Defining a T1 University

Institutions of higher education are experiencing a paradigm shift. Research activity has long been seen as separate from teaching and of greater value to the institution's prestige and impact. We take the view that the bedrock of all institutions of higher education is effective, evidence-based, student-centered, culturally relevant pedagogy. An institution claiming to have achieved the highest levels of teaching effectiveness does not separate research from teaching, but instead views teaching as a scholarly act, and signals this value through its reward structure. T1 universities will have mechanisms for objective metrics to determine effective teaching and learning, to include inventories, observation protocols, and self-reflections and growth mindset. Student efficacy at such an institution is high, as they are empowered both by the inclusive instruction they experience in the classroom and the disciplinary research opportunities they are offered. Skills for future career success, such as communication, empathy, and teamwork, are integrated into all areas of study.

There are currently no metrics to measure whether any institution meets the criteria of teaching excellence. Consequently, a working group has been pursuing the idea of "T1" designation, to mirror the Carnegie Classifications for Institutions of Higher Education (R1, R2, M1, M2, etc,) that measure research activity. We aim to complete a meta-analysis surrounding, "what constitutes a T1" and will present these ideas in this session. We welcome willing partners, strong objectors, and constructive supporters to help us frame a rubric in pursuit of this idea.