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Preface For many academics, teaching is both a privilege and a burden. Excellent teaching makes life- long impacts in individuals and multiplies the wealth of knowledge and connections we acquire over our lives. On the other hand, effective teaching consumes time and energy through the processes of continuous reflection and risk taking. Keeping both aspects in mind, this revised edition of the Montana State University Instructional Guide for MSU Faculty was developed with the goal of helping faculty embrace the challenge of excellent teaching. There are two major parts to this guide. The first discusses specific issues relating to teaching and learning at MSU. This includes information on our students and your administrative responsibilities as a teacher. The second part provides time-tested guidelines and advice about being an excellent teacher and creating an environment that engenders the excitement of learning. It is our hope that these materials will not provide the final word on teaching, but rather serve as a springboard for meaningful personal reflections on your goals for teaching and for discussions with your academic colleagues, administrators, and of course students. MSU's commitment to teaching and learning is evident through the many campus projects and initiatives that are currently taking place. MSU is indeed a campus focused on learning. We are pleased to contribute to MSU's efforts toward academic excellence through the resources compiled in this Guide.