The Provost’s Award for Diversity in the Curriculum formally recognizes the efforts of faculty to integrate diversity and inclusion into their courses and curriculum. Sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the University Center for Teaching and Learning, the award recognizes excellence in areas such as updated curriculum, expanded cultural awareness, development of teaching methods that are especially inclusive and interactive, consciously created learning environments that are welcoming and inclusive, and other changes that positively impact aspects of diversity and inclusion in the classroom.

The Teaching Center invites all faculty to the Teaching Partners Open Social next Friday, Sept. 7, from 4-6 p.m. on the 9th Floor of the Learning Research and Development Center (LRDC). Network with faculty peers and enjoy a beautiful view of campus from the balcony! RSVP on our Teaching Partners page!

The Teaching Center is a central resource for instructional technology. We offer a variety of services to the University community, which include delivering technology to classrooms, lecture video recording, long-term equipment loans, and more. Visit Classroom Services for information on available technology and service options you can utilize this fall.

The Open Lab is excited to announce the next phase of its collaboration with the University Library System: the opening of a satellite space for virtual reality exploration and 3D printing demonstrations in Hillman Library's Digital Scholarship Commons. Faculty, students, and staff can stop by during open hours Mondays through Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m during the fall term to meet with Open Lab team members, discuss these innovative technologies, and receive training.

This month's Back to School edition of North Hills Magazine (page 14) featured Pitt Online for its role in the growth of online education. Manager Jonathan Gunnell spoke about how online courses function at Pitt, as well as the role of technology in online learning.

This fall, the University Center for Teaching and Learning is piloting a series of professional development events designed for part-time faculty. Part-time faculty can sign up for two types of events: open hours sessions and workshops. Teaching Center consultants will be available during open hours to answer questions regarding pedagogy, course or assignment design, Blackboard, and technology questions.