The Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) invites you to apply for the Course Design Institute (CDI)! This is an exciting, intensive, on-campus opportunity for RIT faculty who are ready to create a new course or give an existing one a fresh, effective redesign for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Our goal for the CDI is simple. We aim to give you the support you need to craft courses that are coherent, truly engaging for students, and sustainable for you, all built on the foundation of proven, evidence-based teaching practices. Over the Institute’s three days (13 contact hours), we'll work together through hands-on activities, engaging group discussions, and guided workshops. You'll gain a deeper understanding of learner-centered design principles, including how to:
- Write clear, meaningful, and measurable learning outcomes.
- Develop learning activities that directly support your students' success.
- Skillfully scaffold major learning activities to guide students step-by-step.
- Design assessments that truly measure what students have learned.
By the end of the Institute, you will walk away with drafts of at least three essential items:
- A revised or newly developed syllabus.
- A course map laying out modules up to the first major assessment.
- A written reflection on how this experience has shaped your approach to course design.
Eligibility and Selection:
The CDI is open to all full-time RIT faculty (tenured, tenure‑track, visiting, and lecturers). Space is limited, and participants will be selected to form a diverse, interdisciplinary cohort. Applications will be reviewed by a committee using criteria such as the quality of the applicant’s statement, the potential impact of the course design work, and confirmation of departmental support. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by April 21, 2026.
Schedule:
The 2026 Course Design Institute
will be held on campus (no remote option available):
- Tuesday, May 19: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.; 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 20: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.; 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
- Thursday, May 21: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.; 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Application deadline: April 13, 2026
Questions: Email ctl@rit.edu