Teaching for Learning Month
Every day in May 2026
Teaching for Learning MonthÌýis presented by Teaching and Academic Programs (TAP) and offered in partnership with The Office of Science Education (OSE). The theme for May 2026 is Fostering relationship-rich classrooms.
Choose from a variety of facilitated events and self-access activities to suit different schedules and ways of participating.
What are relationship-rich classrooms?
Relationships are a vital part of the educational experience. Learning environments that prioritize trust, belonging, and meaningful interaction foster crucial connections, which help students engage with academic content, develop essential learning skills, and overcome challenges. In an age increasingly shaped by generative AI, relationships cultivated in the classroom serve as a vital counterbalance, grounding learning in empathy, authenticity, and shared experience.
Discussion on the Freshman Research Initiative with Dr. Gwendolyn Stovall, University of Texas at Austin
Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 2:00–3:30 p.m., 2001 ºÚÁÏÍø±¬³Ô¹Ï College, room 650
Dr. Gwendolyn Stovall is an Associate Professor of Practice in Molecular Biosciences at UT Austin and a leader in the , a large-scale program that integrates authentic research experiences into undergraduate education. She also directs the High School Research Initiative, an NIH-supported program that brings inquiry-based research into high school classrooms.
Dr. Stovall will give a brief presentation on the Freshman Research Initiative, focusing on how large-enrollment, course-based research programs are designed and implemented, followed by a Q&A.
Stovall, G. M., Huynh, V., Engelman, S., & Ellington, A. D. (2019). . Sensors, 19(15), 3270.
Buckley, D., Stovall, G. M., et al. (2025). . American Journal of STEM Education, 16, 95–108.
You can learn more about Dr. Stovall’s work here: and here:
For accessibility information click here.
Making space for in-class connections
Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 10:00-10:45 a.m.,ÌýMcLennan Library Building, Room MS-74
This panel will explore how flipped classroom and blended learning approaches can foster in-class connection opportunities that enhance the student learning experience. Panelists will share examples of reshaping class time to foster community and conversation among students and with the course teaching team.
Panelists:Ìý
Dr. Grant McKenzie, Associate Professor, Geography
Dr. Katelin Schutz, Assistant Professor, Physics (Trottier Space Institute)
Dr. Pallavi Sirjoosingh, Senior Faculty Lecturer, Chemistry
Moderator: Dr.ÌýVéronique Brulé,ÌýEducational Developer, Office of Science Education