Social Learning Amplified hosted by Eric Mazur

In this episode of Social Learning Amplified, host Eric Mazur is joined by Marc Watkins—educator, academic innovator, and director of the AI Institute for Teachers of Writing at the University of Mississippi. Together, they discuss how generative AI is reshaping reading, writing, and student-teacher relationships. From introducing “friction” into the reading process to encouraging ethical, reflective use of AI tools, Marc offers a grounded, human-centered perspective on navigating this rapidly evolving landscape. Tune in for a conversation about the future of learning, critical thinking, and the role of relationships in education.Marc Watkins is also a Perusall Exchange® 2025 presenter! Register for free

In this engaging discussion, David Joyner, executive director of online education at Georgia Tech and author of A Teacher’s Guide to Conversational AI, explores the impact of generative AI on education. They delve into transforming teaching practices and assessments to harness AI's potential. David shares key strategies for enhancing student engagement while addressing academic integrity. Listeners also get a sneak peek into a future interactive event, reinforcing the importance of collaborative learning in the age of AI.

In this episode of the Social Learning Amplified podcast, host Eric Mazur engages with authors Tricia Bertram Gallant and David Rettinger to explore the concept of cheating in education, its implications, and the evolving landscape of academic integrity in the age of generative AI. They discuss the importance of redefining cheating as a lack of learning, the reasons behind student cheating, and the role of assessment in fostering or deterring academic misconduct. The conversation also highlights practical strategies for educators to promote integrity and adapt to the challenges posed by AI technologies.Participate in their author-led, interactive reading event -- only on Perusall! Join at perusall.com/engage.

Ron Ritchhart, a renowned educator and researcher known for his work on 'cultures of thinking,' joins to share insights on transforming classroom engagement. He discusses the importance of prioritizing visible thinking to enhance student learning experiences. Ritchhart delves into how artificial intelligence can reshape teaching methods and promote critical thinking. He offers practical strategies for making student thought processes visible, emphasizing inquiry-based approaches that stimulate deeper discussion and collaborative learning, enriching overall educational outcomes.

Josh Eyler, director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at the University of Mississippi, discusses the harmful impact of traditional grading on student engagement. He critiques existing grading systems for promoting extrinsic motivation and highlights the need for alternative models that focus on intrinsic learning. Eyler emphasizes the complexities of objective assessments and advocates for innovative alternatives that prioritize student growth. Concluding with a vision for a gradeless future, he encourages educators to embrace change and foster a supportive learning environment.

José Antonio Bowen, an award-winning professor and author, teams up with C. Edward Watson, a leader in curricular innovation, to delve into teaching with AI. They explore actionable strategies for integrating AI in education while maintaining essential human connections. The duo discusses innovative teaching methods tailored to evolving job markets and emphasizes the need for ethical considerations in AI use. They also highlight how AI can promote equity among diverse learners and the importance of preparing students for a tech-driven future.

In this engaging discussion, Tristan Cui, an award-winning educational designer, and Jeff Wang, an Associate Professor of Marketing at Monash University, share insights on enhancing student engagement through social annotation tools. They delve into their research on Perusall, detailing its implementation in courses and the positive effects on students, particularly those with lower English proficiency. The conversation highlights overcoming classroom challenges and integrating social annotations into assessments, offering valuable strategies for future educational practices.

In this engaging discussion, Sharon Lauricella, a teaching scholar focused on communication, teams up with T. Keith Edmunds, an assistant professor with a diverse academic background. They delve into the concept of Ludic Pedagogy, revealing how integrating fun into the classroom transforms learning experiences. Listeners will discover the four pillars of this approach, including the use of play as a tool for engagement and creativity. Personal anecdotes, like the innovative paper crane exercise, enrich their argument that enjoyment enhances learning outcomes.

Dr. Michelle Miller, a cognitive psychologist and professor at Northern Arizona University, dives into the fascinating interplay between memory and technology. She discusses how memory isn't just about recording information but actively constructing knowledge. The conversation reveals technology’s dual role in influencing memory, especially in aging populations. Miller emphasizes the need for a balance between teaching content and critical thinking skills in education. Plus, she introduces an exciting reading event for her book, inviting educators to engage in communal learning.

Dr. Jenae Cohn, Executive Dean at UC Berkeley’s Center for Teaching and Learning and author of 'Design for Learning,' dives into the importance of user experience in educational design. She emphasizes creating engaging online courses by understanding student needs and goals. Cohn explores innovative learning spaces and how pandemic lessons can reshape traditional education. The conversation also tackles fostering intrinsic motivation online, highlighting the need for feedback and student autonomy to enhance engagement.