IRVING, Texas (Nov. 12, 2024) — The eLearning Department, along with the Center for Teaching and Learning, is pleased to announce the University of Dallas’ third annual Teaching and Learning Conference. The conference will be held on Jan. 21, 2025, under the theme, “Architects of Education: How Best to Unlock Student Potential.” The opening speaker will be Professor of Physics Richard Olenick, PhD, and all UDallas faculty are encouraged to submit proposals for presentation at the conference. Proposals are due Dec. 4.

For the first time, the conference will welcome outside academic collaborators as speakers at the conference, provided they co-present with a UDallas faculty member. 

This year’s conference will also feature a plenary event titled “The Mandela Architecture.” The session will feature four engaging theatrical scenes, each paired with focused work sessions. “The Mandela Architecture” is an immersive learning method grounded in neuro-dramatic learning pioneered by the social scientist Jacob Moreno. This approach aims to teach through metaphor and active participation of the mind and body.

“This conference is more than just a training ground, more than just professional development,” says academic adviser and adjunct instructor Ana Babb-Henriquez, MS, BS ’20. “This conference is a venue for positive and meaningful interactions among colleagues, a place for conversation, troubleshooting and encouragement. It provides support for faculty at UDallas and facilitates cross-talk between departments, which bleeds over into creative implementation and discovery in the classroom.”

The conference was established by Wendy Clayton, MEd, director of instructional design and educational services. With the support of Associate Provost John Norris, PhD, BA ’84, the conference has grown in popularity and program content. Over 80 faculty members attended the event last January, representing more than half of the university’s full-time faculty. Organizers hope to welcome even more faculty this year. 

“We have had great interest from the faculty to hear from each other about their best practices and best experiences in teaching,” says Norris. “I think the event serves to inspire and challenge faculty in an atmosphere of joy and shared vocation.”

To register for the conference and submit proposals, visit the conference website.