New CTI portfolio program aids grad students’ development

A comprehensive teaching portfolio presents a concise, thorough narrative of one’s teaching experience and goals, and can be a tremendous asset on the academic job market.

To help aspiring academics in their development, the Center for Teaching Innovation has launched its enhanced Teaching Portfolio Program, which offers graduate teaching assistants and postdocs guidance in reflecting on their teaching development at Cornell.

The program features a new hub, built around a Canvas course, to provide easier access to resources.

“We have been working continuously on these enhancements, and the new Teaching Portfolio Program provides customized support, tailored to individual participants’ needs,” said Mathew L. Ouellett, executive director of the CTI. “It is a unique opportunity for planning and reflecting on teaching development as an essential component of one’s experience on campus as well as for the future on the academic job market and in promotion processes.”

Program participants work with CTI consultants to reflect on their teaching development and set career goals. CTI staff can also help participants identify and access professional development opportunities relevant to their current teaching responsibilities.

“This program is also a formative opportunity,” said Derina S. Samuel, associate director for graduate student development at the CTI. “Stepping back from teaching responsibilities to review their teaching goals and discuss evidence-based teaching practices helps [teaching assistants] progress in their teaching.”

For more information on the program, email the CTI.

– Dave Winterstein

Media Contact

Abby Butler