Document Type
Chapter
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Documenting Teaching Excellence
Editor
Karin deJonge-Kannan and Travis N. Thurston
Publisher
Utah State University
Publication Date
2025
First Page
267
Last Page
282
Abstract
We confess our teaching is not always exemplary and our students often struggle to learn. We argue that intentionally pursuing professional learning is the only way to improve our teaching, and that documenting this learning is imperative when we make the case for teaching excellence. This chapter will examine the common lament of “I just don’t have time” for professional learning, followed by a discussion of how to exchange this self-sabotaging notion for a self-sustaining alternative, and a description of the benefits of documenting professional growth. The aim of this chapter is three-fold: to argue that “I just don’t have time” stifles instructors’ professional learning and growth, to frame the argument around values and priorities, and to offer practical strategies for making time to pursue and document professional learning.
Recommended Citation
Lyman, Sharon and deJonge-Kannan, Karin, "16. Confronting "I Just Don't Have Time": An Argument for Seeking and Documenting Professional Learning" (2025). Documenting Teaching Excellence. Paper 21.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/documenting_teaching_excellence/21