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Martha Bradley Evans Center For Teaching Excellence

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Instructor Reflection

Instructor reflection is the cornerstone of the Teaching Excellence & Development Framework. This self-assessment allows teachers to analyze their teaching methods, set goals, and align their approach with best practices. Through this process, instructors can identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in their teaching. Instructor reflection allows educators to set meaningful teaching goals, refine their instructional strategies, and adapt to the evolving needs of their students. Reflection empowers instructors to deepen their understanding of their teaching philosophy and align it with best practices in education.

With the help of campus partners, CTE designed a Peer Review of Teaching Form that aligns with the Definition of Teaching Excellence.

Online form  Word Template

Overview

Instructor reflection can be a valuable tool to identify opportunities for improving your teaching practice and to document your developmental journey over time. It can also serve as a record of your teaching, which can be included in awards or review files. 

Reflection is a critical piece in recognizing how your teaching is going and areas in which you might improve. This introspective process can occur at various intervals: prior to or following a class session, on a semester or mid-semester basis, or annually. Reflection may pertain to a specific course, your overall teaching approach, or to other areas, including mentoring, research and service. Engaging in regular reflection will accelerate your personal and professional growth.
 
The University of Utah defines outstanding teaching across five thematic areas. These areas with descriptions provide a common framework for course-based instructional activities. We have designed three different Instructor Reflection forms for you to use based on your needs. All of the forms align with the Outstanding Teaching Framework and the Definition of Outstanding Teaching.
  • The Long Form is the most comprehensive form and is recommended for end-of-semester or annual reflections.
  • The Short Form is a condensed version of the Long Form and is recommended for mid-semester or end-of-semester reflection.
  • The Event Form is a simplified form providing space for you to reflect on what happened and what you can learn from it.
Last Updated: 9/13/23