Instructional Skills Workshop (ISW)
What is ISW?
The Instructional Skills Workshop (ISW) is a hands-on, intensive workshop designed to support and enhance teaching effectiveness for post-secondary educators. Grounded in experiential learning and peer feedback, ISW helps participants strengthen their skills in lesson planning, student engagement, and reflective practice. Recognized nationally and internationally, ISW is part of a wider network committed to learner-centred instruction and professional growth in education.
Participants engage in a small group setting to design and deliver mini lessons, receive structured feedback, and explore foundational concepts in adult education and active learning. The workshop fosters a supportive environment where faculty can reflect on their teaching practice and build community with peers.
Who is it for?
At Sheridan, ISW is open to:
- Sheridan faculty members wanting to build or refine their teaching practice.
Whether you’re new to teaching or an experienced educator, ISW provides practical tools and peer feedback that helps you enhance your instructional approach.
How to Access ISW at Sheridan
Sheridan offers ISW sessions throughout the academic year. There will be three offerings per year, dates will be published soon.
To participate speak with your Dean or Associate Dean to express your interest.
What to Expect from ISW
The ISW is a three-day, in-person experience that is both practical and reflective. Here’s what participants can expect:
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Instructional Theory: Participants explore principles in adult education, instructional design, and student engagement to help inform your Mini-Lesson approach.
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Collaborative Environment: You’ll join a small group of 4-6 peers, fostering a safe and supportive learning community.
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Mini-Lesson Practice: Each participant prepares and delivers three short lessons (10 minutes each), providing an opportunity to try out new teaching strategies in a supportive environment.
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Peer Feedback: You’ll give and receive feedback from fellow educators following a proven feedback model, developing a deeper understanding of how learners experience your teaching.
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Certificate of Completion: Participants who complete the full three-day workshop receive an ISW certificate recognized across institutions in Canada and beyond.
It’s an energizing, reflective, and rewarding experience that builds confidence and skill in the classroom.
Note: ISW is an intensive, immersive workshop with a minimum time commitment of 24 hours. Full attendance and active participation are essential. We ask that participants make every effort to attend all sessions and complete the program requirements to fully benefit from the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
ISW is a three-day workshop held in-person. Attendance for the full duration is required to receive certification.
No. ISW is free of charge for all full-time and part-time faculty members at Sheridan.
ISW is ideal for new faculty, those looking to enhance their teaching, or anyone interested in reflective and student-centred instructional practices.
Speak with your Dean or Associate Dean, who will coordinate nominations with SPARK.
Yes, all participants who complete the full workshop will receive a certificate of completion, which is recognized across many post-secondary institutions.
Yes. Sheridan’s ISW follows the model and standards of the Instructional Skills Workshop Network (ISW Network), a recognized training model used internationally.
For more information or to inquire about upcoming sessions, please contact SPARK.