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Graduate Reading Group

The Graduate Reading Group group meets for lunch three times over the course of the semester to discuss a book on teaching.

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About the Graduate Reading Group

Each semester, the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning sponsors a Graduate Reading Group. The group meets three to four times over the course of the semester to discuss the chosen book. We'll provide the book and the lunch; you come with thoughts and questions.

Please note: CETL reading groups exist to foster dialogue among UM instructors about important issues in higher education teaching and learning. The views expressed in the selected books are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily represent the views of CETL staff.

Spring 2026

This semester, the Graduate Reading Group will tackle the book The Spark of Learning: Energizing the College Classroom with the Science of Emotion, by Sarah Rose Cavanagh. Registered graduate students will receive a paperback copy of the book. Join us to learn more about college teaching and connect with fellow graduate TAs, instructors, and aspiring educators. 

The Spring 2025 Graduate Reading Group will meet at Hill Hall 117 on the following Fridays from 12:00-1:00 pm:

  • February 20
  • March 20
  • April 10

Pizza will be provided for lunch.

Join the Graduate Reading Group

Use the form below to reserve your spot in the Spring 2026 reading group. Register by Friday, January 23.
Register here
Cover of The Spark of Learning, with a lit match against a white background

Learn more about the Spring 2026 title

In The Spark of Learning, Sarah Rose Cavanagh makes a compelling, researched-based argument for why we should consider, and harness, the power of emotions in our classrooms. Drawing from the field of affective science, she describes the role that emotions play in learning. She then shares practical strategies for connecting with and motivating students, encouraging persistence, and dealing with challenging emotions in the classroom.

Register for the Spring 2026 reading group using the link above.

Past Reading Group Selections