The CITL is excited to, once again, offer the Topper Teaching Tour. At WKU, we recognize that excellence in teaching is central to student success and faculty development. Yet, opportunities to observe and learn from one another—especially across disciplines—are often limited.
The Topper Teaching Tour offers a unique professional development experience: the chance to observe a colleague’s class. Whether you're looking to refine your own teaching practices, explore new instructional strategies, or gain insight into different learning environments, this initiative fosters a culture of shared learning and pedagogical growth.
During this event, some of WKU’s most accomplished instructors, including recipients of the CITL Teaching Honors Awards and WKU Faculty Award for Teaching are opening their classrooms to help us spark conversation on pedagogy and student success at WKU. The CITL will provide observers with some suggestions for getting the most out of their class visit, an avenue to provide general comments to the course instructor about their experience, and guidance for the observer to think about how they might apply what they observed in their own classes.
Over 30 faculty have opened over 80 class meetings for colleagues to observe. You have the opportunity to observe classes of various sizes, Colonnade classes, major-related classes, flipped classrooms, traditional lecture classes, and labs. There is something for everyone.
To conclude the experience, participants are invited to a wrap-up and reflection session on Friday, October 16. During our time together, we will discuss insights gleaned from the observations as well as talk about what it was like to observe (and be observed!) and how we might continue to foster a culture of open classrooms and conversation around our teaching.”
Browse the available Topper Teaching Tour classroom observations. Use the filters individually—or combine them—to narrow the schedule.
Register to observe for any of classes on the CITL Topper Teaching Tour Signup Genius web page. Please email CITL with any questions.
ASL 101American Sign Language 1
You can expect a full immersion into American Sign Language. The class is taught voice-off with hands on applications and learning.
REC 338Recreation, Parks, and Quality of Life
We explore different countries' relationship with nature. Students bring their thoughts, questions, and epiphanies from the readings and we use them as a starting point for addressing the day's learning objectives.
PSYS 331Principles of Human & Animal Learning
This is a flipped class where students work in small groups on real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of psychological science. They particularly focus on skills that are best practiced without the use of AI.
Please note: Bring a pen/pencil, and come ready to talk to students!
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
JOUR 202Introduction to News Writing
An observer can expect a mix of conversation, writing practice, and discussion of current and foundational issues in journalism and media, with students encouraged to question, explain and defend their thinking.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab. Otherwise, no other rules.
ASL 101American Sign Language 1
You can expect a full immersion into American Sign Language. The class is taught voice-off with hands on applications and learning.
NURS 421High Acuity Nursing
We will have discussion, interactive group case studies, and some hands-on learning practice focused on various heart rhythms and the use of hemodynamic monitoring.
Please note: You do not have to stay the whole time. You can leave when they take a break at 1:30 or 2:30.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
A mostly lecture class with a smattering of discussion thrown into the mix.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
MATH 413Algebra and Technology for Middle Grades Teachers
Students working on problems in groups of 3 related to teaching algebra and technology to middle schoolers.
PSYS 350Social Psychology
Rapport with a group of about 50 and using video equipment to record lecture.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
EXS 324Research Methods in Kinesiology
A mix of lecture with active learning activities.
ASL 101American Sign Language 1
You can expect a full immersion into American Sign Language. The class is taught voice-off with hands on applications and learning.
Biol 305Genome Discovery and Exploration
This is a course-based research experience. Students are actively working toward established goals. There is a significant amount of individualized interaction and Socratic questioning.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab.
ECON 202Principles of Microeconomics
Explore the economic impact of price controls and minimum wage policy in this discussion of government intervention and market efficiency.
PSYS 331Principles of Human & Animal Learning
This is a flipped class where students work in small groups on real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of psychological science. They particularly focus on skills that are best practiced without the use of AI.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
Small break out discussion group based on the week's lectures.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
AS 373Architectural Documentation II
Class will be a combination of lecture and student interaction. Additionally, students will be working on an in class assignment.
REC 338Recreation, Parks, and Quality of Life
We explore different countries' relationship with nature. Students bring their thoughts, questions, and epiphanies from the readings and we use them as a starting point for addressing the day's learning objectives.
PSYS 331Principles of Human & Animal Learning
This is a flipped class where students work in small groups on real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of psychological science. They particularly focus on skills that are best practiced without the use of AI.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
A mostly lecture class with a smattering of discussion thrown into the mix.
MATH 413Algebra and Technology for Middle Grades Teachers
Students working on problems in groups of 3 related to teaching algebra and technology to middle schoolers.
ACCT 430Federal Income Taxation I
The class is a mix of lecture and group work. I use group assignments to improve interaction and facilitate application of the material.
ASTR 104Astronomy of the Solar System
This class will mix teacher demonstrations, lecture and small group activities.
CRIM 330Criminology
Expect to join a team and work with students on the content for the day as you get a taste of what team-based-learning looks and feels like.
ELED 405Math Methods
The topic for the day is teaching problem-based mathematics. Expect hands-on, conceptual strategies that build student understanding and naturally progress toward abstract mathematical thinking.
AD 349Advertising Media
Interactive lesson in which students work in Agency Pods with Artificial Intelligence as a collaborative partner. They will apply the Zero Moment of Truth (ZMOT) framework to map consumer research and decision-making before purchase.
Honors 300Yoga
We will be covering the origins of yoga and breaking down the history of asanas. There will be some lecture, group discussion, and some yoga practice.
CHIN208Chinese Calligraphy
A combination of cultural introduction, lecture, and hands-on learning. Calligraphy supplies will be provided.
Please note: There are no special requirements for visitors, and there is no need to bring any calligraphy supplies. I will have all the necessary materials prepared for the visitors.
PSY 545Clinical Child Psychology: Theory and Practice
You'll see a small, graduate-level course with lots of discussion, role-plays, and hands on activities. Students are learning counseling skills.
EXS 324Research Methods in Kinesiology
A mix of lecture with active learning activities.
EXS 311Physiology of Exercise I
An interactive lecture style class with embedded questioning throughout the lecture. We’ll be discussing foundational information that students can use then apply in an exercise situation. Students also engage in small breakout activities on classroom whiteboards.
LEAD 200Intro to Leadership Studies
This week’s focus is the skills approach to leadership. After a brief lecture, students will complete multiple activity stations, and we’ll have a class debrief on which types of skills were used in each activity.
ECON 486/508Applied Statistical Methods
Econometric modeling using real life data.
Biol 305Genome Discovery and Exploration
This is a course-based research experience. Students are actively working toward established goals. There is a significant amount of individualized interaction and Socratic questioning.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab.
SWRK 620Advanced Psychosocial Approaches for Rural Practice
You will see practical applications of knowledge, skills, and values for advanced micro level social work within a rural area.
NURS 432Medical-Surgical Nursing II
Active student engagement and connecting classroom concepts to real-world clinical practice using Mentimeter, case studies, interactive cardiac rhythm and coronary artery activities, and procedural videos to help students apply concepts and strengthen clinical judgment.
Please note: You do not have to stay the whole time. You can leave when they take a break at 9:00 or 10:00.
AS 373Architectural Documentation II
Class will be a combination of lecture and student interaction. Additionally, students will be working on an in class assignment.
COMM 145Fundamentals of Public Speaking and Communication
We will likely be having class lecture and interaction during this time where students are encouraged to share their thoughts and questions.
REC 338Recreation, Parks, and Quality of Life
We explore different countries' relationship with nature. Students bring their thoughts, questions, and epiphanies from the readings and we use them as a starting point for addressing the day's learning objectives.
JOUR 202Introduction to News Writing
An observer can expect a mix of conversation, writing practice, and discussion of current and foundational issues in journalism and media, with students encouraged to question, explain and defend their thinking.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab. Otherwise, no other rules.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
A mostly lecture class with a smattering of discussion thrown into the mix.
MATH 413Algebra and Technology for Middle Grades Teachers
Students working on problems in groups of 3 related to teaching algebra and technology to middle schoolers.
ACCT 430Federal Income Taxation I
The class is a mix of lecture and group work. I use group assignments to improve interaction and facilitate application of the material.
PSYS 350Social Psychology
Rapport with a group of about 50 and using video equipment to record lecture.
HIST 101World History (Pre-1500): Women and Agency Themed
Students will be learning about women and religions of the Ancient India and China, while working on Quilt Squares for our service learning project.
Please note: Bring your curiosity!
CRIM 330Criminology
Expect to join a team and work with students on the content for the day as you get a taste of what team-based-learning looks and feels like.
REC 434Interpreting America's National Parks
We explore different countries' relationship with nature. Students bring their thoughts, questions, and epiphanies from the readings and we use them as a starting point for addressing the day's learning objectives.
HIST 101World History (Pre-1500): Women and Agency Themed
Students will be learning about women and religions of the Ancient India and China, while working on Quilt Squares for our service learning project.
Please note: Bring your curiosity!
Honors 300Yoga
We will be covering the origins of yoga and breaking down the history of asanas. There will be some lecture, group discussion, and some yoga practice.
PSY 545Clinical Child Psychology: Theory and Practice
You'll see a small, graduate-level course with lots of discussion, role-plays, and hands on activities. Students are learning counseling skills.
EXS 311Physiology of Exercise I
An interactive lecture style class with embedded questioning throughout the lecture. We’ll be discussing foundational information that students can use then apply in an exercise situation. Students also engage in small breakout activities on classroom whiteboards.
LEAD 200Intro to Leadership Studies
Today’s focus is building interpersonal skills through the lens of Emotional Intelligence using the Compass Points activity. This exercise helps to build empathy for people who have different working styles than our own, which strengthens group dynamics.
ECON 486/508Applied Statistical Methods
Econometric modeling using real life data.
Biol 305Genome Discovery and Exploration
This is a course-based research experience. Students are actively working toward established goals. There is a significant amount of individualized interaction and Socratic questioning.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab.
PSYS 331Principles of Human & Animal Learning
This is a flipped class where students work in small groups on real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of psychological science. They particularly focus on skills that are best practiced without the use of AI.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
Small break out discussion group based on the week's lectures.
PSYS 331Principles of Human & Animal Learning
This is a flipped class where students work in small groups on real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of psychological science. They particularly focus on skills that are best practiced without the use of AI.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
A mostly lecture class with a smattering of discussion thrown into the mix.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
MATH 413Algebra and Technology for Middle Grades Teachers
Students working on problems in groups of 3 related to teaching algebra and technology to middle schoolers.
ACCT 430Federal Income Taxation I
The class is a mix of lecture and group work. I use group assignments to improve interaction and facilitate application of the material.
PSYS 350Social Psychology
Rapport with a group of about 50 and using video equipment to record lecture.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
CRIM 330Criminology
Expect to join a team and work with students on the content for the day as you get a taste of what team-based-learning looks and feels like.
ELED 405Math Methods
The topic for the day is teaching problem-based mathematics. Expect hands-on, conceptual strategies that build student understanding and naturally progress toward abstract mathematical thinking.
Honors 300Yoga
We will be covering the origins of yoga and breaking down the history of asanas. There will be some lecture, group discussion, and some yoga practice.
EXS 311Physiology of Exercise I
An interactive lecture style class with embedded questioning throughout the lecture. We’ll be discussing foundational information that students can use then apply in an exercise situation. Students also engage in small breakout activities on classroom whiteboards.
LEAD 200Intro to Leadership Studies
We are learning about vision statements this week. Students will draft the 5 elements of a personal vision as we learn about them and consider how our personal values play into a successful vision.
ECON 486/508Applied Statistical Methods
Econometric modeling using real life data.
Biol 305Genome Discovery and Exploration
This is a course-based research experience. Students are actively working toward established goals. There is a significant amount of individualized interaction and Socratic questioning.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab.
PSYS 331Principles of Human & Animal Learning
This is a flipped class where students work in small groups on real-world scenarios and apply their understanding of psychological science. They particularly focus on skills that are best practiced without the use of AI.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
JOUR 202Introduction to News Writing
An observer can expect a mix of conversation, writing practice, and discussion of current and foundational issues in journalism and media, with students encouraged to question, explain and defend their thinking.
Please note: No food/drink in the lab. Otherwise, no other rules.
HIST 102World History Since 1500
Small break out discussion group based on the week's lectures.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
HIST 101World History to 1500
I try to run a somewhat flipped classroom. Students prepare reading and then we work with the material during class. So it's not content-delivery heavy but (ideally) more students engaging directly with the material and trying to draw some conclusions themselves.
No observation opportunities match those filters. Try another week, day, or college.
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