Instructional development for teachers in higher education: effects on students' learning outcomes

Abstract

Evidence regarding the impact of teachers' instructional development on student learning in higher education is scarce. In this study, we investigate the impact of an instructional development program for beginning university teachers on students’ learning outcomes. We also explore whether this impact is dependent on class size and student level. Quantitative data were gathered from more than 1000 students at pre- and post-tests, using a quasi-experimental design. A multi-level analysis was conducted in which five models were estimated. The results show limited effects of teachers’ instructional development. Several interpretations and perspectives for further research are discussed.

Keywords:

• teachers' instructional development
• higher education
• students' learning outcomes
• effects

Notes

1. This characteristic refers to the distinction between first year students and non-first year students as well as to the differences in academic level between students, specified in terms of global end mark obtained the previous academic year.