Teaching Matters is celebrating its 15th annual interdisciplinary conference at Gordon State College March 3-4. This year's theme is "Engaging Students, Empowering Educators."

Presentations/discussions will focus on innovative and creative pedagogical methods, approaches to various texts and/or concepts, and theories. The conference is open to all who have a passion for pedagogy. Conference presentations are designed so that educators can share ideas and strategies that promote student success, student engagement, and active learning.

Dr. Maryellen Weimer recently discussed three interconnected aspects of student engagement - behavioral, emotional, and cognitive - in "What Does Student Engagement Look Like?" While she defines each of the parts of engagement, it is important for educators to continually work together to explore the various modes of promoting student engagement, whether it be application of pedagogical theories, implementing teaching techniques, or using educational technology. Collaboration, as offered through the Teaching Matters conference, is one way to empower educators across all disciplines to better engage their students. There are just as many ways to empower educators as there are to engage students. Therefore, "Engaging Students, Empowering Educators" is a broad theme that allows presenters to focus on either or both of the parts.

Dr. Michele DiPietro is this year's keynote speaker. He is the Executive Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and a Professor in the Department of Statistics and Analytical Sciences at Kennesaw State University. You can read more about him online: http://www.magnapubs.com/authors/200.html.

For questions, please contact Dr. Erica Johnson at ejohnson@gordonstate.edu or visit the Teaching Matters page at http://www.gordonstate.edu/teachingmatters/home