Faculty Reading Groups

a stock photo of 8 books propped up. The books are of various size and colors such as red, blue, orange, yellow, and white. The books are set against an orange background a stock photo of 8 books propped up. The books are of various size and colors such as red, blue, orange, yellow, and white. The books are set against an orange background
Faculty readings groups meet four times throughout the semester to discuss teaching and learning interests over a common book or theme. 

Engage in discussions and explore literature on educational practices with our Faculty Reading Groups. These groups provide a collaborative space for faculty to read and discuss current research, innovative teaching methods, and important issues in education. Participate in lively discussions, share your perspectives, and gain new insights that can inform and enhance your teaching practice. Our reading groups are a great way to stay informed about the latest trends in education and connect with your colleagues in meaningful dialogue. 

Overview

Each fall and spring semester, PETAL facilitates a reading group for faculty at the university. The books center around themes related to teaching and pedagogy in higher education. These reading groups are an opportunity for educators from across disciplines and departments to discuss teaching & learning interests over a common book. 

How does it work?

Each semester PETAL will promote a reading group with an accompanied book or theme. Faculty will have the chance to apply to be part of the group, with a maximum of ten spots available. Graduate and doctoral students are also encouraged to apply. From there, participants will meet four times throughout a semester, usually on a weekly basis, to discuss the book's topics and how it relates to their teaching. Groups will be facilitated by either PETAL staff or instructional designers from the Learning Innovation and Faculty Engagement (LIFE) team. During these meetings, facilitators may assign homework in addition to reading chapters such as working on reflective prompts or redesigning course materials. 

All participants will receive a free copy of the book.

Faculty Reading Groups

Spring 2025: Active Learning Faculty Reading Group with UM’s Ilene M. Dresner Presidential Distinguished Scholar Eric Mazur

This Faculty Reading Group on Active Learning will be led by UM’s Ilene M. Dresner Presidential Distinguished Scholar Eric Mazur. Dr. Mazur is the Balkanski Professor of Physics and Applied Physics and Area Chair of Applied Physics at Harvard University, Member of the Faculty of Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and Past President of the Optical Society. An internationally recognized scientist and researcher, he leads a vigorous research program in optical physics in the Physics Department at Harvard University. In addition to his work in optical physics, Mazur has been a pioneer in innovative education. He developed Peer Instruction, a method for teaching large lecture classes interactively, as well as other innovative methodologies. Dr. Mazur's teaching method has developed a large following, both nationally and internationally, and has been adopted across many disciplines. 

Active Learning pedagogies involve students in the learning process in ways that go well beyond listening and memorizing. In Active Learning, students are engaged in their learning by investigating complex questions, solving problems, and practicing skills. For example, Peer Instruction is a method for teaching lecture classes interactively. It’s an active learning technique that can greatly increase student engagement and understanding by allowing students to articulate learning in their own terms and check their understanding with other students. Other active learning pedagogies will also be explored.

This group will meet several times during the spring 2025 semester.  Readings will be chosen by Dr. Mazur in collaboration with participants in the Faculty Reading Group.  The dates and times that the group will meet will be determined closer to the beginning of the spring 2025 semester.  Meetings will be held on Zoom.

Please submit application by Friday, December 6, 2024.

Fall 2023: Radical Hope

 a photo of the cover of the book "Radical Hope: A Teaching Manifesto" by author Kevin Gannon

This fall semester we will be reading, Radical Hope: a teaching manifesto. Author Kevin Gannon discusses the many challenges faced by educators in higher education such as creating more inclusive classrooms, cellphone use in class, imposter syndrome, allegations of a campus "free speech crisis," and more. Through a blend of activism, teaching insights, and public intellect, Gannon explores the intersection of social justice and academia, offering tangible strategies and practices to reclaim the vital role of educators in creating a more equitable future. Join us as we discuss the concepts in these books and work toward actionable steps!

 Inclusive Teaching: Strategies for Promoting Equity in the College Classroom by Viji Sathy and Kelly Hogan

What Inclusive Instructors DoPrinciples and Practices for Excellence in College Teaching by Tracie Marcella Addy, Derek Dube, Khadijah A. Mitchell, and Mallory SoRelle

Anti-Racist/Critical Pedagogy (various articles and media)

Trauma-Informed Pedagogy (various articles and media)

Becoming a Critically Reflective Teacher by Stephen Brookfield

Other Reading Groups

Other departments and teams at UM may also offer reading groups/programs for faculty: 

Recommend a Book or Topic!

We welcome any recommendations on any books or topics you would like for us to cover in an upcoming reading group! E-mail petal@miami.edu with your suggestions.

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