Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL): Origin, route, and destination

Letter to the Editor The idea of Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) or educational scholarship, is a complex and interconnected concept that needs more exploration and understanding. Imagine educational scholarship as a river that should flow continuously; this river has its origin, route, and destination. The similarity is that if their movement and continuity are interrupted, which can lead to turmoil, this is not surprising. To understand the process conditions and success factors, knowing about the beginning and end of the path is necessary. Details of this pathway are provided. SoTL involves meeting specific requirements at individual and activity levels. Therefore, it requires prerequisites and agreements. Evidence indicates that this concept needs more explanation and attention, especially in Iran. Educational scholarship brings individual, institutional, and professional benefits. However, one major challenge it encounters, especially in the field of educational research, is the mistaken belief that the two concepts are similar, despite certain similarities. Here, we will explore the fundamental characteristics of SoTL, namely those that distinguish it from educational research, with the intention of providing guidance to those who work in this field.