Texas State Technical College Waco | IDEAS Center | Instructional Training Academy

Instructional Training Academy


The Instructional Training Academy (ITA) provides training for instructors, new to both Texas State Technical College (TSTC), and new to the role of instructor. This training allows new instructors the opportunity to discover and practice teaching competencies necessary to become confident and successful in the 21st century classroom environment. During their ITA experience, participants study topics including: teaching and learning styles, active learning and current brain-friendly instructional techniques, strategies to enhance student engagement and motivation, and an introduction to curriculum development. The ITA is taught over 12-13 weeks (depending on class size) starting the 2nd week of each new semester. Below are links to some of the online materials referenced in the Instructional Training Academy.

Brain-Friendly Strategies
Brain-Friendly Strategies by Janet Elder, PH.D.

How the Brain Learns
What You Should Know About Your Brain, by Judy Willis

The Case for the Video Game Model Learning Tool, by Judy Willis

Teaching to Different Learning Styles
Teaching Techniques to Address All Learning Styles, by Dr. Richard Felder

Active Learning Techniques
Tips - Great Active Learning Strategies, by Jeri Asaro

Natural Human Learning Process
Major Points, by Rita Smilkstein

Texas State Technical College Waco|3801 Campus Drive|Waco, Texas 76705|254.799.3611

Brain-Friendly Strategies