Introduction to University Life instructors

Are you interested in applying to be an instructor?  Visit our webpage to learn more.

Feedback from Instructors on why they teach Introduction to University Life:

"It keeps me connected to students and helps inform my other work."

"I really enjoy teaching the course and assisting the students. It is an honor to be serving students at the beginning of their college career and adult life."

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Intro to University Life (ASC 101)?

Introduction to University Life (ASC 101) is a one-credit course that assists new students in making a successful transition to Cleveland State University both academically and personally through engaged learning experiences. This course is designed to help new students build relationships, promote engagement in the curricular and co-curricular experience, encourage civility, connect to various resources of the University, and emphasize the expectations of Cleveland State University. It also aims to help students develop and practice skills in the areas of critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and others that can contribute to success in college and beyond.

What is the time commitment?

All instructors teach one day a week for 50 minutes for 15 weeks plus meet once a week with their peer mentor (is applicable). You must be able to commit to being available to teach for all 15 weeks of the semester. We have numerous section time slots available to accomodate different schedules. All instructor candidates can indicate up to three preferences of dates/times on their applications. If selected to teach, First Year Experience will do their best to match you with one of your preferred date/times or will reach out to candidate directly on remaining available sections.

The amount of additional time that you spend varies by instructor based on lesson planning, grading, and other additional activities you may undertake for your section. For instructors who want to teach, but have little time, we have a template syllabus along with lesson plans and activities that can be used with minimal to no customization. We have also built partnerships with various offices on campus who can come to your class to present on a number of topics or the services they provide to CSU students. 

How do I prepare for the class?

There will be a required instructor training held in August. It will focus on how to create a syllabus and course schedule, strategies to build a student centered classroom, overview of university systems, and review any mandatory topics/assignments. You will be introduced to best practices to use in the classroom. Plus you will have the opportunity to meet and talk with other Instructors about the class.

For all new instructors and returning instructors who would like a refresher there will be an additional training session on university systems (Starfish and CampusNet) and setting up your Blackboard for your section. Additionally, all instructors gain access to our Instructor Resources Blackboard site which contains various items to help you arrange and plan for your class. 

What are the requirements to be an instructor?

With a few exceptions, instructors must:

• Current CSU faculty or staff
• Hold Master's Degree. Prior teaching or training experience is preferred.
• Master's Degree seeking students in the Adult Learning Development Program seeking an internship to satisfy requirements in ALD 688. 

Who do I contact for more information about teaching the course?

For all questions please contact Samantha Phillips, Manager- First Year Experience at 216-687-3734 or s.m.phillips16@csuohio.edu