Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL)
Teaching & Learning Innovation (TLI) supports faculty and graduate students who want to explore questions about teaching and learning through the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). Our programs help instructors investigate their teaching practices, study student learning, and contribute to research that improves higher education.
Get Started with SoTL
- Join the SoTL Faculty Support Network
- Request a SoTL Consultation
- Learn about the SoTL Incubator
- Explore the SoTL Finish Line Award
- Browse SoTL Resources
TLI Support for SoTL
TLI offers several programs to help faculty and graduate students develop, implement, and share Scholarship of Teaching and Learning projects.
SoTL Faculty Support Network
The SoTL Faculty Support Network connects faculty, graduate students, and staff who are interested in collaborating, sharing ideas, and supporting SoTL work at the University of Tennessee.
Join the SoTL Faculty Support Network
SoTL Consultations
TLI staff provide individual consultations to help instructors plan and develop SoTL projects. Consultations may include support with:
- Developing research questions
- Designing evaluation methods
- Identifying classroom assessment strategies
- Planning project implementation
SoTL Incubator
The SoTL Incubator supports UT faculty who are beginning a new SoTL project. Participants receive guidance throughout the research process, including literature reviews, research design, and data collection.
Learn more about the SoTL Incubator
SoTL Finish Line Award
The SoTL Finish Line Award provides funding and support for faculty who are preparing to complete a SoTL study and submit a manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal.
Participants work throughout the academic year to prepare their manuscript and submit it for publication.
Learn more about the SoTL Finish Line Award
TLI’s Philosophy on SoTL
TLI’s approach to SoTL is grounded in reflective teaching, rigorous research design, and a commitment to student success.
Intentional Reflection
SoTL begins with critically reflecting on teaching practice, student learning experiences, and the broader cultural and institutional contexts that shape higher education.
Engaging the Scholarly Conversation
Following the framework described by Ernest Boyer (1990), SoTL recognizes teaching as a scholarly activity. Effective SoTL projects engage with existing research to understand current knowledge and identify opportunities for new contributions.
Rigorous Research Design
TLI supports faculty and graduate students in developing methodologically sound studies that generate meaningful insights about teaching and learning.
Contributing to the Evidence Base
SoTL encourages faculty and graduate students to share their findings through publications, presentations, and other scholarly dissemination channels.
Online Resources for SoTL
The following resources can help you begin or advance a SoTL project.
Preparing for SoTL Work
UT subject librarian Grace Therrell has curated a guide to support instructors who are planning SoTL projects.
Explore the SoTL Subject Guide
Reviewing the Literature
UT Libraries subject librarians can help you locate relevant research and sources.
Choosing Research Methods
Preparing for IRB Applications
If your SoTL project involves research with students, you may need Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval.
Learn about IRB virtual office hours
Preparing for Publication and Presentation
- Search the Teaching Journals Directory
- Search journals using JournalGuide
- Explore the Teaching Conferences Directory
Questions About SoTL?
If you have questions about any SoTL program or would like help getting started, please contact:
Chris Kilgore
Email: ckilgor4@utk.edu