We Will Survive: the Merging of a Teaching and Learning Center During Disruption

With the ever-changing landscape of higher education and the unprecedented disruptions brought about by both internal and external factors, we will share strategies, challenges, and stories about the merger of two units dedicated to supporting faculty. One unit was devoted to instruction and assessment for the residential main campus, while the other focused on digital learning for the online campus. The goal of the merger aims to create a unified University Center for Assessment, Teaching, and Technology (UCATT) that strategically integrates pedagogical innovation, assessment strategies, and digital learning technologies to support faculty and enhance student learning experiences. We recognized the need for a holistic approach to teaching and learning in higher education, particularly amidst disruptive events such as technological advancements, shifts in student demographics, and global crises. By combining the expertise and resources of the former units, UCATT wants to establish a comprehensive support system for faculty members in designing, delivering, and assessing effective instruction in both traditional and online learning environments.