop at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) Friday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The workshop will be held in Room 3730, of the Guttenberg Information Technology Center on the main campus.

How to be an effective teacher will be the topic of discussion among some 50 college professors as James E. Stice, Ph.D., an emeritus professor of chemical engineering at the University of Texas Center for Teaching Effectiveness, Austin, discusses his lifelong work to improve faculty teaching methods. Stice founded in 1984, the Texas Center for Teaching Effectiveness at the University of Texas, Austin.

Stice is a long time leader in promoting the importance of developing effective skills for faculty relating to teaching and student learning. He is the recipient of numerous teaching and professional awards and is widely sought after to present at and hold workshops on teaching and learning throughout the country, says Angelo Perna, Ph.D. associate dean of engineering, NJIT. "This program is a function under the NJIT Provost Dr. William Van Buskirk and the master teacher committee of NJIT to enhance the educational experience of the students," Perna adds.

"NJIT is a research institution with a strong commitment to undergraduate education as continually stressed by NJIT President Dr. Saul K. Fenster. In keeping with this commitment, programs which enhance the teaching/learning abilities of faculty and students are scheduled several times a year and are open to other faculty from institutions of higher education."

Topics of discussion will include the importance of writing instructional objectives, the four different types of learning styles people have, focusing students on problem solving as opposed to memorization, tips on writing and helping students prepare for tests and improving grading techniques.

The talk is open to NJIT professors and higher education faculty members from other colleges and universities. NJIT, the National Science Foundation Gateway Coalition and the New Jersey Information-Technology Opportunities for the Workforce, Education and Research (NJI-TOWER) are sponsoring the one day event along with the NJIT Master Teacher Committee. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served.

Editor's Note: The main campus of NJIT is accessible from the corner of Warren and Summit streets, Newark. For parking and directions to the school, contact the Public Relations Office.