The Foster Student Learning Through Effective Teaching course is now open to all educators at USC Columbia, the Schools of Medicine, and Palmetto College, including faculty, staff, and graduate teaching assistants. 

This online experience supports participants in strengthening their teaching practices through evidence-based strategies that enhance course organization, communication, feedback, and student engagement. The course is delivered in Blackboard with short videos, practical guidance, knowledge checks, brief quizzes, and reflective discussions. Content draws on High-Impact Design for Online Courses (HIDOC), the Student Experience Project (SEP), and Critical Teaching Behaviors (CTB) to promote continuous growth aligned with USC’s Core Principles of Quality Teaching. 

Since its launch in August 2025, 88 new faculty members have completed the course, describing it as engaging, well-organized, and highly relevant. Participants shared that “This was a superb course that substantially reduced my teaching anxiety for my first semester at USC,” and “Clear, helpful, and well-structured. The templates and examples were incredibly useful.” Another participant added, “I appreciated the short, focused videos and written materials that supported reflection.” 

The course is available in two formats: participants may join a facilitated cohort guided by the Center for Teaching Excellence or complete the course individually at their own pace. Those finishing all requirements receive a certificate of completion and a letter of commendation. 

The next facilitated session will take place December 1-December 22, 2025, with registration open until November 20, 2025. 

Learn more or register for the self-paced option or the December 1-22, 2025 cohort at Foster Student Learning Through Effective Teaching.