Preparing for the Next 100 Years of Teaching and Learning at UBalt

As the University of Baltimore approaches its centennial next year, we reflect on a legacy of empowering students, fostering community connections, and adapting to the evolving needs of higher education. For nearly a century, UBalt has served as a cornerstone for educational excellence in Baltimore, and now, as we look to the future, we must prepare for the challenges and opportunities that will define the next 100 years.

The 2024 EDUCAUSE Horizon Report focusing on teaching and learning highlights several critical trends shaping the future of higher education, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the increasing demand for workforce-ready skills, and the need for more equitable and inclusive learning environments. These trends echo UBalt’s current aspirations and serve as a call to action for how we can evolve.

So, what is CELTT doing to help UBalt prepare for the next 100 years?

Our work goes beyond supporting current faculty needs; it’s about shaping a forward-looking vision for teaching excellence that aligns with both the university’s strategic goals and the needs of modern learners.

One of the most significant trends shaping the future of education is the integration of generative artificial intelligence. At CELTT, we are leading the charge to equip faculty with the tools and knowledge to harness AI effectively in their classrooms. Through initiatives like the AI Summit 2024, we have created spaces for faculty to explore generative AI and understand its implications for teaching, learning, and workforce readiness. In addition, we’ve introduced a Professional Learning Community (PLC) on AI to foster collaboration among faculty as they explore AI’s role in education, ensuring that UBalt remains at the forefront of this transformation.

As the workforce evolves, so too must the skills we equip our students with. The AI in Practice series is a prime example of how we’re preparing students for the demands of a rapidly changing job market. By connecting faculty with industry leaders and showcasing real-world applications of AI in various fields, CELTT, our partners (UBalt’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, JHU and UMBC) and our speakers help bridge the gap between academic theory and practical, workforce-ready skills. This series not only highlights the importance of AI fluency but also emphasizes the need for lifelong learning as students enter an increasingly tech-driven world.

Inclusion and accessibility are critical to ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed. CELTT is committed to providing faculty with the tools and resources they need to make their courses accessible to all learners, particularly those with disabilities. In partnership with UBalt’s Student Success and Support Services, we support faculty in creating flexible, student-centered learning environments, offering guidance through our course modalities video series and other resources designed to enhance online learning. These efforts align closely with UBalt’s mission to ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and supported in their academic journey.

At the core of CELTT’s mission is ensuring that UBalt faculty are prepared to meet the challenges of today while innovating for the future. Our work aligns with UBalt Teaching Excellence Framework, focusing on Strategic Course Design, Adaptable Instruction, Empowering Student Learning, and Reflective Teaching. CELTT’s workshops, resources, and faculty development programs provide the foundation for these efforts, ensuring that faculty are equipped to drive UBalt’s teaching and learning mission forward.

Looking ahead to CELTT’s Teaching & Learning Day on October 25, these themes will take center stage. From discussions about the role of AI in education to exploring strategies for managing challenging classroom conversations, the event will offer faculty an opportunity to engage with the trends that are shaping the future of teaching and learning. Together, we will continue to build on UBalt’s rich legacy of educational excellence and ensure that our institution is well-positioned for the next 100 years.