James Lang, an author and educator known for his innovative teaching practices, shares invaluable insights on educational engagement. He reflects on his transformative journey through health challenges, emphasizing the restorative power of learning. Lang discusses the balance between traditional methods and the emergence of AI in classrooms, urging critical thinking. He also highlights the concept of 'desirable difficulties' to promote student growth, suggesting that writing is a key tool for generating ideas and personal development.
James Lang emphasizes the transformative power of metacognition in learning, as his recovery journey highlighted the importance of self-reflection and awareness in educational contexts.
The podcast advocates for balancing traditional teaching methods, like essay assignments, with the integration of AI in higher education to foster critical thinking and engagement.
Deep dives
Navigating Life Changes
James Lang discusses his transition from full-time teaching to a part-time role in academia after retiring early from Assumption University. This shift was not only career-related; it was also spurred by significant health challenges, including a heart condition that led to a heart transplant. The recovery journey was marked by learning to speak and write again after suffering a stroke during surgery, which added layers of complexity to his return to teaching. This experience has given him fresh insights into the nature of learning and resilience, illustrating the profound connection between personal adversity and professional development.
Metacognition in Recovery
Throughout his recovery process, Lang engaged in metacognitive practices, observing and analyzing his learning experiences as he re-acquired his speech. He found himself fascinated by the efforts of his therapists and the methods they employed, prompting him to inquire about their approaches and reasoning. This self-reflective strategy not only aided in his recovery but also enriched his understanding of the learning process in broader contexts. His reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of metacognition in education and personal growth, emphasizing that awareness of one's own learning can enhance educational outcomes.
The Role of AI in Education
Lang addresses the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on higher education and the contrasting perspectives it evokes among educators. He suggests that, while some may view AI with skepticism, it's essential to focus on the immediate work of teaching and cultivating a meaningful learning environment, rather than getting lost in philosophical debates about technology. He advocates for the importance of traditional assessments like essays, arguing that they are still valuable tools for fostering critical thinking and intellectual growth. This approach underscores the role of faculty in adapting their teaching methods to include AI where appropriate while preserving the integrity of the learning experience.
Collaborative Learning in Higher Education
The podcast highlights the value of co-teaching as a model for professional development among educators. Lang shares his experiences of collaborating with a colleague to teach a course on the art and science of learning, which has allowed them both to learn from each other and reflect on their teaching practices in real-time. This partnership not only enhances their effectiveness but also enriches the learning experience for students, as they benefit from diverse instructional styles. Emphasizing the collaborative nature of teaching, Lang illustrates that working together can energize educators and contribute to a more dynamic classroom environment.
James Lang reads his piece, Working the Gardens of Our Classrooms, on episode 529 of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast.
Quotes from the episode
He quits worrying about whether Pangloss or Martin are correct, decides that he and his companions should turn their attention to the immediate work demanded by their current circumstances.
-James Lang
Writing is, number 1, a form of thinking, number 2, that produces learning, and 3, generates new ideas. That was true in 2000, and it’s true in 2024.
-James Lang
In the meantime, the gardens need tending. If you continue to believe in the value of the plants that have always flourished in your garden, keep growing them.
-James Lang