Mission, Vision, and Values

Our work is rooted in evidence and is defined by a commitment to iterative growth. We are positioned to provide a wide variety of both general and unit-specific supports in these areas of expertise:

• Course Design and Assessment: We help educators build rigorous, well-aligned courses and curricula, and guide development of assessment strategies that accurately measure and inspire student growth.
• Engaging Practices and Inclusive Pedagogy: We promote evidence-based methods that yield meaningful learning experiences, encourage human interaction, and support instructors in cultivating students’ sense of belonging and agency.
• Instructional Technology and AI: We provide critical support on the intentional application of educational technology, ensuring that tools—including generative AI—supplement good teaching rather than replace it.
• Advising: We support the ongoing development of advisors by aligning their roles with established competencies and best practices in the service of student success.
• Community, Fellowships, and Partnerships: We facilitate learning communities and fellowships that connect educators across MSU, fostering a culture of shared expertise.
• Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL): We assist educators in the inquiry and publication of their pedagogical work, bridging the gap between educational research and classroom reality.
   

Through rich collaboration and evidence-based consultation, the CTLI enables MSU educators to cultivate purposeful and student-centered learning environments as they pursue the intellectual flourishing of every student.
 

To lead as the national model for excellence in educator development, where Michigan State University is defined by an evidence-driven, student-centered culture that pursues equitable and engaging education for all.
 

• Evidence-Informed Practice: We ground our work in the learning sciences and practitioner expertise. We prioritize strategies supported by scholarship over transient or unproven trends.
• Inclusive Practices: We design accessible learning environments that prioritize equitable participation. Our commitment to inclusive practices translates into pedagogical strategies that intentionally reduce instructional and technical barriers for all members of the MSU community.
• Innovation through Iteration: Innovation is a persistent, reflective process aimed at constant, evidence-based improvement. We embrace the courage to try new instructional practices and the discipline to learn from failure.
• Empowerment and Agency: We aim to create the conditions for educators to thrive. We believe that when an educator’s agency is supported and valued, they are better equipped to support, inspire, and challenge their students.
• Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards by acting with transparency, accountability, and consistency. Our support for educators is grounded in evidence-based practice and aligned with the university’s transformative mission.