CATT News & Updates | Spring 2026

Student-Centered Pedagogy in Practice

Diverse instructors participate in a hands-on workshop in a classroom, working in small groups around tables with course materials while a facilitator leads a collaborative discussion on teaching strategies.

By GREGORY TUYN

Published January 26, 2026

Student-Centered Pedagogy in Practice is a day-long, interactive workshop designed to support instructors in developing student-centered course materials and teaching strategies. Through a combination of hands-on activities, individual reflection and small-group discussion, participants will explore approaches that promote belonging, engagement and inclusive learning. Topics include syllabus design, active learning, formative assessment, mindfulness, digital accessibility and Universal Design for Learning.

Facilitators will guide participants in applying student-centered practices directly to their own courses, with a focus on practical strategies that can be implemented right away. The workshop emphasizes shared learning and concrete examples, providing instructors with tools and ideas to strengthen classroom climate and support student learning across a range of teaching contexts.

Outcomes for participants

Upon completion of the session, instructors will:

Describe best practices for developing student-centered course materials, including the course syllabus.
Develop or revise a syllabus to reflect best practices.
Describe best practices for a student-centered approach to course delivery.
Identify and apply best practices to support a student-centered teaching approach in delivering course content.

Event information

Tuesday, March 17, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. | Room 222, Natural Sciences Complex, North Campus

8:30 a.m.
Check-in and light refreshments

9–10 a.m.
Creating a Focused Syllabus to Promote Belonging

10–10:30 a.m.
Syllabus Design Activity
Individual and small-group work facilitated by CATT staff

10:30–10:45 a.m.
Break

10:45–11:45 a.m.
Breakout sessions

Promoting mindfulness in students
Active learning to promote belonging and a positive classroom climate, including virtual spaces
Using formative assessment to promote metacognitive skills
UB Learns and digital accessibility, including ADA requirements

11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.
Lunch and open discussion

1–2 p.m.
Promoting Kindness and Belonging Through Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning

2–2:45 p.m.
Next Steps: Applications for the Classroom
Practical examples and group discussion

2:45–3 p.m.
Closing remarks