As part of National Distance Learning Week, Pitt Online will host a group viewing of "Busting Multimedia Myths: An Evidence-Based Approach to Quality Instructional Media" — a webinar on Nov. 7, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. in Alumni Hall. This session will provide an overview of categories and types of instructional multimedia and the quality of research to date. Following the webinar, those in attendance will discuss the application of these evidence-based practices during an informal lunch. Please register online to attend.

News of the passing of Dr. Bernard Fisher, Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and a pioneer in the field of breast cancer research, provided a moment of reflection about his legacy and the connection that the University Center for Teaching and Learning had with his incredible work at Pitt. In our latest article, Blaine Walker, manager of academic digital media, reflects on what a privilege it was for our staff to have worked alongside one of Pitt’s pioneering researchers for nearly 20 years.

The Pittsburgh Regional Council on Higher Education [PCHE] has announced an open call for proposals focusing on teaching and learning or educational development for the third annual Pittsburgh Regional Faculty Symposium on Friday, March 27, 2020. Planners are now accepting proposals across four session types from faculty, graduate students, librarians, instructional designers, and others involved in higher education teaching and learning or educational development. Deadline to submit is Friday, Nov. 1.

Faculty may apply for the opportunity to become an Early Adopter and teach a course in Canvas during the spring term at Pitt. If you are interested in teaching a course using Canvas, you can apply on our website. Applications will close on Oct. 25 and those accepted will be notified by Nov. 1. Please note that opportunities are limited and spots will fill quickly.

Join the Mentoring Academy for its second session of the academic year on October 18: Aligning Expectations and Assessing Understanding. In this workshop, attendees will have an opportunity to discuss best practices for these mentoring competencies, with trained faculty facilitating the conversation. Register online to attend.