The professional development of university faculty is a critical aspect of ensuring the quality of teaching, research, and contribution to the academic community (Biggs, 2005). Most universities offer pedagogical training programs to ensure that higher education responds effectively to the needs of students and society, as well as to improve the quality of teaching and contribute to the formation of individuals capable of facing learning challenges in an autonomous and reflective manner (Boud & Hager, 2012).
In this context, the Institute of Educational Sciences (ICE) of the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) has been developing the Expert Diploma in University Pedagogy (DEXPU) for more than two decades, in which more than 600 teachers from different areas of knowledge have participated throughout its editions. Its aim is to develop the necessary competencies to implement quality teaching, where the students and their education are at the center, using various strategies and training tools to face contemporary educational challenges(Paricio, J.; Fernández A.; Fernández I.; 2019).
The program focuses its attention on the professional experience of each teacher, on their analysis and evaluation, in order to later confront them with others and thus obtain ideas and sensations that can serve as a model for the general public (Paricio, J.; Fernández A.; Fernández I.; 2019). This approach highlights the uniqueness of each participant's experience, resulting in personalized learning objectives, where support from peers, tutors, and trainers is crucial (Zeichner & Liston, 2013).
The importance of this training is undeniable in the current educational context. As universities face changing challenges and diversity in their communities, the faculty's ability to provide quality education has become more critical than ever. Constant technological evolution, the demands of a diverse student group, and varying expectations for higher education quality underscore the importance of faculty acquiring and refining solid pedagogical skills.
Facilitating professional development not only benefits the teacher, but also has a direct impact on the student learning experience (Pintrich, 2004). Pedagogically well-prepared teachers are better able to adapt to different learning styles, encourage active participation in the learning process, and develop the ability to adapt to the needs of students (Pintrich, 2004). Teachers who are better prepared pedagogically are better able to adapt to diverse learning styles, encourage active participation and provide meaningful feedback.
Furthermore, the competence of "learning to learn" becomes central in this context, referring to a person's ability to acquire, process, organise and apply knowledge effectively and autonomously (Yániz; Villardón-Gallego, 2015). This competence is essential in an ever-changing educational and professional environment. Thus, faculty, by developing pedagogical skills, empower students to become independent and adaptable learners (Deakin; Stringher; and Ren, 2014), preparing them to face changing challenges in their future careers (Panadero, 2017).
Therefore, our research question focuses on how the professional development of university faculty influences their ability to effectively promote the acquisition of the "Learning to Learn" Competence (AaA) among their students.
In this paper, we present the results of the self-assessment guide, developed by our research team and carried out by the participants of the last edition of the DEXPU. The self-assessment guide focuses on the analysis of their teaching task, evaluating key aspects influencing their professional work. It is a personal tool that facilitates faculty reflection on their teaching performance and encourages self-management of adjustments and/or changes they deem appropriate. The guide consists of eight dimensions defining a good teacher according to research standards (Paricio, J.; Fernández A.; Fernández I.; 2019).