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.

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Featured Programs

University Practicum: The Science of How Students Learn

Feb. 16–Mar. 12 or Apr. 7–30

Engage in interactive sessions and Learning Labs on timely topics, individualized consultations to explore practical teaching strategies, and a featured presentation on understanding and amplifying student motivation.

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April 7 | 12–12:45 PM

Drawing from field experiments and psychological theory, social psychologist and Northwestern professor Mesmin Destin offers insights into how educators can foster environments that embrace students' backgrounds to support their persistence and well-being.

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

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

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

Selected by the campus community, this year’s University Practicum focuses on the science of how students learn. Partici...

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