Center for Innovation in Teaching & Learning

Creating a learning environment that supports student wellbeing can enhance engagement, motivation, and academic success—while also promoting a more positive experience for instructors. This interactive 60-minute session offers practical, evidence-based strategies that faculty and instructors can use to foster wellbeing in their classrooms, regardless of discipline or class size. 

We will explore both low-stakes and higher-stakes approaches to integrating wellbeing into their teaching. Low-stakes strategies include small, everyday practices—such as mindful check-ins, transparent communication, or flexible assignment structures—that can make a meaningful difference without requiring major course redesigns. Higher-stakes strategies involve deeper shifts, such as rethinking assessment design, revising course policies, or embedding wellbeing objectives into learning outcomes. 

By the end of this session, participants will: 

• Understand how student wellbeing influences learning and academic outcomes.
• Distinguish between low-stakes and higher-stakes strategies for fostering wellbeing.
• Identify practical actions that align with their teaching style and course structure. 
• Leave with ready-to-implement ideas and resources for creating a supportive, thriving classroom environment. 

This session is ideal for faculty, teaching assistants, and instructors seeking to enhance both student and instructor wellbeing through intentional, flexible teaching practices.

* Applies for the following CITL Teaching Certificates

Certificates List

• Cheelan Bo-Linn Teaching Excellence Certificate
• Graduate Teacher Certificate
• Certificate in Foundations of Teaching
• Dr. Sandra J. Finley Teacher Certificate
• Specialized Certificates
• CITL Engagement Certificate

Learn more about these and other CITL certificates.