Learning comes naturally to Haroon Sahotra, professor of civil and environment engineering and now director of the Teaching and Learning Commons (TLC), a campus resource hub for academic faculty. As the son of two educators, he strives to enhance his teaching methods and leave a deeper, more meaningful impact on his students.

Throughout his academic career, Sahotra says he has identified teaching tactics that helped transform the way he interacts with the subject matter. He's developed  lesson plans to not only instill knowledge but also inspire critical thinking and engagement. It's these methods that has led Sahotra on the path to oversee the TLC programming that aims to shape faculty into transformative educators to empower student learning.

The TLC was rebranded from the Faculty Center to create a dedicated hub focused on teaching, learning, and faculty development. During the TLC launch week, faculty can explore the center’s programming, training, and tools.  

Tell us about yourself.

My career brought me to UNLV about 16 years ago. In addition to my role as a professor of civil and environmental engineering, I am the director of the Teaching and Learning Commons, where I oversee faculty development learning opportunities and resources. 

My expertise is in remote sensing, GIS, and water resources. My research focuses on applying geospatial technologies to address critical environmental challenges such as urban climate, flooding, and sustainability in arid regions.

Can you share the main goals of the Teaching and Learning Commons and how they align with UNLV's mission?

The main goals of TLC are to build relational connections among learners and educators, increase everyone's sense of value and belonging, promote a growth mindset, and elevate the value of teaching practice for faculty. Our mission includes advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusivity within the UNLV community and beyond.

These goals are aligned with UNLV’s commitment to advancing student achievement, promoting social justice, equity, and inclusion in teaching and learning practices, and fostering community partnerships.

Could you elaborate on TLC’s efforts to promote equity, diversity, and inclusivity?

We are developing programs designed to help instructors become more reflective teachers, enabling them to adopt inclusive practices that meet the diverse needs of our students. We are also in the process of hiring an inclusive teaching specialist, who will further support faculty in implementing effective strategies for an equitable learning environment.

Additionally, we have established a TLC General Council with representatives from all units on campus, ensuring that TLC programming, planning, and implementation are guided by an inclusive and democratic process that reflects the voices and needs of the entire UNLV community.

What inspired you to get into your field, and how is your expertise relevant in your role overseeing the TLC?

My passion for science and engineering stems from my upbringing, as both of my parents were teachers who instilled in me a love for education. Inspired by their commitment, I developed an interest in teaching and engineering education. As an instructor, I am always seeking new methods and technologies to enhance the teaching and learning process. I also have worked on various educational grants aimed at promoting STEM education.

These experiences have evolved into my current roles to co-create and oversee TLC in its formative years. As the director of TLC, I am committed to creating innovative and inclusive educational environments that support both students and educators in their growth.

Why do you believe the TLC is an important resource for academic faculty?

The TLC is important for academic faculty as it aims to support their professional growth. Our initiatives for academic faculty to promote inclusive teaching practices and encourage reflective practices to better serve students are integral to the learning environment at UNLV. Our offerings include creating opportunities for faculty development and collaborations to encourage interdisciplinary learning.

What specific resources or programs does TLC offer to enhance teaching strategies for instructors?

The TLC has several ongoing programs and more in the pipeline for 2024-25. The TLC has been recognizing excellence in teaching through various teaching awards during the Annual Achievement Awards ceremony.

The TLC also keeps faculty informed about available resources, upcoming events, and important updates through websites and our TLC Sunday Newsletter. We also manage a faculty lounge and a multipurpose room that provides space to instructors for meetings, seminars, faculty development workshops, and teaching-focused communities of practices. 

Tell me about a moment when you sought support from UNLV’s faculty resources that shaped where you are today.

As a junior faculty member, I participated in the faculty mentoring program, which provided invaluable guidance during my early career years. Participating in writing groups offered by the Faculty Center helped in my research scholarly output. Additionally, I engaged in numerous workshops and institutes focused on teaching and mentoring, which enriched my pedagogical approach. The Office of Online Education’s workshops were particularly instrumental in integrating technology into my teaching, allowing me to develop innovative methods that better engage my students. These resources collectively contributed to my growth and success as a faculty member at UNLV.

Best tip or advice for new academic faculty to UNLV?

My best tip for new faculty is to balance your efforts between teaching and research while limiting service to essential commitments. Make the most of UNLV’s resources and avoid reinventing the wheel whenever possible.

How can the campus community get involved with the TLC?

The campus community can actively engage with the TLC in several impactful ways. Stay informed by reading the TLC Sunday Newsletter, where we provide updates and announcements about upcoming events and initiatives. Participate in our activities and programs, such as attending the various events planned for TLC Launch Week on Sept. 16-20. Additionally, consider volunteering to serve on committees dedicated to planning and developing TLC programs, which provides valuable input and helps shape our efforts. Your involvement not only enhances your professional growth but also contributes to the collective success of our educational community.