At the start of each academic year, the Office of Faculty Affairs and the Center for Teaching, Learning and Design offer faculty members who are new to Metropolitan State University of Denver multiple opportunities to ease the transition into their new roles. This month, over 50 instructors participated in various sessions, and opportunities are available year-round for improving instructional skills and learning more about faculty life at MSU Denver.
Roadrunner Faculty Academy
The Office of Faculty Affairs and the CTLD, in collaboration with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, have created a unique new opportunity to support new full-time tenure–track faculty members. Using funds received during the Covid-19 pandemic through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund program, new tenure–track faculty members have a reduced teaching load so they can spend two hours per week in this yearlong program. This summer, faculty and staff members from across campus have been engaged in a thoughtful backward design process with CTLD staff to develop the modules of this exciting new program.
Roadrunner Instructor Training
Not just for new faculty members, RIT offers a hands-on, in-depth dive into teaching at MSU Denver. With a focus on effective use of Canvas, RIT is applicable to courses in any format. Topics include developing modules, assignments, grading and multimedia as well as inclusive pedagogy and developing online community and engagement. Each associated session showcases current examples and allows participants to try out the ideas on the spot.
New Faculty Orientation
Finally, welcome to all new faculty members who attended the recent two-day NFO. The tailored orientation, held each semester, not only provides an overview of MSU Denver and Human Resources benefits but includes discussions with current MSU Denver faculty and staff members on topics such as shared governance, scholarship, accessibility and strategies for resolving conflict. Attendees and returning employees can find a wealth of valuable resources at the Information Roundup Page.
Separately, half-day orientations for new adjunct faculty members are offered multiple times before each semester in person and remotely. They include discussions with academic leaders, Q&As with current adjunct faculty members and information-roundup sessions.
Learn more about these and other resources for educators at all levels on the CTLD website.