Teaching in Higher Ed

Tolu Noah, Instructional Learning Spaces Coordinator at California State University, Long Beach and author of "Designing and Facilitating Workshops with Intentionality," shares her expertise on crafting enriching learning experiences. She emphasizes the importance of clear goals and adaptability in planning. Insights on effective timing and managing participant dynamics are discussed, along with digital tools like Padlet and Session Lab that enhance engagement. Tolu also reflects on the emotional journey of embracing cultural heritage through language learning.

Leon Furze, an international consultant and PhD student, explores the implications of generative AI in education. He discusses the necessity for educators to embrace AI rather than resist it, highlighting the balance between moral stances and teaching responsibilities. Furze connects ancient mythology with modern AI discussions, emphasizing the importance of critical AI literacy. He advocates for subject matter expertise in teaching, ensuring that passionate educators weave AI into their curricula effectively. Ethical considerations and the role of wearable technology in education also feature prominently in this thought-provoking conversation.

Jackie Shay, an assistant teaching professor in ecology and marine biology at UC Santa Barbara, passionately discusses overcoming imposter syndrome through joyful curiosity. She emphasizes the need for inclusive education that values diverse intelligences and encourages personal growth. Jackie shares how emotional intelligence and a beginner's mindset can help navigate feelings of inadequacy. She highlights the importance of fostering connections in learning and the joy found in new experiences, particularly through activities like basketball.

Laura Gibbs, a former faculty member at the University of Oklahoma, shares her expertise in interactive storytelling and its application across disciplines. She discusses the impact of 100-word stories on student engagement and creativity. Gibbs reveals the power of structured narratives in teaching, emphasizing choice and consequence in storytelling. She also reflects on the integration of AI tools in education, encouraging authentic expression. With insights into using platforms like Twine, Gibbs inspires listeners to embrace storytelling as a vital component of academic work.

Mike Perkins, an associate professor focused on Gen AI policy at British University Vietnam, and Jasper Roe, an assistant professor at Durham University specializing in digital literacies, delve into ethical AI integration in education. They discuss a practical AI assessment scale designed to promote transparency and integrity while fostering open conversations about AI's role. Topics also include tackling biases, enhancing critical thinking, and the decline of AI hallucinations. Together, they advocate for a balanced approach to integrating AI in academic settings.

Tricia Bertram Gallant, an expert in academic integrity, and David Rettinger, a psychology professor specializing in students' behaviors, share insights on fostering integrity in education now that AI is prevalent. They discuss the societal pressures that lead to cheating and emphasize the importance of treating students with dignity, even when addressing mistakes. The duo advocates for innovative assessment methods that prioritize genuine understanding and encourage a supportive environment that nurtures ethical behavior among students.

Therese Huston, a cognitive neuroscientist and faculty development consultant, discusses practical strategies to enhance cognitive function. She highlights the surprising benefits of visualization in boosting productivity and the notable impact of just five minutes of meditation on memory recall. Huston also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the process over the outcome and shares how listening to emotionally resonant music can elevate dopamine levels. Her insights offer valuable tools for educators and anyone looking to keep their brains sharp.

Eileen Camfield, Interim Director at UC Merced and author of *Joy-Centered Pedagogy*, shares insights on how joy can invigorate education. She discusses the impact of pandemic trauma on student engagement and the need for compassion in responses. Eileen advocates for a balance between rigor and joy in learning, showcasing how nurturing relationships can transform traditional practices. She also emphasizes collaboration over competition in education and explores the uplifting effects of music and enjoyable literature in fostering a joyful mindset.

Jamie Moore, a passionate English professor and writer, dives into the transformative power of anger as a pathway to joyful agency. She discusses how emotional vulnerability can enhance classroom connections and challenges the conventional views on anger in education. The conversation highlights the importance of creating supportive learning environments, particularly for students of color, and shares insights on innovative practices like Student Recovery Circles. Moore emphasizes the need for authenticity, imagination, and mutual support to foster deeper ties in educational spaces.

John Warner, an accomplished author of several books on writing, dives into the intricacies of writing in our AI-driven world. He emphasizes the need to distinguish between human writing and AI-generated text, arguing that true expression should be preserved. Warner reflects on personal grief and its transformative power, while critiquing how AI can undermine personalized learning. With a focus on maintaining human connections amidst technological advancements, he champions the unique intelligence of individuals and the essential role of teachers in nurturing it.