Teaching in Higher Ed

Emily Pitts Donahoe, an expert in alternative grading and progressive teaching, discusses the transformative 'Grading for Growth' framework. She identifies four essential pillars: marks indicating progress, reattempts without penalties, clear standards, and actionable feedback. With insights from Bonni's daughter, they explore how traditional grades fail to communicate true student progress, emphasizing the need for a grading system that prioritizes learning over mere performance. Emily's reflections urge educators to rethink their approaches for better student engagement.

M. C. Flux, an innovative instructor at the University of Colorado Boulder with a dual PhD in neuroscience and clinical psychology, discusses his approach to educational video creation. He emphasizes the importance of layering content to maintain student engagement, especially in a world of shorter attention spans. M. C. highlights blending storytelling with science and the benefits of using interactive elements like quizzes. He also shares insights on video formats and the value of authenticity, encouraging educators to embrace imperfections in their content.

Seth Offenbach, an associate professor at Bronx Community College and author, discusses the importance of kindness in online asynchronous classrooms. He emphasizes creating a safe space for students, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Offenbach highlights evolving teaching methods that prioritize empathy while maintaining academic rigor. He advocates for flexible deadlines, noting that understanding students’ realities fosters success. The conversation also touches on thoughtful syllabus design and promoting meaningful engagement in virtual learning.

Bryan Dewsbury, an Associate Professor of Biology at Florida International University, discusses the importance of socially just teaching across disciplines. He emphasizes building trust and rapport with students while providing timely feedback. Dewsbury advocates for innovative assessment strategies that foster engagement and address equity in education. He also navigates the challenges posed by AI in the classroom, promoting a supportive environment. Plus, he shares insights about the cultural impact of shows like 'We Are Lady Parts' and 'Abbott Elementary'.

Danny Liu, a Professor of educational technologies at the University of Sydney, dives deep into the intertwining of AI and assessment in education. He discusses how educators can guide students to make informed choices in a landscape awash with AI tools. Liu advocates for a shift towards compassionate assessments that foster trust and student agency, rather than strict regulations. He highlights the need for innovative, diverse assessment strategies that embrace creativity and independent thought, transforming the educational experience for both students and teachers.

James Lang, an author and educator at the University of Notre Dame, discusses his latest book, focusing on how teachers can effectively translate their classroom experience into writing. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity-driven questions in both learning and writing. Lang also delves into the benefits of using AI tools as writing companions, while stressing the value of human connection in education. He references notable works like 'The Greek Way' and explores how attention and reading shape our cultural landscape.

Adriana Aldana, an associate professor at California State University, focuses on youth empowerment and multicultural organizing. She discusses Counterstory Pedagogy, emphasizing the power of alternative narratives to combat systemic inequalities. The conversation highlights how reflective letter writing can amplify marginalized voices and foster emotional connections in learning. Aldana also explores the role of self-care in social work education and shares practical strategies for embracing change and uncertainty, all while nurturing resilience and creativity in students.

Alexandra (Ana) Kogl, a political science professor at the University of Northern Iowa, delves into the intersection of joy and justice in education. She shares her journey of discovering joy in the classroom, countering the notion that learning must be a joyless experience. Kogl discusses innovative teaching methods that engage emotional authenticity, the societal pressures around masculinity and emotional numbness, and the vital role of compassion in fostering meaningful student interactions. Ultimately, she emphasizes the power of joy-centered pedagogy in creating transformative learning environments.

Leslie Bayers, Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Pacific, champions equity in education and faculty support. She reveals the importance of body literacy in learning, arguing that we learn better when we move. Bayers shares insights on how our physical environment influences student engagement and the cognitive process. She encourages incorporating movement into teaching to enhance learning experiences and advocates for flexible classrooms that foster connection and engagement.

In this engaging discussion, Jennifer Baumgartner, a Professor of early childhood education and an Inquiry Education Fellow at the Fred Rogers Institute, shares her insights on Mr. Rogers' teachings. She highlights the importance of love, slow living, and addressing difficult topics with children as foundational elements in education. Baumgartner emphasizes that anything mentionable is manageable, urging educators to create environments of trust and curiosity. The conversation reveals how Mr. Rogers' legacy can profoundly shape both childhood learning and higher education.