A Focus on Excellence in Teaching & Learning
UMPI faculty take pride in their focus on excellence in teaching and learning and use a variety of evidence-based pedagogical approaches in their courses. We believe learning is most powerful when it’s active, inclusive, and connected to the real world. Our approach blends research-informed practices with hands-on experiences to create environments where every student can thrive.
Experiential Education
Learning comes alive through experience. Experiential education connects classroom theory with real-world practice, engaging students in hands-on projects, internships, and fieldwork that foster deeper understanding, reflection, and growth. Faculty guide learners through a cycle of action, reflection, conceptualization, and experimenting.
Universal Design for Learning
Education designed for everyone. UDL creates flexible learning environments that remove barriers and embrace diversity—ensuring all students have equitable access to knowledge, engagement, and success. Faculty design multiple means of representation of course content, multiple means of thoughtfully engaging learners, and multiple means for learners to act and express their understanding.
Competency-Based Education
Progress based on mastery, not seat time. Competency-based education lets students advance by demonstrating what they know and can do—offering personalized pathways that recognize prior learning and build real-world skills. At UMPI, we offer this option in the YourPace modality.
Service Learning
Learning through service, serving through learning. Service learning integrates community engagement with academic study, empowering students to apply their skills while making meaningful contributions to society. Faculty partner with organizations to provide real-world context for their content.
Peer Learning
Students learning with and from each other. Peer learning encourages collaboration, dialogue, and shared problem-solving, helping learners deepen understanding and develop essential communication and teamwork skills. Faculty design opportunities for learners to help each other form new understandings and learn from each other.
Learner Engagement
Active learning starts with active minds. Learner engagement means sparking curiosity, motivation, and connection—inviting students to take ownership of their learning through meaningful interaction, reflection, and discovery. Faculty use cognitive, affective, behavioral, social, and agentic engagement strategies to improve student learning outcomes.