The Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning (FCTL) was established in 2019 as part of the UMB strategic planning process. The FCTL's mission is to advance evidence-based teaching, learning, and evaluation practices throughout the University community.

Advancing Educational Excellence at UMB

The Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning (FCTL) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is dedicated to advancing evidence-based teaching, learning, and evaluation practices across the University community. As a central resource for all UMB schools, the center provides support and resources for faculty to enhance their teaching and improve student learning outcomes.

Our Mission

Established in 2019 as part of the UMB strategic planning process, the FCTL's mission is to support and empower current and aspiring faculty through comprehensive development programs, innovative teaching practices, and a collaborative community of practice. We aim to enhance teaching excellence, foster professional growth, and contribute to the scholarship of teaching and learning, ultimately improving student learning outcomes and promoting an inclusive and engaging educational environment. 

What We Offer

The FCTL is a hub of teaching excellence, offering a wide range of programs, services, and resources, and actively contributing to the scholarship of teaching and learning. Here are some of the ways we support faculty at UMB.

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What's Happening

Check out some of our latest news along with upcoming programs and events.


AI Studio at UMB

Applications Due August 1, 2025

In partnership with the Leaders in Education: Academy of Presidential Scholars (LEAPS), FCTL is launching the AI Studio at UMB—a nine-month, faculty-led fellowship supporting innovation and research in the ethical and effective use of generative AI in graduate and professional education.

Fellows will: Design and implement a small-scale innovation or research project, receive $2,500 in professional development support, and join a cross-disciplinary faculty learning community

Apply or learn more:

AI Studio at UMB

Ed Crafters Community Connection

Registration Open for AY 2025–2026
The Ed Crafters Community Connection (EC3) is a virtual professional learning community designed to help faculty and staff take their first steps into the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). EC3 offers a collegial, interdisciplinary space for reflection on teaching, exploration of educational research, and connection with colleagues across UMB.

The community includes monthly Zoom meetings from Sep-May (third Fridays, 12:00–1:00 p.m.), is open to faculty and staff across all UMB schools, and supports optional attendance; flexible participation

Register or learn more:
Ed Crafters Community Connection

Future Educators Academy

The Future Educators Academy (FEA) is an innovative program designed for prospective Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs). Developed in collaboration with Academic Affairs, the Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning (FCTL), and UMB schools, the FEA is committed to providing a tailored educational development experience for graduate students pursuing careers in education.

Apply to be a GTA or Faculty Mentor or learn more:

Future Educators Academy

Be a Voice of Teaching and Learning at UMB!

Volunteer Cohost Wanted – “Moving the Needle” Podcast 

Are you passionate about teaching and learning? Do you love engaging conversations and sharing ideas that inspire change? The FCTL’s Moving the Needle podcast is looking for a new cohost — and it could be you! Join current cohosts Erin Hagar and Scott Riley, along with producer Sharon Gillooly, to help shape the topics, style, and schedule of this faculty-focused show. 

What we're looking for:

  • Passion for teaching & learning
  • Ability to connect with an audience
  • Ideas for growing the show’s reach and impact 

Benefits of being a cohost:

  • Build connections across campus
  • Contribute service to the university
  • Create content that can support your scholarship 

How to apply:

Send a email a brief statement of interest to Sharon Gillooly (sgillooly@umaryland.edu) by September 1 including: 

  • Why you’d like to be a cohost
  • Your experience (formal or informal)
  • A few ideas for future episodes 

Help us move the needle — one episode at a time! Learn more about the podcast on our website: 

Moving the Needle Podcast