University Teaching in the Digital Age
A comprehensive, practical, and research-informed guide for new and experienced college instructors who want to teach more effectively in today’s complex academic environment.
Who this book is for: Current and aspiring higher education instructors, graduate teaching assistants, academic administrators, instructional designers, and faculty developers.
About the Book
Drawing from decades of experience in faculty development, online education, and higher education leadership, Dr. Evan L. Kropp explores how history, technology, pedagogy, and institutional culture intersect to shape the modern classroom. Each chapter blends scholarly insight with actionable strategies that help faculty navigate real-world teaching challenges, whether in-person, hybrid, or online.
Practical & Research-Informed
Applied strategies backed by research — useful on day one of teaching and beyond.
Cross-Modal
Covers face-to-face, hybrid, and online teaching with adaptable examples.
For All Instructors
New faculty, adjuncts, GTAs, and experienced professors will all find value.
Institutionally Aware
Addresses how institutional mission and culture shape teaching practice.
What’s Inside — Chapter Overview
The book guides readers from foundational understanding to applied practice. Click a chapter to expand its summary.
Chapter 1 – The Evolution of Higher Education in the United States
Traces the historical development of American higher education, highlighting key eras and their influence on today’s institutions.
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This chapter offers a concise history of higher education in the U.S., examining how past reforms, access movements, and policy shifts shaped institutional structures and teaching expectations today.
Chapter 2 – The Modern Institutional Landscape
Examines the types of colleges and universities, their missions, and how institutional context shapes teaching expectations.
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Discussion of mission-driven teaching, research vs. teaching institutions, community colleges, liberal arts contexts, and implications for instructional strategy and evaluation.
Chapter 3 – Students in the Digital Age
Explores shifting student demographics, learning preferences, and the implications of diversity, access, and technology for instruction.
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Covers digital natives vs. digital learners, equity of access, learning analytics, and strategies for inclusive design.
Chapter 4 – Modes of Education
Analyzes face-to-face, hybrid, and online teaching formats, providing frameworks for designing effective learning experiences across modalities.
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Practical frameworks for selecting modality-appropriate activities, technology choices, and managing student expectations across formats.
Chapter 5 – Course Design and Learning Outcomes
Introduces backward design, Bloom’s taxonomy, and evidence-based approaches for creating structured, engaging courses.
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Guidance on writing measurable outcomes, aligning assessments, and scaffolding learning over a semester or module.
Chapter 6 – Instructional Strategies and Classroom Dynamics
Discusses strategies for engagement, authority-building, discussion facilitation, and managing in-person and virtual classrooms.
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Techniques include active learning, discussion cycles, micro-lectures, and managing difficult conversations in the classroom.
Chapter 7 – Assessment and Feedback
Offers approaches for aligning assessments with outcomes, delivering meaningful feedback, and maintaining academic integrity.
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Includes rubrics, formative assessment strategies, feedback models, and practical integrity checks for online environments.
Chapter 8 – Preparing for Your First Teaching Assignment
Provides guidance for new instructors on syllabi, classroom management, technology setup, and the first day of class.
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A practical checklist and scripts for day one, sample syllabus templates, and quick tech setup tips.
Chapter 9 – Common Teaching Challenges and Practical Solutions
Addresses workload, burnout, innovation barriers, and student dynamics with tested strategies for balance and effectiveness.
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Advice on time management, setting boundaries, curriculum redesign, and peer support systems.
Chapter 10 – Professional Growth and Faculty Development
Examines the ongoing evolution of the professoriate and the importance of continuous learning, reflection, and adaptability.
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Strategies for reflective teaching, using evidence to improve practice, and finding professional development resources.
Chapter 11 – The Faculty Job Search
Offers insider advice on preparing academic job materials, interviewing, and finding the right institutional fit.
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CV and dossier tips, interview preparation, and aligning teaching statements with institutional mission.
Conclusion – The Future of Teaching and Learning
Reflects on how higher education continues to transform and how faculty can evolve to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.
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Forward-looking ideas about technology, policy, and the changing role of faculty in student success.