SHIFT Spark
SHIFT: Scholars in Human-Centered, Innovative, and Forward-Thinking Teaching
A professional learning series for educators ready to humanize learning and lead systemic change.
The Siebel Center for Design (SCD) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is proud to offer the Scholars in Human-Centered, Innovative, and Forward-thinking Teaching (SHIFT) Program. This initiative is designed to empower educators across Illinois with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to integrate Human-Centered Design (HCD) into their teaching practices.
SHIFT participants explore core HCD principles and their applications in education, culminating in the creation of a workshop, course, or program designed to teach HCD concepts. By tapping into SCD’s expertise, the program fosters innovation in teaching and strengthens collaboration among scholars statewide.
This bite-sized session is designed to plant the seed of human-centered thinking in educational spaces. Through a compact series of reflective and creative exercises, participants get a taste of the SHIFT mindset and walk away with one actionable idea they can bring into their classroom or curriculum.
Introductory | Fast-Paced | Thought-Provoking
Available by request whenever convenient for you. Schedule your department or institution's SHIFT Spark session today! Sessions must be requested at least 3 weeks in advance.
SHIFT offers an approachable, engaging introduction to a mindset that puts students at the center of educational design—no design experience required.
Format
- 2 hours
- Virtual or in-person options
- No prior experience needed
- Perfect for sparking interest among broader faculty audiences
Learning Outcomes
- Gain a foundational understanding of HCD in educational contexts
- Identify one challenge in their current practice
- Use simple tools to explore learner perspectives and reframe their challenge
- Prototype a small shift or new idea
- Receive feedback and reflect on next steps