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Over 30 instructors from across the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) gathered in early November for the inaugural FASS Teaching Café, an initiative launched to foster conversations on themes related to undergraduate teaching experiences and challenges. 

The first event convened on the theme of ChatGPT, with lively discussions led by FASS Teaching Fellows Carman Fung, Tiffany Muller-Myrdahl, and Martin Santamaria.

Over lunch, instructors discussed a variety of issues that emerged with the infamous chat bot, compared notes, and brainstormed solutions. The event was a resounding success, and the Teaching Fellows look forward to hosting the next Teaching Café in the new year, with future themes shining a light on grading practices and student support. 

The Café idea was conceived when Santamaria, a senior lecturer with the Department of Economics, pointed out the need for a casual space where instructors could get together to commiserate and discuss their teaching experiences with each other. So with the support of FASS Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs Melek Ortabasi, the FASS Teaching Café was born.

One of the pillars upon which FASS prides itself is its excellence in teaching and learning. As part of its commitment to improve the educational experience for instructors and students alike, FASS offers resources and support in the form of funding and initiatives such as the FASS Teaching Fellows and Teaching Café. 

With the success of the first Café, FASS faculty members can expect more to come in 2024 - stay tuned!