Skip to main content

Searle Center

Transformative teaching as a catalyst for lifelong learning.

Who We Are

Since 1992 the Searle Center’s mission has been to advance learning.

We are committed to deepening reflective, evidence-informed, and innovative pedagogical practices; bolstering student success and instructor vitality; and stimulating assessment to drive substantive course and curricular change. Aligned with the University priority of delivering an outstanding educational experience, we lead initiatives to enhance teaching and learning so all students can thrive at Northwestern. We partner to build a robust educational development infrastructure and expand capacity for strategic institutional change.

Strategic Plan 2025–2030

Explore innovative ideas for lasting impact.

Learn more.

Featured Programs & Events

New Faculty Mixer
October 8, 2025 | 3:30 pm—4:30 pm

Join us at the Searle Center house for a casual mixer where new faculty members can connect with peers, educational developers, and  last year's cohort of new faculty.

RSVP
November 19, 2025 | 3:00 pm—4:00 pm (CT)

Pedagogical Innovations in STEM is a scholarly exchange showcasing leading-edge research that informs teaching and learning strategies. At our fall event, chemistry professor Carine Nemr discusses enhances classroom engagement with iClickers. Online.

Register
Monday, December 15, 2025 | 10 am–4 pm

Experiment with dynamic, evidence-informed instruction in this lab designed for instructors at any career stage. Invigorate courses with fresh ideas for active, collaborative, and experiential learning, and apply easy-to-implement formative assessment techniques.

Register

Featured Guides & Resources

Enhancing Learning in the Age of Generative AI
As generative AI (GAI) becomes increasingly integrated into learning and teaching in higher education, instructors are navigating complex questions around academic integrity and student learning. While many emerging policies emphasize detection and sanctions, the Searle Center has created a three-part series on pedagogy and GAI, which offers a proactive alternative by centering trust, transparency, reflection, and student agency.
See the Series
Teaching During Turbulent Times
Classroom environments have felt the impacts of a world faced with crises. Worry and fear can influence how students show up in classrooms and their ability to focus on learning. This Learning & Teaching Guide offers ten strategies for instructors to support students during turbulent times while also being attentive to their own professional and personal well-being.
EXPLORE THE GUIDE
Holistic Approaches to Student Success
National expert on student engagement Jillian Kinzie discusses the connection between enhanced academic rigor and students' sense of belonging in her keynote address, "Transforming Institutional Cultures: Holistic Approaches to Student Success," presented for Northwestern University, January 2025. Video is available to Northwestern community members with University credentials.
WATCH THE VIDEO

News

Upcoming Events

Oct
8
2025

New Faculty Mixer

3:30 PM 627 Dartmouth Place
Join us for a casual mixer where you’ll connect with peers and last year’s new faculty cohort in our welcoming gathering...
Oct
14
2025

Student Experiences in STEM

11:00 AM
Student Experiences in STEM is an evidence-driven reading circle focusing on students’ experiences, development, and the...
Nov
19
2025

Pedagogical Innovations in STEM featuring Carine Nemr

3:00 PM
Pedagogical Innovations in STEM is a scholarly exchange offered each quarter, showcasing leading-edge research that info...

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with Searle's latest events, resources, and opportunities for ongoing learning.

Sign Up