In 2025, the Faculty Senate at the University of Washington approved the adoption of a set of core elements of effective teaching (see Section 24-32). The elements reflect teaching practices backed by a significant body of research.
The list below includes the specific language from the Faculty Code, as well as links to resources designed to help you integrate each element into your teaching practice.
Aligned: Effective teaching is intentionally designed and organized to help learners meet learning objectives. Learn how to align your course.
Inclusive and equitable: Effective teaching considers learners’ experiences and creates opportunities for each learner to thrive. Learn about inclusive, equitable, and accessible teaching.
Active and engaged: Effective teaching creates opportunities for learners to critically engage ideas and each other. Learn about active and engaged teaching.
Growth-oriented: Effective teaching creates opportunities for learners to learn through practice and provides feedback that helps them grow their knowledge and abilities. Learn about growth-oriented teaching.
Relevant: Effective teaching helps learners understand why what they are learning matters and prepares them for future learning and life after the UW. Learn about relevant teaching.
Remember…
No one finishes learning how to teach – teaching is an iterative process that instructors will hone throughout their careers. This is the nature of a reflective teaching practice. Used in self-evaluation and peer-evaluation processes, the core elements of effective teaching can help instructors highlight strengths and identify opportunities for growth in their teaching.