Criteria for Teaching Award

Teaching excellence is multi-faceted, involving a wide range of behaviors. The following are included: (a) is available to students; (b) is helpful to and takes a personal interest in students; (c) uses creative or innovative instructional techniques; (d) is receptive to students’ viewpoints and ideas; (e) relates his or her field to other disciplines; (f) organizes and presents subject matter in ways that interest and stimulate students; (g) helps students make discriminating judgments among competing options; (h) challenges students’ thinking and assumptions; (i) helps students grow in intellectual stature and skills; (j) provides a positive role model to students regarding the value of a university education; (k) inspires students to work hard and to have pride in their work; (l) emphasizes the importance of values and standards in both academic and non-academic life; (m) imparts a respect for truth and a love of learning; (n) finds ways to help students achieve and enhance their self-esteem through the demonstration of mastery; (o) encourages students to be critical and discriminating in their learning and educational career; and (p) shows respect for all persons regardless of gender, age, race/ethnicity, color, religion, creed, nationality, and mental or physical condition.

To receive an award, a nominee must be outstanding on a substantial number of these dimensions.

Distinguished Teacher awardees must demonstrate a sustained record of outstanding performance on a substantial number of these dimensions.