What is TILT? TILT stands for "Transparency in Learning and Teaching," and it is a framework that encourages teachers to make their course objectives, assignments, and expectations clear and transparent for students. Instructors may think that students know exactly why they assign specific activities and use specific assignments in class, but that is not always the case. The TILT framework encourages teachers to articulate clear purposes for course objectives and assignments, to provide detailed and explicit instructions, and to give clear criteria for evaluation. Research shows that the results in a TILTed classroom include less confusion from students, improved student engagement, and better student learning outcomes. Below are some resources to help instructors wanting to include TILT ideas in their classrooms:
The research basis: "Introduction to Transparency in Learning and Teaching" by Dr. Mary-Ann Winkelmas, Founder, Director, and Principal Investigator of the Transparency in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education project
The project: TILT Higher ED
Sample TILTed Assignment Instructions:
In addition the the resources above, English Professors Christina Loucks and Colleen McCready have created an Online Campus course about incorporating TILT practices in your courses. To enroll in it, click "Discover" on the Online Campus homepage and then search for CTL1025: TILT--Transparent Teaching in an Equitable Classroom. It is worth 6 hours of Professional Development, so be sure to request a certificate by filling out the form at the bottom of this page.