Teaching Squares

Framework

1. Appreciative inquiry: discovering what works well in the learning environment and how

2. Empathy and respect: demonstrating understanding and support for peers and students

3. Team-based operations: faculty members contribute as both learners and teachers to the good of the team

4. Non-evaluation: all outcomes refer to the self in teaching squares rather than suggesting improvements to someone else

A teaching square consists of four faculty members from different disciplines who visit each other’s classes over a two- to three-week period.

After the classroom visits, the four gather around coffee or a meal to discuss the teaching observed.

The intention of the square is not to criticize each other’s teaching. Rather, it’s to gather ideas on different teaching approaches that might be used in one’s own classes. It’s an opportunity for faculty to reflect on their own teaching in light of colleagues’ teaching examples. 

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