While the start of fall quarter is still several weeks away for most instructors, we know that some of our graduate and professional school colleagues are heading back to the classroom soon. TLC resources, services, and upcoming programs are available to support your preparations for the new term. Additionally, take a look at our Preparing to Teach guides for teaching development best practices and course planning strategies.
Resources
Getting Started Checklist
This teaching resource provides an overview of key steps UCLA instructors — including teaching assistants, instructors new to teaching at the university, and those with more experience — might take at the start of each quarter.
Developing a GenAI Syllabus Policy
Our teaching resource aims to support you in developing an informed position, grounded in research and critical reflection about the implications of using Generative AI tools. Find step-by-step guidance for crafting a policy suited to your course context that supports student learning.
Lesson Planning
Learn how to apply the principles of backward design — a foundational framework for aligning learning objectives, assessment, and in-class activities — to the lesson planning process.
Teaching with TAs
Teaching Assistants play an important role in supporting undergraduate instruction. This resource offers strategies for how instructors can create effective teaching teams with TAs through active communication, collaboration, and mentorship.
Making Your Course Accessible
The TLC and our campus partners are working to enhance digital accessibility resources to elevate all students’ learning and align with UCLA and UC commitments to inclusive excellence. As you plan your next classes, you may need to adjust course materials so that all students can access and understand them. Learn more about making your course accessible
Services
Consultations
Instructors, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars can meet one-on-one with TLC staff about course development, student learning assessment, academic job market preparation, and classroom technologies. Meet with TLC staff.
Media Production
Whether recording a single lecture or an entire course, our Media Production team supports instructors in creating impactful multimedia content that helps students connect to course material. Learn more about our production process.
Instructional Design
The TLC’s Instructional Designers assist educators in crafting innovative course materials and integrating technology that fosters an effective learning experience for all students. Learn more about how we can collaborate to meet your instructional goals
Events
UCLA Extension Instructor Orientation
10 a.m– 3 p.m., August 22 | Extension Lindbrook Center 204 (subject to change)
This event is for UCLA Extension Instructors
The TLC and UCLA Extension invite new and returning Extension instructors to a fall orientation walking through onboarding information from HR and student support services. Topics will include resources on course design basics, engaging adult learners, accessibility training, navigating Canvas, and information on Extension-specific support pathways. Register here.
New Instructor Teaching Institute (NITI)
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., September 9 | Luskin Conference Center
9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., September 10 | Zoom
The TLC welcomes all UCLA instructors with three years of experience or less to the New Instructor Teaching Institute (NITI). The program will orient instructors to campus, explore effective teaching practices, and connect with other new instructors, deans, and campus partners. Content will be distinct each day, and attendees are welcome to attend all or part of the Institute. Register here.
Course Refresh Clinics
10 a.m. – noon, September 11 | Powell 186
1 – 3 p.m., September 15 | Zoom
The TLC’s Course Refresh Clinics will offer instructors targeted support for preparing, revising, or improving part of a course. The clinics will focus on course organization, learning goals, student engagement, assessment and feedback, accessibility, and Bruin Learn. Register here.
Digital Accessibility for Course Design Intensive Training
9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., September 14 | Powell 186
9:30 a.m. – noon, September 15 | Powell 186
This intensive day-and-a-half training is designed to equip educators with the essential knowledge and skills to build accessible learning environments. Through hands-on sessions and practical guidance, participants will explore key topics including creating accessible course documents, designing inclusive presentation slides, and ensuring media content meets accessibility standards. Whether participants are just getting started with accessibility or looking to strengthen their existing practices, this intensive will offer actionable strategies and resources to remove barriers and foster a class experience where every student has an opportunity to succeed. Register here.
53rd Annual TA & Postdoc Teaching Conference
9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., September 18 | Zoom
This annual event will help graduate students and postdocs build the skills to start fall quarter strong and to develop advanced teaching practices that benefit a wide range of career trajectories. Register here.
From Postdoc to Professor: A Teaching Readiness Intensive
Friday, October 16
Part of Postdoctober recognition month
Location and RSVP form to follow
From Postdoc to Professor brings together essential elements of teaching preparation into one engaging experience for postdoctoral scholars. Participants will strengthen their understanding of evidence-based, student-centered, and inclusive teaching practices; develop foundational course design skills; begin crafting a teaching philosophy statement; and build connections with peers and campus partners committed to teaching excellence. Learn more.
From Our Campus Partners
CEILS Annual Faculty Workshop
8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., August 25 | Hershey Hall 158
Hosted by the Center for Education Innovation and Learning in the Sciences | Register here.