Teaching in Higher Ed

Karen Costa, a faculty development facilitator and author of "An Educator’s Guide to ADHD," discusses reshaping views on ADHD in education. She emphasizes that students with ADHD are assets, not burdens, and critiques the problematic romanticization of ADHD as a superpower. Karen shares methods for creating supportive learning environments, like high expectations paired with flexibility, and highlights the importance of strong instructor presence in online settings. She also offers practical tools like checklists and external memory aids to aid students' success.

In a thought-provoking conversation, José Bowen, a former college president and author, dives into the complexities of integrating AI in education. He emphasizes the need for educators to adapt to this new landscape, shifting from delivering content to mentoring students. Bowen also addresses critical issues like AI's potential for bias and privacy concerns, warning of the risks that come with using AI as a mining tool. Ultimately, he outlines a future of education where low-cost AI degrees and personalized learning coexist.

Bryan Alexander, a renowned futurist and author known for his insights on higher education, dives into the transformative impact of AI on academia. He discusses the delicate balance between the potential of AI, likening it to a child needing guidance, and its economic risks, warning of possible bubbles. Alexander also addresses the need for adaptive teaching practices in light of AI's omnipresence among students. With a mix of utopian and dystopian perspectives, he encourages educators to rethink assessment and pedagogy for a rapidly evolving landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Matthew Mahavongtrakul, the Program Director of Faculty Educational Development at UC Irvine, shares insights on active learning strategies. He highlights the importance of making small, manageable changes to engage all students, even in large classes. Topics include the balance between structured course design and adaptability, innovative classroom activities like a snowball fight, and addressing common faculty concerns such as content coverage. Matthew also presents a token system aimed at promoting equitable student engagement and reducing resistance to active participation.

C. Edward Watson, Vice President for Digital Innovation at the American Association of Colleges and Universities, discusses the rapid transformation of AI in higher education. He highlights the shift from banning AI to integrating it into curricula and addresses concerns about academic integrity. Watson emphasizes the importance of balancing AI skills with traditional learning outcomes and shares his method of developing ideas before incorporating AI. He also predicts that institutions must adapt their curricula to meet the evolving demands of the workforce.

Christopher Ostro, a higher education instructor and AI advocate, delves into the emotional landscape shaped by AI in academia. He discusses the profound grief experienced by faculty due to rapid job changes and ineffective traditional assessments. Christopher highlights the importance of fostering trust with students and embracing co-learning. He shares insights from surveys about AI's prevalence and the need for specific training. The conversation also covers the reimagining of classroom dynamics and ethical discussions surrounding AI use.

Dave Stachowiak, a frequent collaborator, joins to delve into six key pedagogical practices informed by 600 discussions. They emphasize starting small to foster engagement and building courses around curiosity instead of mere content coverage. The importance of prioritizing presence over perfection is highlighted, along with cultivating meaningful relationships in the classroom. Stachowiak also discusses understanding one's scope of practice and focusing on personal growth. It's a reflective journey brimming with practical teaching insights.

David Gooblar, an Associate Professor of English and author of *One Classroom at a Time*, dives deep into how better teaching can enhance equity in college. He discusses the hidden 'scars' students carry, stressing the importance of understanding their unique challenges. Gooblar critiques the stereotype of the 'privileged college student', advocating for teaching practices that foster trust and inclusion. He shares innovative strategies like 'question roll' for building classroom belonging and emphasizes the need for individualized support over assumptions.

Jeff Young, host of the Learning Curve podcast and education reporter, shares insights on AI's transformative role in higher education. He discusses the varied student perspectives on AI, highlighting its dual role as a learning aid and a source of instant gratification that could undermine attention spans. Young also delves into the risks of using AI as a social substitute and the growing concerns around its impact on job markets and journalism. Ultimately, he underscores the irreplaceable value of human connection in education and life.

Discover the fun behind the card game Go Somewhere, designed for playful discussions about serious topics. Bonni Stachowiak emphasizes using metaphors to explore the impact of AI on education and personal identity. The game encourages creativity and collaboration through a Pictionary-style round, allowing teams to express their interpretations of AI. Reflect on values and actionable steps in the final round, ensuring that learning and growth continue beyond the game. Tune in for valuable insights and resources on navigating AI in educational spaces.