What keeps educators inspired in today’s complex academic landscape? For Dr. Pamela Felder-Small, the answer lies in joy — a guiding philosophy that shapes how we teach, how students learn, and how meaningful connections are made in the classroom.
Dr. Felder-Small’s proposal, “The Joy of Teaching and Fostering Success in Higher Education,” has been accepted for presentation at the 2026 Innovative Teaching & Learning Conference (ITLC) on March 26. Her session explores how joy can transform teaching and learning, turning classrooms into spaces where both educators and students thrive.
A Note from Dr. Pamela Felder-Small:
“In the context of higher education today, joy is far more than a fleeting emotion; it is a foundational philosophy and an active practice. It emphasizes the importance of every individual [both educator and learner] identifying what fulfillment looks like for them and intentionally bringing that vibrant energy into our teaching, learning, and professional collaborations.
Joy is not a destination we reach, but a practice that grows through consistent reflection on ourselves and our work. When we pause to examine the “why” behind our teaching practices, we unlock a deeper connection to our purpose. By centering joy, we transform the online classroom from a space of mere information exchange into a site of genuine human connection. This approach recognizes that when we show up with joyful energy, we create a ripple effect that fosters success, resilience, and curiosity. In an increasingly complex academic landscape, choosing joy is a radical act of sustainability. It allows us to honor our individual voices while building a collective environment where both students and faculty can thrive, innovate, and find meaning in the shared pursuit of knowledge.”
Conference Details
Dr. Felder-Small’s session will take place virtually at the 2026 Innovative Teaching & Learning Conference (ITLC):
Date: March 26, 2026
Registration: https://teaching.utk.edu/2026-itlc-conference-registration/ (Free — registration closes March 22)
