Frequently Asked Questions

The ISW takes requires participation during all 24 hours which are split between asynchronous and in person learning. This is required to receive ISW certification and for the full benefit of you and your peers.

Your lesson topic could be related to your research, a hobby, a talent, or a subject you are interested in and want to learn a bit more about while preparing your lesson. For your first lesson, we encourage you to choose a topic not related to your discipline. For the other lessons, you can choose any topic you like. We encourage you to teach at least two lessons on a topic you might actually teach now or in the future. For all lessons, please consider that you are teaching something to your peers and you want them to learn something in order to give you high quality feedback.

While 10 minutes is not a lot of time, great lessons can be taught in 10 minutes. Make sure you have 1-2 clear learning objectives, think about what learners can do to meet these objectives and how you and your learners will know if these objectives have been met. While writing your lesson plan, note the number of minutes it will take for each section. If your lesson is taking longer than 10 minutes, reconsider the amount of content and objectives.

The ISW is a professional workshop to enhance learning, and while your lessons are to be conducted in English the course is not designed to enhance language capabilities.

The ISW is designed for peer-to-peer feedback because learning in a collaborative space from each other and offering constructive feedback has proven to enhance participants’ teaching skills. Facilitators do not provide feedback; instead, they guide the peer feedback process and focus on delivering the ISW workshop.

The ISW will focus on pedagogy and teaching techniques rather than skills in using specific platforms. You will be able to use your insights across all online platforms. For help with UBC-specific platforms, consult the Keep Teaching website and the Learning Technology Hub.

There is no “ISW 2” at this time! There are many ways you can continue to grow as a teacher. Visit the CTLT Events website for a list of workshops and other professional development opportunities.