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.
In the News
The Daily Northwestern showcases the Searle Center's contributions toward University re-accreditation.
Read the articleFeatured Programs
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Reflective & Effective Teaching
Gain confidence in the classroom and on the job market with Reflective & Effective Teaching, a certificate program designed for graduate students and postdocs from all disciplines. Participants learn evidence-based teaching strategies, collaborate closely with a faculty mentor and cohort of peers, and develop authentic teaching artifacts—including a teaching statement and ePortfolio—to showcase their effective, engaging teaching.
Featured Guides & Resources
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.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.News
Upcoming Events
Apr
24
2025
Inclusive Teaching Reading Circle (Principle 5: Cultivate a Welcoming & Inclusive Course Climate)
10:00 AM
During the month of April, the Searle Center is hosting an online reading circle from 10:00-11:00am (CT) each Thursday s...
Apr
24
2025
Reflecting on Your First Year Teaching at Northwestern Luncheon
11:45 AM 1800 Sherman Avenue
The Searle Center will host a lunch for faculty in their first year at Northwestern to share and reflect on learning and...
Apr
24
2025
Faculty Panel on Student Success: Reflections and Illustrations
12:00 PM
Part of the 2025 University Practicum on Supporting Student Success, participants may attend any and all practicum event...
Apr
29
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...
May
6
2025
A Mindful Moment
11:00 AM
In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Day, the Searle Center is hosting 45 minutes of guided meditation, visualization,...
May
6
2025
Getting to Know Our Neurodivergent Students
12:30 PM
Part of the Getting to Know Our Students Series, this 30-minute virtual presentation provides strengths-based approaches...
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