Learning and Teaching Support
AUIB is committed to providing students with a quality learning and teaching experience. We believe that high-quality learning and teaching is life-changing. This is because it fosters individual growth, critical thinking, and innovation, which, in turn, impacts the Iraqi community through the development of informed and empowered individuals. In AUIB, quality learning and teaching is not just encouraged but celebrated.
Mission
The AUIB approach to teaching is to create a classroom learning environment that encourages the development of analytical skills, the ability to synthesize complex ideas and the cultivation of a lifelong passion for learning. AUIB faculty depart from the traditional teaching mode instead viewing themselves as mentors, guides, and facilitators of learning. Effective teaching involves inspiring curiosity, fostering a spirit of inquiry, and providing a supportive framework for students to explore and express their ideas. This is reinforced by a unique approach to the classroom experience based on the notion of transformational classroom leadership.
In AUIB, we are aware that we navigate an era marked by rapid technological advancements, increasing global interconnectedness, and an array of complex societal issues. Accordingly, we are committed to producing graduates who, through their learning and teaching experience, can navigate the challenges of the modern world using a skill set comprising adaptability, creativity, social awareness, and a global perspective.
Initiatives in Place
The AUIB Distinguished Teacher Award
This award recognizes and honors exceptional teaching performance by faculty members who have demonstrated exemplary dedication to the education and academic growth of students. This award serves as a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching and its appreciation for the contributions made by outstanding educators.
Peer Observation of Faculty System
This system involved the process of conducting faculty teaching observations by peers at AUIB. The purpose of these observations is to enhance the quality of teaching, provide constructive feedback, and promote professional development among faculty members. This system aims to support a culture of continuous improvement in teaching and learning at AUIB.
Faculty Mentorship Scheme
The AUIB faculty mentorship scheme is designed to support the professional development and success of faculty members, particularly junior or new faculty or existing faculty who are having difficulties with their classroom teaching, by pairing them with experienced mentors. The purpose is not only to develop and enhance classroom teaching generally but also to familiarize faculty with what works in the specific context of Iraq generally and AUIB specifically.
Teaching Portfolio
A teaching portfolio policy is a mandatory element in the University’s decision-making process regarding faculty promotion, faculty development, contract renewal, and separation decisions. It is also a central component of the distinguished teacher award procedure. The portfolio itself is a collection of evidence that faculty members compile to showcase their teaching philosophy, strategies, and effectiveness in promoting student learning.
Initiatives in Process
Student Peer Learning Support
The Student Peer Learning Support System provides peer support among students. Students who provide peer support have a proven track record of achievement in the courses they are supporting and focus on techniques for success rather than suggesting solutions to course questions.
Student Consultants Program
Student consultants act as peer reviewers of faculty classroom performance. They are trained by AUIB in communications and classroom observation. Faculty engage student consultants voluntarily with the view to obtaining detailed feedback on their classroom teaching from a student perspective.
