Teaching & Learning Innovation strives to support faculty by offering collaboration networks and development programming to better equip instructional staff with the skills and tools needed to provide enriching learning experiences for students.
Faculty Innovator Awards
This award honors those who demonstrate innovative teaching practices at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As part of the award, each recipient participates in an interview and submits a teaching-related document—such as a syllabus, assessment, or lesson plan—reflecting their innovative teaching approach.
SoTL Finish Line Award
TLI offers a flexible program supporting “last mile” work on studies in college-level teaching and learning. If you have already secured IRB approval, collected your data, and maybe begun your analysis, this program is for you!
The program provides funding for those who want to complete their study by writing a manuscript for a peer-reviewed journal article. To complete the program, you’ll write your manuscript across the academic year and submit it to a peer-reviewed journal by June 1, 2026. Funding is based on completing a series of custom deadlines, or “mile markers,” tailored to your study, and if these mile markers are complete, you will receive $1000 in January 2026 and a further $1000 in June 2026.
Volunteer Faculty Launchpad (VFL)
VFL invites new-to-UT faculty to participate in a year-long experience of professional growth and camaraderie. As a participant, you will be part of an exclusive cohort that connects you with two fellow new-to-UT faculty members and pairs your trio with an experienced UT faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching. Through VFL, faculty members will:
- Receive guidance from accomplished mentors
- Collaborate closely with peers to celebrate successes and discuss challenges
- Gain access to resources tailored to elevate your pedagogical skills
- Earn recognition for your commitment via stipends totaling $1,000