ND Great Teachers' Seminar
May 15 -18, 2007
Medora, North Dakota

This is a small retreat (about 30 – 35 people) that brings college teachers together to learn from each other and exchange teaching ideas and solutions. In spite of what the name might suggest, the seminar is not so much an assembly of “great teachers” as it is a group of dedicated educators in search of the “great teacher” within themselves.  With no experts or keynote speakers, the seminar is based on the principle that teachers are the experts in teaching and learn best from one another.

We have had the distinct pleasure of having David Gottshall, the founder of the National Great Teachers Seminar, come to North Dakota many times over the last 18 years to facilitate this seminar.  He will be leading us in Medora this spring as well. The North Dakota Community College Consortium has funded and supported this very unique workshop that concentrates on the art of teaching. 

The five two-year colleges can send 7 faculty members to participate.  All expenses are paid (the individual colleges pick up the travel fees) and includes a $250 stipend.  Each participant will bring to the seminar two “one page” papers for discussion, focusing on 1) an innovation in classroom teaching and 2) a specific problem encountered while teaching.  Seminar staff will lead sessions centered around the special interests and problems of participants. There is an activity or fun group event planned for one afternoon as well.

In mid-May, Medora is not busy and we will have the place to ourselves.  We want to maintain a “retreat” setting, but have great food, accommodations, activities and scenery to enjoy.  It starts around 4 -5 pm on May 15 and ends after lunch on May 18.  Many faculty members that have gone over the past years have found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences personally and professionally.

If you are interested in attending, please contact your NDCCC representative for more information.