New to the U: Faculty Teaching Orientation

Exceptional teaching begins here. 


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About | Eligibility and Registration | Schedule
New to the U: Faculty Teaching Orientation

At the University of Alberta, we strive to “prepare students to be creative, collaborative, and confident global citizens.”

Shape: A Strategic Plan of Impact, 2023

About this Event

Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Time: 8:30 – 4:00 p.m.

Location: Event location will be shared in an email invitation with eligible attendees.

Whether you are an experienced faculty member or new to teaching, New to the U: Faculty Teaching Orientation is designed to welcome you to the university as a valued faculty member and set you on the path to success in your teaching journey.

This orientation introduces you to how the University of Alberta is working to create an environment where students engage in transformative learning experiences and connects you with key resources, support systems, and opportunities that will shape your teaching journey.

New to the U offers you the opportunity to: 

  • engage with U of A’s senior leaders on institutional teaching and learning-focused initiatives
  • prepare to teach and build relationships with the U of A students of today
  • explore campus-wide supports and resources for effective, inclusive teaching and learning 
  • build connections with fellow new instructors from across the university

Eligibility and Registration

New to the U is designed for new faculty members, academic teaching staff (career track), faculty service officers, and librarians. Attendance is reserved for invited guests.

Launching into Fall: Academic Teaching Staff (ATS) Orientation supports the unique needs and teaching contexts of the University of Alberta’s academic teaching staff. 

If you have any questions about New to the U, please do not hesitate to contact us at  ctlevent@ualberta.ca.

Schedule

Schedule of Events for August 12, 2026.
Time (MDT) Topic(s)
8:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Coffee Connections

Meet fellow new instructors and begin building relationships across the university.
9:00 - 9:30 a.m.

Opening Prayer

Begin the day with an opening prayer and teaching from the Centre for Teaching and Learning’s Elder Evelyn Day.
9:30 - 9:45 a.m.

Welcome from President and Vice-Chancellor, Bill Flanagan

Hear about the University of Alberta’s vision for teaching, learning, and student success.
9:45 - 10:30 a.m.

Teaching at the University of Alberta: Priorities, Initiatives, and Student Success

Explore the institutional priorities and initiatives shaping teaching and learning at the U of A through a conversation with U of A’s Vice-Provosts.
10:30 - 10:45 a.m. Break

10:45 - 11:30 a.m.

Teaching in the U of A Digital Learning Environment

Learn about the core digital tools, systems, and supports available to help you teach effectively.
11:30 - 12:15 p.m.

Assessment, Workload, and Instructor Wellbeing

Consider approaches to assessment and workload that support both student learning and sustainable teaching practices.
12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Catered Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Student Perspectives on Teaching and Learning

Hear directly from CTL Student Ambassadors about what helps students learn, engage, and succeed.
2:00 - 2:15 p.m. Break
2:15 - 3:15 p.m.

Teaching Insights from U of A Instructors

Learn practical strategies and perspectives from instructors we admire.
3:15 - 3:45 p.m.

Continuing Your Teaching Journey with CTL

Discover programs, services, and opportunities that can support your ongoing growth as an instructor.
3:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Closing Reflections

Conclude the day with reflections and closing words from Elder Evelyn Day.