Get Support for the Human Side of Teaching
[T]eaching is a daily exercise in vulnerability.
Teaching is often a private act: We rarely see one another teaching and often do not discuss some of the challenges and heartbreaks teaching can introduce. The isolated nature of our practice can make us feel like our experiences are unique and that what encounter in teaching is an anomaly.
Teaching Rounds introduce a different way of thinking about teaching: A way to share and validate our stories with one another. Participants in Teaching Rounds often note that these sessions help them feel like they are not alone in their experiences.
Structure
Each Teaching Round is designed around a unique theme, but follows the same structure.
The one-hour meetings, held on Zoom, are facilitated by a CTE Affiliate or Associate. Pre-recruited panelists (3-5) share their stories about the theme. For the remainder of the time, participants are encouraged to share their insights, related thoughts or experiences, or simply validations of what they are hearing in the session.
Our goals are not to problem-solve or digress into teaching strategies, but rather to listen, validate, and identify with one another about how teaching can impact us emotionally, socially, and even spiritually.
For the 2026-2027 Academic Year, we will hold 2 Teaching Rounds per semester.
Please watch for calls for panelists; we invite broad interpretation of the themes and aim for a range of stories.
Confidentiality is Important
Meaningful participation in these meetings, and sharing stories, requires a level of vulnerability and trust that is not possible if confidentiality is not honored. Please refrain from recording or generating transcripts of the meeting, and please keep detailed discussions of what is shared confidential.
Participation is Also Important
Our panelists start the discussion, but we depend on all participants to keep it going! As we get started, we'll share some opening questions to think about as you listen to our panelists.
Silence is honored as we absorb and process stories and others' insights, but your voice matters in the group dynamic. Please be open to sharing your thoughts or asking sincere questions.
Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 Teaching Rounds
Facilitators: Amber Arsenault, Jillian Alexander (CTE Associates)