Beth McMurtrie

Beth McMurtry, a Senior Writer at the Chronicle of Higher Education, delves into the concerning decline of reading engagement among college students. She discusses how technology and social media contribute to this trend, creating challenges for educators. The podcast explores the cognitive and emotional benefits of traditional reading versus digital consumption and emphasizes the need to foster a love for literature despite distractions. McMurtry also highlights the importance of effective support for children's literacy development, connecting it to broader educational challenges.

Beth McMurtrie is a senior writer for The Chronicle of Higher Education, known for her insights into education trends. In their discussion, they dive into why Gen Z students struggle with reading endurance and motivation, exacerbated by distractions from social media. Professors express frustration over students' waning engagement with complex texts. The conversation also touches on the pressures of modern education, exploring the need for innovative teaching methods to reconnect students with reading and critical thinking.

Beth McMurtrie, a senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education, delves into Harvard's striking grade inflation trend, revealing that A's accounted for 60% of all grades in 2025, a dramatic rise from 2005. She discusses how Harvard's influence on grading practices affects perceptions of higher education nationwide. The conversation touches on faculty pressures, student advocacy, and how the pandemic has shifted grading dynamics, sparking a debate on whether education should prioritize mastery or traditional evaluations.

Beth McMurtrie, a Senior Writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education, dives into the alarming rise of academic dishonesty fueled by AI tools like ChatGPT. She discusses how many students view cheating as a harmless shortcut and the growing concerns among professors about the long-term impact of this mindset. With insights into the challenges of enforcing integrity in a shifting educational landscape, McMurtrie emphasizes the urgent need for institutions to foster a culture of honesty and critical thinking.

Guests on this episode discuss the impact of chatbots and AI on higher education, covering topics such as personalized education, disinformation, cheating, and the importance of critical thinking. They explore regulating AI in assignments, the potential loss of critical thinking skills, and the need for AI literacy in students.