What is Teaching Educational Psychology?  A group of committed professors, authors, researchers, scientists, teachers, students, instructors, technologists, and administrators who are passionate about how people learn, think, are motivated in diverse contexts; how best to teach, motivate and effect learning; and the effectiveness of educational interventions and innovations.
This group of dedicated professionals has been influential in my own professional development.  It wasn’t until I was trying to return to the academic world after taking a leave to raise children (yes, I homeschooled!) that I discovered this SIG that I now call ‘home’ within AERA.  
AERA can be very overwhelming to a first timer or a grad student, or even a seasoned veteran.  There are literally thousands of opportunities available during the Annual Meeting, with little time to plan or logistically take in.  TEP allows you to focus on the topics that can impact your professional interests, theoretical knowledge, and pedagogical skills. 
TEP offers many resources to those who teach and research teaching and learning including a fabulous Wiki that includes everything from lesson plans and ideas, to assessments, projects, and databases.  The TEP Journal is a wonderful platform to read about cutting edge innovation as well as provide opportunities to publish.   TEP even has a Facebook page that works to encourage discussion and communication among those interested in teaching educational psychology.   The camaraderie within TEP is one that supports the life cycle of the career professional from Baby Doc through retirement.
This year TEP sponsored the first Travel Award Stipend to a graduate student who either authored or co-authored a paper presentation.  Please encourage graduate students to submit and apply for this award next winter 2014.  
Welcome to Teaching Educational Psychology!  TEP is only as strong as our participation and contributions!  


Cynthia Bolton-Gary
TEP SIG Chair 2013-2014