Drive Student Success Through Quality Instruction

Partnering With Colleges and Universities to Elevate Teaching, Learning, and Student Outcomes

The Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) is dedicated to student success through high-quality instruction. In partnership with higher education institutions, we offer the only nationally recognized Effective Teaching certification, endorsed by the American Council on Education (ACE), supported by a vibrant online community of practice focused on advancing teaching excellence.

ACUE-certified faculty deliver exceptional teaching in every class, resulting in higher student engagement, improved achievement, and stronger retention—outcomes that enhance institutional impact and support long-term student success.

Effective Teaching Framework^®

ACUE’s Effective Teaching Framework is the foundation for every course, pathway, and certification we offer. Grounded in research, it defines the essential instructional skills all college educators should master. Through this framework, faculty move from foundational knowledge to higher-order learning—applying evidence-based approaches, refining their teaching, and engaging in meaningful reflection with peers and experts.

Designing an Effective Course

Ensuring Learner-Centered Course Outcomes
Designing Aligned Assessments and Assignments
Aligning Learning Experiences With Course Outcomes
Preparing an Effective Syllabus

Establishing a Productive Learning Environment

Starting Strong
Fostering a Productive Learning Environment
Motivating Your Students
Advancing Achievement for All Students
Helping Students Persist in Their Studies

Using Active Learning Strategies

Using Groups to Ensure Active Learning
Using the Active Learning Cycle
Developing Effective Class Sessions and Lectures
Planning Effective Discussions
Facilitating Engaging Discussions

Promoting Higher Order Thinking

Providing Clear Directions and Explanations
Using Concept Maps and Other Visualization Tools
Teaching Powerful Note-Taking Skills
Using Advanced Questioning Techniques
Developing Self-Directed Learners

Assessing to Inform Instruction and Promote Learning

Developing Fair, Consistent, and Transparent Grading Practices
Creating Clarity with Checklists and Rubrics
Providing Useful Feedback
Checking for Student Understanding
Using Student Achievement and Feedback to Improve Your Teaching

Our Guiding Principles

Teaching excellence transforms lives. We show up every day with purpose and energized by what’s at stake—for students, faculty, staff, and every institution that puts their trust in us. We strive to bring joy, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to everything we do. It’s who we are and how we work.

Pursue Excellence

Set the bar high, meet it, then raise it.

Be Authentic

Share your perspective—your voice and experience make us better.

Collaborate With Purpose

Engage with empathy, welcome diverse perspectives, and build better solutions together.

Recognize Success

Celebrate wins, find joy in the work, and lift up the people around you.

Lead With Integrity

Say what you mean, do what you say, and take responsibility for your actions.

Drive Student Success Through Quality Instruction