RISE Instructor Orientation is a foundational component of the broader RISE framework at IKU SFL. It is designed not only to welcome and equip new instructors but also to engage all instructors—new and returning—in practices and updates that support clarity, continuity, and collegiality across the institution. Orientation activities may cover any institutional process, platform, or pedagogical initiative that requires shared understanding. While all instructors benefit from ongoing orientation throughout the year, new instructors also receive additional onboarding support focused on key tools (e.g., CATS and EBYS), policies, and procedures specific to their transition into the institution.
Key Goals
- To ensure all instructors understand institutional systems and expectations
- To promote instructional alignment across classrooms
- To create a strong sense of community and collegial support
- To encourage early and ongoing professional development engagement
Structure & Components
RISE Instructor Orientation unfolds in stages, beginning before the semester starts and continuing into the academic year. It includes core institutional meetings, practical training, and structured integration activities to ensure instructors, especially those new to IKU SFL, are fully supported.
Key orientation activities include:
- Initial meeting with the department, where instructors are welcomed.
- Distribution of handbooks and guides, covering course policies, grading, assessment procedures, and professional development expectations.
- Participation in standardization meetings led by the core commissions (Curriculum and Co-Curricular Activities, Planning, Professional Development, Testing), which ensure alignment and shared understanding of expectations across the teaching team.
- Structured training sessions for new instructors on institutional platforms such as CATS (Learning Management System) and EBYS (Electronic Document Management System) to ensure confident use of essential tools, and other asynchronous courses in the field of education.
