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 reading groups meet four times throughout the semester to discuss teaching and learning interests over a common book or theme.

Faculty reading 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

Periodically, 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 & and learning interests over a common book.

All participants will receive a free copy of the book.

 

Faculty Reading Groups

Fall 2026

 

Distracted: Why Students Can’t Focus and What We Can Do About It by James Lang

Join PETAL’s Faculty Reading Group this fall as we read and discuss Distracted: Why Students Can’t Focus and What We Can Do About It by James M. Lang - a timely and thought-provoking book that examines the challenges of student attention and offers practical ways to create more engaging learning environments.

Across three conversations, we’ll explore ideas from the book and consider how we can apply them to our own courses—all while connecting with colleagues from across the University.

Participants are asked to join all three meetings. Reading group session dates:

Tuesday, September 22, 12:20–1:50 p.m.

Tuesday, October 20, 12:20–1:50 p.m.

Tuesday, December 1, 12:20–1:50 p.m.

Lunch will be provided! 

We invite you to be part of this opportunity to connect, reflect and rethink how we engage our students, and leave with ideas you can bring back to your classroom.

Applications are due on Thursday, September 10.

Facilitated by Nadia Gal, PETAL Faculty Fellow

 

Spots are limited. Sign-up for the Faculty Reading Group

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

 

Fall 2023: Radical Hope

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

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

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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