Center for Excellence in TeachingCase-based role play
A general structure and options for case-based role play activities and assignments.
Resources: Word document
Authority in the classroom
A summary of a research-supported model of instructor authority.
Designing reflection assessments
A description of a five-step model that instructors can use in designing in-class reflective assignments.
The first day of class
A checklist of the content recommended for the first day of class in a new semester. The checklist is appropriate for both classroom and online courses.
FERPA for TAs
A summary of FERPA regulations pertinent to USC TAs.
Promoting intrinsic motivation
A collection of strategies for increasing student intrinsic motivation, organized by three motivational factors.
Course alignment grid
An explanation of course alignment, how to achieve it using a course alignment grid template, and sample grid of a well-aligned course.
Writing learning objectives
A concise how-to process for developing specific and measurable course learning objectives. Intended as an introduction for new instructors or a reminder for experienced instructors.
Sample assignment descriptions
A collection of assignment descriptions from actual USC courses. The assignment descriptions follow best practices in terms of connecting the assignment to the course learning objective(s), providing a narrative overview of the assignment, indicating the steps required to complete the assignment, and referencing how the assignment will be graded.
Reflective essay rubric
This is a grading rubric an instructor uses to assess students’ work on this type of assignment. It is a sample rubric that needs to be edited to reflect the specifics of a particular assignment. Students can self-assess using the rubric as a checklist before submitting their assignment.