Mon, 7 Sep 2026 12:30 PM - Mon, 7 Dec 2026 2:00 PM
In 2002, Maryellen Weimer introduced a framework for engaging in learner-centered practice built on theory and evidence-informed practices in teaching and learning. As we approach the 25th anniversary of the learner-centered approach, it is worth considering what it means to center the learner in the classroom to help improve their engagement and deepen their learning.
Weimer (2002, 2013) identified five constructs associated with learner-centered practice positioned around the role of the instructor, student responsibility, function of content, purposes and process of assessing student learning, and balance of power. More recently, Phyllis Blumberg sought to assist faculty interested in adopting a learner-centered approach by outlining a variety of practical learning-centered strategies across the five constructs of the framework. She also provided some structures that could help readers process whether they must be "all in" on a learner-centered approach or how they can teach along a continuum of learner-centered approaches that match their philosophy, students, content, and time-constraints.
In this semester-long institute, we will read her book (which is available for download as an e-book) to deepen our own understanding of the learner-centered approach and learning-centered strategies. We will spend time in each session: 1) discussing a chapter in the book, 2) critically reflecting on what strategies work for whom and under what conditions (including sharing our own teaching experiences), 3) engaging in individual workshop time to develop strategies to use in spring courses, and 4) sharing ideas and receiving feedback from others on our teaching ideas. Our end goal will be to be prepared to implement at least one learning-centered strategy in a spring semester class and then share our reflections with the larger JMU teaching community later in the spring (e.g., through May Symposium, Teaching Toolbox, CFI Faculty Program, CFI Faculty Lounge, etc.).
Program Dates, Time & Locations
- Monday, September 7, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. at Rose Library 5211
- Monday, September 21, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. online via Zoom
- Monday, October 5, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. online via Zoom
- Monday, October 19, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. online via Zoom
- Monday, November 2, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. online via Zoom
- Monday, November 16, 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. online via Zoom
- Monday, December 7, 12:30 - 2:00 at Rose Library 5211
The Zoom meeting link will be provided with the registration confirmation email and reminder email. Reminder emails are usually sent out the day before the event.
Facilitator: Lori Gano-Overway, CHBS & CFI
Genre: Institute
Program Outcomes
- Fostering awareness of the five constructs associated with a learner-centered teaching approach
- Developing feasible learning-centered strategies to use in the classroom
- Building a supportive teaching community around use of learner-centered teaching practices and sharing examples from a variety of disciplines
- Presenting to the larger teaching community about the multiple ways to engage in learner-centered teaching approach across the five constructs (e.g., through May Symposium, Teaching Toolbox, CFI Faculty Program, CFI Faculty Lounge, etc.)
Attendance & Registration Information
Programs within the CFI are designed to support the development of instructional faculty and AP faculty with instructional responsibilities. We also welcome staff to many of our programs. If you are interested in attending one of our programs but do not identify with the above classifications, please email cfi@jmu.edu.
For more information on registering for our programs, please visit the CFI Programs & Events web page, which includes details on registering for programs and an instructional video on how to use the registration portal.
LOG IN: If this is your first time visiting the registration page, your account will be created automatically when you sign in with your JMU e-ID and password (Okta required). Be sure to clear your browser cache/cookies upon each visit to the registration page.
- Complete your profile information:
- Update your college/division and department (use the search feature and/or select from the dropdown) and enter your Mail Stop Code (MSC) for your department on-campus mail.
- Add comments about your dietary and accommodation needs at the bottom of the profile form. (This information is collected and stored with your online account for all future programs you may attend.)
- Once your profile is complete, you should see a status update as complete on your Dashboard (an overview of your account).
Register by Tuesday, September 1, at 11:59 p.m.
Cancellations
If you find that you are unable to attend a scheduled event prior to the registration deadline, please return to your CFI Program Account and cancel your registration. If it is after the event registration deadline email cfi@jmu.edu as early as possible.
CFI programs will be canceled automatically if JMU is closed for inclement weather.
We want this program to be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for all of our participants. Please describe any considerations or accommodations (e.g., dietary, disability, wellness, cultural, etc.) you want us to know about in your account profile. You may also reach out to us at cfi@jmu.edu or (540) 568-4846.