Initiatives
OTEAR conducts research on new methods of teaching, learning, and assessment that are disseminated throughout the University.
OTEAR’s Initiatives
The Office of Teaching Evaluation and Assessment Research provides resources and assistance in the development of teaching assessment methods and the improvement of teaching. OTEAR stays ahead of the curve, ensuring that we provide the most up-to-date resources for Rutgers faculty, instructors, and staff on the latest developments in higher education, such as artificial intelligence, learning analytics, and microcredentials.
Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education
Since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022, OTEAR has been carefully following the discussions surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) as we recognize the need to provide timely advice, useful information, and best practices for the consideration of our instructors, students, and colleagues. AI is a transformative force in the world of higher education, and it is just beginning to reshape the way we think about learning, teaching, and the development of skills. As the capabilities of AI continue to advance, its integration into higher education brings forth a multitude of opportunities and challenges.
Learning Analytics to Support Student Success
The purpose of Learning Analytics is to support and improve the learning of students. This includes evaluating, diagnosing, and providing appropriate scaffolds to help students reach their learning goals. Ensuring students become reflective, self-motivated, and lifelong learners is another important aspect of Learning Analytics.
Digital Badging and Microcredentials
A microcredential or digital badge is a method of documenting a student’s work and accomplishments in areas that are not detailed by the traditional transcript. Badging programs break down coursework into smaller components and incorporate co-curricular and extracurricular activities. These are structured into competencies that may align with the interests of prospective employers and graduate programs, with verifiable assessments for measuring student outcomes. Students who complete the requirements can present these badges in a variety of digital formats as evidence of specific skills.
