5. The Future of Educational Technology: A Conversation with Derek Bruff

In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Derek Bruff discusses the integration of technology in higher education, emphasizing the importance of aligning teaching goals with technology use. He shares insights on supporting faculty in adopting new technologies, balancing innovation with traditional educational values, and the role of AI in teaching. Dr. Bruff also highlights the significance of creating learning communities and effective faculty development programs to enhance teaching and learning experiences. In this conversation, Derek Bruff and Gregor Thuswaldner discuss the importance of providing faculty with the time and expertise needed to effectively integrate technology into their teaching. They explore successful programs that pair faculty with graduate or undergraduate students to enhance learning experiences. The discussion also highlights the role of provosts in fostering a culture of continuous learning and evaluating technology integration success. They address future trends in educational technology, emphasizing the need for equity and access, and the impact of community on learning. Takeaways • Teaching and learning goals should drive technology use. • Lead with the why when integrating technology. • Don't undervalue the expertise of your own faculty. • Innovation in education is essential but challenging. • Learning is fundamentally a social experience.