Understanding Educational Developers: Tales from the Center

Much has been written about centers for teaching and learning at the university level, but little about the professionals who work within them. This book gives educational developers the space to tell their stories and capture what it means to be in the profession.

Through a blend of scholarship and personal narratives, this book asks and answers important questions about who educational developers are, how they transitioned to the work, what they do, and the skills and competencies they need to be successful. Readers will come away with an understanding of the nuances, challenges, and joys of working with both students and faculty to create outstanding learning environments.

Understanding Educational Developers is a must-read for both new and experienced educational developers, as well as university administrators who are positioned to advocate for center staff.

Leslie D. Cramblet Alvarez is Assistant Vice Provost of Teaching and Learning and directs the Office of Teaching and Learning at the University of Denver, USA. She oversees the office’s portfolio of faculty development programs and leads campus-wide initiatives related to teaching excellence.

Christopher M. Hakala is Center Director and Professor of Psychology at Springfield College, USA. In his 30-year career, he has taught hundreds of courses and delivered many faculty development presentations on teaching and learning.