Teaching Orientation for Lecturers
Getting Started as a Lecturer at UCSC
The Teaching Orientation for Lecturers is a one-day introduction to teaching at UC Santa Cruz, held before the start of Fall Quarter. This program provides Lecturers and Visiting Assistant Professors (VAPs) with essential support as they begin their teaching roles—introducing UCSC’s students, teaching culture, and instructional resources.
All newly appointed and incoming Lecturers and VAPs are invited, including those who started in the previous academic year. The orientation prepares participants with the most important tools and knowledge to begin teaching successfully, while also fostering a sense of belonging in UCSC’s teaching community.
What You’ll Learn
The orientation is designed to give Lecturers and VAPs the knowledge and tools they need to start strong in the classroom. Core sessions will cover:
- Equity-minded and inclusive teaching practices
- UCSC student support services
- Strategies for collaborating with TAs and teaching teams
- Educational technologies for inclusive and engaging learning
Breakout groups provide opportunities to explore specific topics in more depth, such as:
- Making the most of UCSC’s educational technology tools
- Teaching large lecture courses
- Building inclusive syllabi and assessments
How to Participate
The next Teaching Orientation for Lecturers will take place in September 2026.
Please check back in the spring for the confirmed date. All new and incoming Lecturers and Visiting Assistant Professors from any discipline will receive an invitation and are encouraged to attend.
This is an in-person, full-day program, and participants are expected to attend the entire session. The orientation is designed to be practical, interactive, and supportive, offering both essential information and opportunities to connect with colleagues.
Lecturers and VAPs who complete the program are be eligible for educational enrichment funds up to $300, available through reimbursement, which can be used to attend national conferences or certificate programs related to teaching, or to purchase teaching materials, equipment, or pedagogy books. All funds must be used by June 30 of the academic year.