ACUE Certificate in Teaching Effectiveness

Are you looking to elevate your teaching practices and make a meaningful impact on student learning? Look no further than ACUE, the provider of evidence-based teaching practices designed to empower faculty and transform classrooms.

2024-25 ACUE cohort group photo Faculty Success and Provost Michael McPherson honored the 2024-25 faculty cohort at the ACUE Pinning Ceremony in May 2025.

What is ACUE?

ACUE logo ACUE's Effective Teaching Framework is a comprehensive, evidence-based, professional development initiative designed to equip faculty members with the essential skills and knowledge to implement effective teaching strategies that promote student success and retention. Developed in collaboration with renowned educators and researchers, ACUE's program is grounded in the latest research on effective teaching and learning strategies.

ACUE differs from the Certificate of Excellence in Teaching Online (CETO) program offered by CLEAR at UNT. CETO is geared towards online teaching and course development, while ACUE targets in-person, more traditional courses and labs. We strongly encourage faculty to complete both programs but advise against enrolling concurrently.

Benefits of the ACUE Teaching Framework

Participants will learn and apply research-backed teaching practices that can significantly improve student engagement, comprehension, and retention.

Faculty members will have the opportunity to grow professionally, staying abreast of the latest in pedagogical innovation and research.

Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate in Effective College Instruction endorsed by the American Council on Education, recognizing their commitment to educational excellence.

Joining the ACUE program provides faculty with the chance to become part of a national network of educators committed to best practices in teaching. This community offers a platform for sharing experiences, strategies, and challenges.

Ultimately, the most significant benefit is the positive impact on our students. By enhancing our teaching practices, we contribute to a more supportive, engaging, and effective learning experience for every student.

What Does the ACUE Program Cover?

Learn how to ensure learner-centered course outcomes, build an inclusive syllabus, and more.

The learning environment you build impacts persistence, learning, and chances for student success. Learn how to lead a productive first day, promote a civil learning environment, motivate your students, and more.

From group learning activities, to planning effective discussions, you'll unlock evidence-based strategies that promote active learning, giving all students the chance to be fully involved in their own education.

Advanced questioning, powerful note-taking skills, and beyond. Learn the strategies that can deepen learning and enhance every teaching moment.

Learn the methods of formative and summative assessment that best promote learning and help you refine your teaching. From equitable grading practices to providing useful feedback - and more.

How Does it Work?

Faculty Success will host its third cohort of the ACUE program during the 2025-26 academic year. ACUE is a commitment of one academic year.

Modules

The program includes online, moderated modules facilitated via Canvas throughout the academic year. Faculty will have access to the program in early August to begin applying the material as they prepare their fall classes.

Community of Practice

Faculty member smiling at a table with colleagues The ACUE program also includes Community of Practice (COP) meetings. These COP meetings support faculty's ability to further engage with and apply the program content. COP meetings are held once a month and are facilitated by the Faculty Director for Teaching Development and Effectiveness in Faculty Success. Faculty from Frisco, Discovery Park, and Denton campuses are encouraged to participate. Lunch is provided.

If you have questions about ACUE, contact Yolanda Mitchell, Faculty Director of Teaching Effectiveness, at yolanda.mitchell@unt.edu or reach out to faculty.success@unt.edu.