A program designed to improve learning through improved teaching competencies, the IOTAH program (Instrument for the Observation of Teaching Activities in Higher Education) is reported. This program for instructional improvement involves three stages: introduction, training, and implementation. The introductory stage can be accomplished through either a special orientation program or a pilot workshop. Participation in an actual IOTAH workshop is an intensive training activity of approximately 27 contact hours designed to develop: an understanding of an acceptable definition of teaching competence, objective observation skills, and skills in data recording and application of the instrument. Workshops also include objectivity training, role playing, interview training, videotape self-analysis, and library study. Implementation of the program at an institution is aided by program staff who are experienced at adapting the program to the needs of the organization. Implementation can be either formal or informal; the programmed approach is recommended. The IOTAH program is based on a national criterion of teaching competence called "The Role of the Instructor in Higher Education," which identifies seven major areas of responsibility of the professional instructor. The criterion uses behavioral terminology in describing teaching performance: 100 behavioral activities categorized by 22 items or scales. There are two types of scales, observation and interview, and data from classroom observation and the interview enable the trained observer and interviewer to assess teaching competence. (SW)