Skip to McMaster Navigation Skip to Site Navigation Skip to main content
McMaster logo

Summary

Takeaways:

SoTL is a Systematic Inquiry into Teaching and Learning 

  • SoTL goes beyond traditional teaching by using research-based methods to investigate and improve student learning. Unlike scholarly teaching, which applies existing research, SoTL generates new knowledge through systematic study and dissemination. 

Benefits for Educators, Students, and Institutions 

  • Engaging in SoTL helps educators refine their teaching practices, enhances student learning through evidence-based strategies, and fosters institutional cultures of continuous improvement and innovation in education. 

Key Steps in Conducting SoTL Research 

  • The SoTL process involves identifying a research question, selecting appropriate research methods (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed), considering ethical implications, analyzing data, and applying findings to improve teaching. 

Dissemination is Essential for Impact 

  • Sharing SoTL findings through journals, conferences, and institutional workshops extends the impact beyond individual classrooms, contributing to a broader educational community and supporting professional growth.