Speaking of Higher Ed: Conversations on Teaching and Learning

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Speaking of Higher Ed exists to create a resource that will inspire and assist faculty in creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences. We provide higher ed faculty with a platform for sharing research related to the scholarship of teaching and learning, spark new instructional ideas, and promote interdisciplinary instructional methods. This podcast is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University.

CII Augusta University


    • Apr 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 33m AVG DURATION
    • 29 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Speaking of Higher Ed: Conversations on Teaching and Learning

    28. Teaching, Cheating, and Writing for the Public: A Conversation with James Lang

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 64:02


    In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, we welcome acclaimed author and teaching expert Dr. James Lang to explore one of the most pressing topics in higher education today: academic integrity in the age of generative AI. Drawing from his influential book Cheating Lessons, Lang shares practical, research-based strategies for designing learning environments that reduce cheating and enhance student motivation. At the heart of the discussion is the argument that academic dishonesty often arises not from “bad” students, but from the pressures and pitfalls of ineffective course design. Lang outlines key environmental factors—such as extrinsic motivation, high-stakes assessments, and low self-efficacy—that contribute to cheating, and offers concrete ways faculty can design courses that support learning while discouraging misconduct. He also reflects on how generative AI has intensified these challenges, and how faculty can respond with next-generation assessments that promote metacognition and student voice. Later in the conversation, Lang turns to his newest book, Write Like You Teach, which encourages faculty to bring the clarity and accessibility of their classroom teaching into their writing. He shares advice on how academics can communicate their work to broader audiences and engage the public in meaningful ways. Whether you're a new instructor or a seasoned professor, this episode blends theory and actionable insights for both your teaching and your writing life. Get free access to more of our content, visit our show page for full episodes and additional resources. 

    27. AI in Higher Education with Dr. Cynthia Alby

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 35:04


    Generative AI is rapidly changing the landscape of higher education, offering new possibilities for student engagement, personalized learning, and course design. In this episode, Dr. Cynthia Alby, professor of teacher education at Georgia College and lead instructor in the Governor's Teaching Fellows Program, shares how faculty across the country are integrating AI into their teaching. She discusses practical applications, from AI-assisted feedback to generative textbooks, as well as the challenges faculty face when incorporating AI into their courses. Dr. Alby also explores the ethical considerations of AI use, student concerns about fairness and job prospects, and strategies for fostering academic integrity in an AI-driven world. Whether you're already experimenting with AI or just starting to explore its potential, this conversation offers valuable insights and concrete strategies for leveraging AI to enhance teaching and learning. 

    26. Animating the Future: Education, Creativity, and AI w/ A.B. Osborne

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2025 27:06


    How do you prepare students to enter a rapidly changing industry like animation? What impact does AI have on such a competitive industry?On this episode, we're exploring animation education with our guest, A.B. Osborne. We discuss the development of Augusta University's animation program, how students balance creativity with technical skills, and the impact of AI on the animation industry—and what it means for animation students. Professor Osborne is an associate professor Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences in the Department of Art and Design and the director of Augusta University's Animation Program which he helped launch in 2019. Get free access to more of our content, visit ourshow page for full episodes and additional resources. 

    25. Undergraduate research with Drs. Michael Rifenburg and Kristine Johnson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 38:19


    What is the lifelong influence of undergraduate research experiences?  For this month's topic of undergraduate research, Drs. Michael Rifenburg and Kristine Johnson discuss their book A Long View of Undergraduate Research: Alumni Perspectives on Inquiry, Belonging, and Vocation. They discuss insights into undergraduate research learned by interviewing alumni about the effect that participating in UR played in their lives after graduation. The authors discuss the balance between intellectual growth and career readiness that UR can provide as well as the importance of the faculty role for students. Finally, they provide practical advice for faculty just starting or expanding undergraduate research.   Dr. Michael Rifenburg is an associate professor of English at the University of North Georgia, serves as co-director of First-Year Composition and is a Senior Faculty Fellow for Scholarly Writing within UNG's Center for Teaching, Learning, and Leadership.   Dr. Kristine Johnson is an Associate Professor at Calvin University in Michigan. She currently serves as the University Rhetoric Director, directing first-year writing, Rhetoric Across the Curriculum, and the Rhetoric Center.  Get free access to more of our content, visit our show page for full episodes and additional resources. 

    24. Level Up: Gamification and Game Based Learning in Higher Ed

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 38:54


    “Have you ever wondered if the principles of gaming could transform how your students learn?” In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, we explore gamification and game-based learning in higher education with Jeff Mastromonico and Arthur Takahashi. You'll hear about the differences between these approaches, how they can boost student engagement, and practical examples like escape rooms and simulations. Discover how you can incorporate gamified elements into your courses, align them with your teaching objectives, and create more engaging learning experiences across any discipline.  Get free access to more of our content, visit our show page for full episodes and additional resources. 

    23. Feel, Think, Learn: Insights from social-affective neuroscience w/ Dr. Immordino-Yang

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2024 64:53


    “There is no learning without emotion.” This bold statement, likely familiar to many educators, is at the center of Dr. Mary Helen Immordino-Yang's research. In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, we speak with Dr. Immordino-Yang, a renowned professor of education, psychology and neuroscience at the University of Southern California. We explore why emotions are essential to learning from a neurobiological perspective, how we can use this knowledge to help our students learn meaningfully, and what this insight means for our approach to education. Get free access to more of our content, visit our show page for full episodes and additional resources.

    22. Dr. Richard E. Mayer: Insights on Revised Bloom's Taxonomy and Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2024 56:01


    “How can you teach people in ways so that they can take what they've learned and use it in new situations?” This question has been the driving force behind Dr. Richard E. Mayer's work for over 40 years. In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, we talk with Dr. Mayer, the world's most cited educational psychologist, about two of his most significant contributions to education: his involvement in revising Benjamin Bloom's original taxonomy of educational objectives and his lifelong work in multimedia learning.   First, we explore his role in creating the Revised Bloom's Taxonomy. Dr. Mayer explains why the revised taxonomy is not yet a cumulative hierarchy, challenging the widespread misconception and cautioning us against the use of the pyramid visual. Instead, he explains which of the six categories of the Revised Bloom's Taxonomy we should focus on when designing instruction.   In the second part of the interview, Dr. Mayer discusses his groundbreaking work in multimedia learning, including his famous Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. He shares how his research can help us design better instruction. Dr. Mayer also discusses the future of his research.  Get free access to more of our content, visit augusta.edu/innovation for full episodes and additional resources. 

    21. Student Engagement Strategies with Gary T. Green, EdD

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2024 41:09


    What happens when a professor throws paper balls and playlists into the mix to get students engaged? In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, Gary Green, EdD from the University of Georgia shares how he uses unconventional, yet effective, strategies to capture student attention and keep them involved. Dr. Green explains his approach to fostering a classroom environment that encourages active participation. He shares specific techniques such as using paper ball activities, personalized music playlists, and creative tools like "Learn-dle" to make learning more engaging.  Dr. Green also emphasizes the importance of getting to know students on a personal level, integrating their interests into course materials, and maintaining open communication. By offering his phone number and responding quickly to student inquiries, he builds rapport and breaks down barriers between instructor and student.  Additionally, Dr. Green highlights the role of feedback in shaping his teaching, conducting regular check-ins to assess student understanding, and adjusting his approach accordingly. He also touches on the use of group activities, creative exam reviews, and offering flexibility to students who may need extra support.  We discuss actionable strategies for educators looking to enhance student engagement in their classrooms, whether in large lectures or smaller classes.  Get free access to more of our content, visit augusta.edu/innovation for full episodes and additional resources.

    20. Innovating experiential learning and community partnerships w/ Lynsey Steinberg

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2024 26:32


    Discover how real-world experiences shape student success in our conversation with Lynsey Steinberg, Director of Innovation at the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center. She offers practical tips for faculty on creating impactful community partnerships and interdisciplinary projects, while also sharing the growth journey of the Innovate Competition from 20 students to over 300 participants.  Get free access to more of our content, visit augusta.edu/innovation for full episodes and additional resources.  

    19. Summer Shorts: AI, Ungrading, and Starting the Semester Strong

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 10:04


    In this special summer shorts episode, we revisit conversations from the past year to help you gear up for the upcoming semester. Join us as we explore practical strategies and innovative approaches shared by our expert guests.  From episode 13, JoAnn Edmond and Jenn Rose kick things off by emphasizing the importance of a learner-centered syllabus. "Creating tools like a syllabus, which can serve as a blueprint for your course, is crucial," they explain. By utilizing templates and resources from the Center for Instructional Innovation, faculty can design syllabi that not only guide course structure but also foster a community-focused learning environment. This approach, they argue, can directly support institutional goals like improving student retention.  We explore the concept of Ungrading from episode 17 with Drs. Candis Bond and Trent Kays. They describe Ungrading as an "assessment and evaluation approach that favors process over traditional grading," focusing on formative assessment and continuous feedback. By shifting away from the conventional A-F scale, this method aims to enhance intrinsic motivation and promote a deeper engagement with the learning process. "It's a mindset, a philosophy," they assert, encouraging educators to create environments where students can focus on learning rather than merely aiming for a grade.  Finally, from episode 15, Dr. David Joyner discusses the transformative potential of AI in education. He highlights the need to adapt assessments to maintain their effectiveness in the face of new AI tools like ChatGPT. He advises, "We must make certain changes to keep our assessments reliable and effective demonstrations of student understanding." Dr. Joyner also sees AI as a means to elevate educational outcomes, enabling students to tackle more ambitious projects and achieve deeper understanding. His insights are complemented by his publication "A Teacher's Guide to Conversational AI" and a professional certificate program available on edX.  Explore these ideas and more, visit augusta.edu/innovation for full episodes and additional resources. 

    18. Summer Shorts: Hip-Hop, Grades and Good Teaching

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 8:02


    On this Summer Shorts episode, we highlight transformative approaches in teaching and learning, including hip-hop pedagogy, documenting effective teaching, and innovative grading practices.  In episode nine, Dr. Lauren Barbeau from Georgia Tech discusses her publication on the Critical Teaching Behaviors framework, which provides a comprehensive system to identify and discuss good teaching, offering a common language across disciplines. In episode eleven, we talk with Dr. Dan Kaminstein of the Medical College of Georgia, who challenges traditional grading systems and advocates for alternative assessment strategies that promote continuous learning and student engagement. Finally, in episode sixteen, we explore the world of hip-hop pedagogy with Dr. Kelly Allen from Augusta University, who demonstrates how integrating hip-hop culture into education can boost student motivation and academic success.  Subscribe and stay connected for new episodes every third Wednesday of the month during spring and fall semesters. 

    17. Ungrading with Drs. Candis Bond and Trent Kays

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2024 55:33


    Have you ever felt that traditional grading methods fail to accurately measure student learning?   In this episode, we explore an innovative approach called "ungrading" that challenges the traditional grading system. Drs. Bond and Kays discuss how ungrading does not mean no grades. It means a shift in focus from grades to student autonomy and learning.  Ungrading can also help you highlight how mistakes, continuous feedback and revisions are crucial to your students' learning process. We also explore how this approach can promote equity, increase student motivation and ultimately impact learning.  On this episode, Candis Bond, PhD, Director of the Center for Writing Excellence at Augusta University and Associate Professor of English, and Trent Kays, PhD, Director of College Composition and Assistant Professor of English, share their experiences ungrading their courses.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    16. Hip-Hop Pedagogy with Kelly Allen, PhD

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 44:16


    What is Hip-Hop pedagogy? How can the use of Hip-Hop culture in curriculum engage students and create relevant connections to course content? Kelly R. Allen, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Curriculum Studies in the College of Education and Human Development Department of Research, Counseling, and Curriculum at Augusta University and advocate for the implementation of Hip-Hop based education. During Allen's early years as a high school social studies teacher, she discovered the power of using Hip-Hop culture in her teaching. Seeing that it was “more than a hook”, but instead something to be infused in all aspects of her courses. Hip-hop culture has since been an integral part of her research and teaching.  Dr. Allen discusses the 5 aspects of Hip-Hop culture, describing how and why they allow students to engage, feel empowered and find relevance in course content. She discusses the past and current perceptions of Hip-Hop pedagogy in academia and how she sees it moving forward in the higher education space.  Dr. Allen concludes with tips and advice for practitioners on how to incorporate Hip-Hop pedagogy into their teaching.  If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Allen and her work, you can connect with her X (formerly Twitter).  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    15. AI in Higher Ed with David Joyner, PhD

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2024 47:16


    Should I discuss AI with my students? How can I benefit from using AI?   In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, David Joyner, PhD, joins us to explore these questions and how AI is transforming education, for students and educators. ChatGPT generated significant discussion when it launched in November 2022. Now, with more than a year of growing in understanding about generative AI, we are discovering what changes are necessary in the classroom.  Joyner provides valuable insights from his research and classroom experiences, addressing educators seeking basic knowledge about ChatGPT and those aiming to deepen their understanding of generative AI. Educators aren't the only ones adapting to technologies like ChatGPT; students are also adjusting. This technology holds the potential to facilitate faster learning and improvement in targeted areas. However, it may require adjustments to assessments to maintain the desired level of rigor in evaluating student mastery of the material.  We also discuss Joyner's new publication, A Teacher's Guide to Conversational AI, and the professional certificate program he developed, available on the edX online learning platform.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode About David Joyner:  Joyner is the Executive Director of Online Education & Online Master of Science in Computer Science program in the College of Computing at Georgia Tech. He has written more than 50 papers and authored three books on online learning and computer science education. 

    14. Connecting Community Engagement with the Classroom

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2024 16:33


    Are you a faculty member looking to collaborate with community organizations? By working together, universities and community organizations can create mutually beneficial relationships that enrich the educational experience, address community needs, and contribute to positive societal outcomes.  Achieving the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification is one of the aspirational imperatives included in the Augusta University strategic plan. Pursuing this elective classification involves extensive work documenting how the university is partnering with the Augusta community.  On this episode, Tina Baggott, Associate Vice President for Volunteer Services & Community Engagement at Augusta University, discusses the pursuit for this classification. She discusses its importance for higher education, available resources for faculty, and more.   Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    13. Jenn and JoAnn's 5 tips for starting the semester strong

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2024 23:05


    Every semester presents a mix of challenges and opportunities for both students and faculty. In this episode, Jenn Rose and JoAnn Edmond share five practical tips to help kickstart the semester on a strong note.  We discuss the importance of crafting a learner-centered syllabus and getting a jumpstart on integrating tools within the Learning Management System (LMS). Our conversation also touches on strategies for giving timely and meaningful feedback, with a focus on utilizing LMS tools for scheduled course communications.  Jenn and JoAnn highlight the usefulness of tools such as replace strings in personalizing messages for students, even when using a generic message for everyone. They also suggest considering the incorporation of rubrics in the LMS to clarify grading criteria and streamline the grading process. Rubrics can be used for assignments in online or face-to-face courses.  Joining us in this episode are JoAnn Edmond, Director of Instructional Innovation, and Jenn Rose, a Faculty and Instructional Developer, both from the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    12. MomentumU and You with Peter Berryman

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2023 34:11


    Seeking a short course on course design or an active learning toolkit? Explore MomentumU, a virtual professional development platform tailored for University System of Georgia (USG) faculty and staff. Directed by Peter Berryman, the Director of Digital Instruction at the Office of Teaching and Learning Excellence for USG, this platform hosts a growing array of short courses and other resources.  Full-time USG faculty members have access to self-enroll in courses, while part-time faculty and staff can request access. The self-paced short courses on MomentumU are regularly updated with content utilizing evidence-based pedagogies aimed at increasing engagement and enhancing student success. Many courses offer badges and certificates upon completion, valuable additions to your promotion and tenure portfolio. Beyond short courses, MomentumU also provides teaching toolkits and other valuable resources.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode.

    11. Grades, Growth, and Engagement with Dan Kaminstein, MD, MSED

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2023 46:42


    How might a blend of Montessori and traditional grade school education influence a college professor? Dan Kaminstein, MD, MSED, serves as the Assistant Dean for Ultrasound Education and Professor of Emergency Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia. Kaminstein's exposure to both Montessori and traditional education shapes his teaching approach, leading him to reflect on how students learn. Higher education presents challenges for both students and faculty. Kaminstein employs an active learning approach in teaching, believing that students and faculty mutually benefit, creating a dynamic environment.  Kaminstein shares insights on the growth mindset, encouraging students to perceive failure as a productive learning experience. This emphasis allows students to approach challenges as opportunities for growth and continuous improvement.  The discussion extends to Kaminstein's challenge with grading systems. Do grades impede the development of a growth mindset? Do they genuinely reflect a student's progress? Kaminstein suggests that if our goal is to foster ongoing learning, grades may not be helpful.  This episode explores practical strategies for fostering active learning, integrating a growth mindset, and reimagining assessment without traditional grades. Kaminstein provides valuable perspectives on enhancing student engagement, promoting productive failure, and aligning teaching methods with long-term learning goals.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    10. Navigating OER: Jeff Gallant and Affordable Learning Georgia

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2023 36:46


    Are you exploring the possibility of incorporating low or no-cost educational materials into your course? Whether you're just curious about these resources or ready to integrate them into your teaching, this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed helps you get started.   In this month's episode, we're joined by Jeff Gallant, the program director of Affordable Learning Georgia (ALG). ALG is on a mission to support student success and promote equitable access to education by advocating for the use of affordable and open educational resources.  Jeff delves into the world of Open Educational Resources (OER) and provides guidance on how you can kickstart the process of identifying materials for your course. For faculty within the University System of Georgia, there are faculty, library, and design champions available on campus to assist you in this endeavor. Jeff also shares invaluable insights on how you can harness the advantages of OER, from enhancing your teaching materials to alleviating financial burdens for students. Discover how OER can be a game-changer for you and a catalyst for student achievement as we explore how these open resources level the academic playing field.   Additionally, Jeff provides a breakdown of the potential cost savings for students in Georgia when courses adopt free textbooks. If you're an educator in search of open textbooks, Jeff offers practical tips to navigate this transformative landscape in education.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    9. Critical Teaching Behaviors: Defining, Documenting and Discussing Good Teaching

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2023 26:42


    How do we know good teaching when we see it? Whether you're a new faculty member, a seasoned educator, or an administrator, this episode offers a look at how we can better understand and promote effective teaching practices. Lauren Barbeau, PhD, Assistant Director for Learning and Technology Initiatives at Georgia Tech, joins us to discuss the Critical Teaching Behaviors framework (CTB). The CTB framework was developed by Barbeau and Claudia Cornejo Happel, PhD, to provide a comprehensive system for instructors and administrators to identify and document good teaching.  The CTB categorizes effective teaching behaviors into six main areas. These categories are derived from a thorough analysis of research focused on teaching and learning. The areas include alignment, inclusion, engagement, assessment, technology integration, and reflection. Barbeau explains the inspiration behind creating this framework centered on behaviors and each of the six categories.   Barbeau discusses how this comprehensive guide can help you plan a path to document your teaching and more. Barbeau says, “we're also showcasing these are the behaviors that lead to improved student outcomes. So, when you're doing these things, you can know that you're an effective instructor and someone reviewing you can know that you're effective as well.”  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    8. Provost's Insights: A Conversation with Neil MacKinnon, PhD

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2023 24:00


    On this episode we sit down with Neil MacKinnon, PhD, Augusta University provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. MacKinnon places a strong emphasis on building connections with faculty, staff, and students. He discusses the profound impact such relationships have on the college experience for students.  On the topic of mentorship, he shares personal anecdotes of how mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping his own academic journey. MacKinnon believes a good mentor can help faculty take their career to a new level and aims to facilitate meaningful mentorship opportunities for faculty members at Augusta University.  Fall semester brings the launch of Augusta University Online, which has exceeded enrollment projections. Additionally, there are new and unique degree programs, such as Biomedical Systems Engineering and a new undergraduate degree in neuroscience. MacKinnon discusses how these initiatives are part of Augusta University's ongoing efforts to attract students seeking new programs that meet workplace needs.  Additional topics of discussion include the significance of balancing teaching duties alongside research and service commitments for faculty members. MacKinnon also offers insights into the initiatives aimed at tackling the challenge of student retention and enhancing graduation rates.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page.

    7. Elevate Your Teaching: High-Impact Practices and 'Reacting to the Past'

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2023 6:57


    Uncover the elements of high-impact practices and immerse yourself in the captivating world of 'Reacting to the Past' in this special episode of Speaking of Higher Ed...Summer Shorts.  Looking to keep students engaged and motivated in higher education? Quentin Davis, PhD and Hannah Bennett, PhD from Augusta University share insights on high-impact practices that go beyond traditional teaching methods. Discover how interactive learning experiences can make a real-world impact on students and faculty alike.   We also step into history with 'Reacting to the Past,' an innovative teaching method that uses immersive role-playing games to teach complex issues. Join Andrew Goss, PhD, and Ruth McClelland-Nugent, PhD, as they discuss the benefits, challenges, and implementation of 'Reacting to the Past' in higher education. Get ready to revolutionize your teaching approach and inspire lifelong learners!  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    6. From PowerPoint to AI: Innovations in Teaching and Learning

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2023 8:23


    On this special episode of Speaking of Higher Ed...Summer Shorts we revisit innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Rhia Moreno, PhD shares how she employs multimodal pedagogy to cultivate a dynamic learning environment that caters to diverse learning styles. Discover the transformative power of creative reflection in both online and face-to-face courses.  Arthur Takahashi sheds light on the use of multimedia learning principles in course design. Drawing from Mayer's research, he shares strategies to create immersive learning experiences using high embodiment and other key principles. From PowerPoint presentations to instructional videos, discover principles for crafting impactful and lasting learning moments.  We also chat about AI text generators, like ChatGPT, and their implications in higher education. Candis Bond, PhD and James Garner, PhD from the Center for Writing Excellence at Augusta University, engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the ethics, possibilities, and limits of these AI tools.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    5. Step into History: How 'Reacting to the Past' Can Transform Your Teaching with Drs. Goss and McClelland-Nugent

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2023 40:37


    In this episode we explore an innovative teaching method that has been gaining popularity in recent years: 'Reacting to the Past', also known as ‘Reacting'. This pedagogy uses immersive role-playing games to teach complex historical and contemporary issues in a highly engaging and effective way.  Our guests, Andrew Goss, PhD, and Ruth McClelland-Nugent, PhD, both experienced history educators, share their insights into the world of 'Reacting to the Past'. They discuss their experiences using this teaching method in their own courses, the benefits it provides, and the resources available to faculty interested in incorporating it into their curriculum.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find more episodes and resources on our show page. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. 

    4. Improve Learning Success with Drs. Quentin Davis and Hannah Bennett

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2023 40:37


    Are you looking to improve student engagement and motivation? Dr. Quentin Davis and Dr. Hannah Bennett from Augusta University discuss high-impact practices that go beyond test memorization and create lifelong learners. By incorporating elements such as appropriately high expectations and frequent feedback, these practices can help you keep your students engaged and motivated throughout their academic journey. Learn practical strategies and tips for incorporating high-impact practices into your teaching, including fully online courses.  Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find us online at augusta.edu/innovation/sohe, on Facebook at facebook.com/AUGCII or send us an email with your questions or suggestions at CII@augusta.edu. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode.

    3. Chatting about AI in Higher Ed with Drs. Bond and Garner

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2023 48:17


    AI has created a conundrum for higher education. AI text generators, computer programs capable of efficiently producing quality written content, have raised questions about the possibilities, ethics and limits of the use of programs such as ChatGPT in higher education. While artificial intelligence (AI) has been a part of our lives for a while — hello Siri, chatbots, and real-time autocorrect and predictive texts — increasingly sophisticated AI text generators have educators worried about how students might use or misuse these programs to write papers. In this episode, Dr. Candis Bond, director of the Center for Writing Excellence at Augusta University, and Dr. James Garner, associate director of the Center for Writing Excellence, chat about why we teach writing in college and how these text generators might be used in the classroom. They note that one of the main advantages of AI text generators is their ability to produce large amounts of content quickly and effectively to summarize information. Additionally, GPT-3 can be used to edit and structure text. However, there are limitations, including the fact that the model can generate biased or incorrect information and struggles to draw conclusions or insights the same way humans can. Additionally, the AI model may attribute authorship incorrectly, leading to perpetuating authorship gaps by gender or race. Dr. Bond and Dr. Garner note that while AI text generators can be helpful for generating ideas and pushing oneself as a critical thinker, they should not be used as a substitute for the valuable skills and habits of mind developed through the act of writing. Ultimately, the purpose of writing is not just to produce polished final products, but to teach people valuable skills that will be with them for life. Wondering what AI text generators are capable of? You've just experienced it. The second paragraph of this episode description was largely written by ChatGPT. The Speaking of Higher Ed podcast is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find us online at augusta.edu/innovation/sohe, on Facebook at facebook.com/AUGCII or send us an email with your questions or suggestions at CII@augusta.edu. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode.

    2. Using Multimedia Learning Principles with Arthur Takahashi, MPA, MA

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2023 33:02


    How are the words and pictures you use in your course content helping to improve learning for your students? Arthur Takahashi, adjunct faculty member and instructional designer at Augusta University, discusses how he uses multimedia learning principles in his course design and delivery to do just that. Mayer and Moreno's (1999) study of the cognitive principles of multimedia learning continues to inform the creation of learning materials. Before discussing how he uses Mayer's principles, Arthur touches on the three goals of multimedia instructional design which each of the principles will help support. Arthur shares how he uses Mayer's principle of high embodiment and others in order to provide students with an experience that helps improve learning and retention. From creating a PowerPoint to making instructional videos, these principles can help you craft an impactful and lasting learning experience for your students. You can read more about Moreno and Mayer's (1999) research on cognitive principles of multimedia learning or pick up Mayer's latest edition of his book, Multimedia Learning, from Cambridge University Press. Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find us online at augusta.edu/innovation/sohe, on Facebook at facebook.com/AUGCII or send us an email with your questions or suggestions at CII@augusta.edu.

    1. Creating Engaging and Interactive Courses with Rhia Moreno, PhD

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2023 40:50


    Dr. Rhia Moreno from the College of Education and Human Development discusses how she applies multimodal pedagogy to create a more varied learning environment that supports different learning styles and skillsets. Her approach includes incorporating AU approved tech such as Flip, Padlet and VoiceThread as well as encouraging creative reflection in face-to-face and online courses. In this episode of Speaking of Higher Ed, Dr. Moreno highlights what multimodal pedagogy looks like and shares strategies on how to incorporate inventive approaches across disciplines. Dr. Moreno will lead a webinar about diversifying your online instruction on February 22. For more information on this webinar email: CII@augusta.edu. Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find us online at augusta.edu/innovation, on Facebook at facebook.com/AUGCII or send us an email with your questions or suggestions at CII@augusta.edu.

    Speaking of Higher Ed...Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2023 0:57


    Speaking of Higher Ed is a new podcast from Augusta University that exists to create a resource that will inspire and assist faculty in creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences. We hope to provide higher ed faculty with a platform for sharing research related to the scholarship of teaching and learning, spark new instructional ideas and promote interdisciplinary instructional methods. New episodes release on the third Wednesday of each month during spring and fall semesters. Speaking of Higher Ed is produced by the Center for Instructional Innovation at Augusta University. Find us online at augusta.edu/innovation, on Facebook at facebook.com/AUGCII or send us an email with your questions or suggestions at CII@augusta.edu.

    Claim Speaking of Higher Ed: Conversations on Teaching and Learning

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