Teaching in Higher Ed

James Lang, an author and educator known for his innovative teaching practices, shares invaluable insights on educational engagement. He reflects on his transformative journey through health challenges, emphasizing the restorative power of learning. Lang discusses the balance between traditional methods and the emergence of AI in classrooms, urging critical thinking. He also highlights the concept of 'desirable difficulties' to promote student growth, suggesting that writing is a key tool for generating ideas and personal development.

Jason Lodge, an expert in assessment reform and artificial intelligence, discusses the challenges of integrating AI into education, emphasizing the importance of capturing the human aspects of teaching. He highlights the need for a systemic approach to program assessment and engaging students with technology. Additional topics include managing large classes with a small teaching approach, AI-generated retro kids' games, and the significance of cultural diversity in enhancing productivity.

Educational expert, Alexis Peirce Caudell, discusses strategies to enhance teaching and learning by going beyond dichotomous thinking. Topics include societal categorization, teaching AI through games, fostering curiosity in learners, and creative methods in education. Recommendations for imagination, categorization, and gardening are explored, emphasizing diverse perspectives and unique learning experiences.

Ann Taylor discusses the importance of affordable open educational resources (OERs) in higher education, emphasizing the need for engaging course design and multimedia integration. She highlights the value of text-first approach, interactive learning experiences, and authentic welcome videos. The episode explores effective online course design strategies, use of Whisper Memos for capturing story ideas, recommendations for danceable songs from My Fest Event, and favorite podcasts like The Moth Radio Hour and Wiser Than Me.

Amira Barger, an expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion, discusses debunking myths around DEI, exploring mirrors and windows for representation, navigating precise language in DEI conversations, and sharing diverse recommendations for a more inclusive society.

Jon Ippolito discusses the need for a more critical framework for AI in education. He explores the impact of generative AI, challenges in implementing AI in different scenarios, and engaging students in creative tasks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of analyzing AI use, differentiating task types, and promoting values like creativity over intelligence.

Judith Dutill discusses communication literacy in the age of AI, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills in everyday situations. She explores using interviews for assessment, cultural mishaps, and staying inspired in teaching. The podcast also highlights the value of improv for communication and student engagement.

Clarissa Sorensen Unruh discusses intersectionality, power, and pedagogy in academia, highlighting systemic oppression, self-care, and the challenges faced by adjunct professors. The conversation also explores the themes of socioeconomic status in 'Wool' by Hugh Howey and the impact of Dune, as well as the ethical considerations of using AI tools for writing and research.

Leon Furze debunks the myth of the AI first draft, emphasizing the importance of the writing process over the final product. He discusses the impact of AI on education, encourages interdisciplinary learning and creativity, and explores AI resources for educators.

Bonni Stachowiak, an expert in higher education, discusses classroom observation tools and the value of curated knowledge networks. The podcast explores parallels between birdwatching and teaching, emphasizing the importance of 'just do it' and collective intelligence in bird flocks and human communities.