Resources

For Undergraduate Students

The Chicago Center for Teaching and Learning is here to support your learning throughout your time at the University. Through workshops, panels, online resources, and collaborations with other offices, we hope to share with you usable, evidence-informed practices for effective learning at the University of Chicago. We invite you to explore our upcoming events for undergrads and learning resources below.

We Want Your Input!

Share your ideas for undergrad learning programs and resources!

Has a professor positively impacted your learning?

Take a moment to thank them through the Chicago Center for Teaching and Learning (CCTL)’s Thank-a-Prof program. You can submit handwritten or digital notes (with your name or anonymously) and the CCTL will send them to your professors at the end of the term. Click here to learn more!

Learning Resources

While many universities follow a semester system, the University of Chicago embraces a different learning structure: the 9-week quarter. Under this system, students typically take three to four courses per quarter, resulting in more classes over the course of your undergraduate career compared to the semester system. This structure enables you to explore a wide variety of learning topics. Because your classes are condensed into a shorter teaching period, though, the content that your instructors choose to cover will be more targeted and demand more intensive engagement throughout the quarter. We invite you to explore the following resource, informed by insights from UChicago undergraduate students and CCTL staff, about tips for making the most of your learning during the 9-week quarter.

Class discussions are a fundamental component of the UChicago learning experience, whether it arises in your Core courses, major requirements, or elective classes. Class discussions provide a valuable opportunity to explore and deepen your understanding of course materials with your instructor and peers. However, it is normal to find these spaces intimidating or difficult to navigate, especially if you are not accustomed to this type of learning environment. To help you make the most of these learning spaces, we have gathered some tips from UChicago instructors on how to navigate class discussions effectively.

Attending office hours helps to address the time limitations of the 9-week quarter, which only allows a short period of time for students, TAs, and professors to engage with each other in class. Office hours provide students with the opportunity to ask questions and get additional help on course assignments. In addition, they are an excellent way for students to get to know their professors, provide feedback on a course, discuss professional goals and research opportunities, and more. We invite you to explore this resource, shaped by insights from UChicago instructors, on how to effectively navigate and make the most of office hours as well as other opportunities for communication with your professors.

For Undergraduate Students

We Want Your Input!

Has a professor positively impacted your learning?

Learning Resources

Upcoming Events

What I Want My Students to Know About Reading

How to Study for Exams

More Than Words: A Discussion on AI and Writing for Undergraduates