Student Inspired Radio

The Art Historian in me is absolutely devastated, utterly wrecked. The optimist in me is so relieved to see that all is not lost, that human beings do what they have always done in the face of tragedy: come together, act with one, singular intention and save everything that can be saved, and then ...rebuild. Link to The World segments: https://www.pri.org/stories/2019-04-16/notre-dame-remembered-gathering-point-world https://www.pri.org/stories/2019-04-16/why-are-we-so-moved-plight-notre-dame "The Falling Man"  

Do you know the difference between a design problem statement and a concept statement?  Would you like to learn more about architectural precedent and field research to support your design solutions?  This podcast is a brief overview of concept development, architectural precedent, and field research for interior design projects and offers several examples and resources to help take your projects to the next level!  Link to First in Architecture website: Precedent – http://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/architecture-precedent-study-and-analysis/ Concepts - http://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/how-to-develop-architectural-concepts/   Contributor: Krista Nutter

Learn what all this fuss about CIDA is, why it’s important and how it impacts you as a student in our interior design bachelors program. Link to CIDA website – https://accredit-id.org/ Link to the Art Institutes Accreditation webpage with CIDA statement - https://www.artinstitutes.edu/online/about/accreditation   Contributor: Krista Nutter

Being criticized for the work that you do is not always easy to take…but criticism or feedback is a good thing!  This podcast examines why feedback is good for you as a student.  It is not only a necessary “evil” …but a very important guide!   This podcast will hopefully help you view feedback in a new way.  If feedback is utilized constructively it can help you achieve your ultimate educational goal…graduation!   Contributor: Dr. Sheila Cuffy

In this podcast, Assistant Professor of Digital Photography Ellyn Norris interviews former student and photographer Kristen Giles about starting a career in photography. Contributor: Ellyn Norris

As online students, we spend a lot of time in front of the computer – usually sitting down. Then, to relax, we often “put our feet up” and “chill on the couch” – additional sedentary activities. However, medical science indicates that sitting down too much can have negative health impacts. This podcast discussed those impacts, solutions to combat them, and offers a “live” stretching session. For a video of the stretching exercises, please visit: https://www.dropbox.com/s/nge876drxtj3deq/IMG_0969.MOV?dl=0   Contributor: Alisa Gaylon  

This podcast explores factors that contribute to ineffective presentations, the pitfalls to avoid and best practices to adopt. Contributor: Margaret Helthaler

“Student’s Guide to 400 Level Interior Design Courses “-This is a discussion of the important items students need to know about their 400-level interior design classes such as: obtaining an internship, selecting a thesis topic, preparing work for their portfolio, which courses must be taken in succession, and so on. Link to “Student’s Guide to 400 Level Interior Design Courses” – https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1Y8XHk3ZPH8RWV3dEY2V1FqcHM/view?usp=sharing Contributor: Krista Nutter

Many students, especially those enrolled in creative type programs like our degrees at Ai, express fear or frustration when faced with writing papers. Often they are unfamiliar or overwhelmed with proper formatting in either the MLA or APA style. Sometimes they understand the course material but are confused as to how to organize their content or they do not know how to get started with an essay. This podcast presents some simple guidelines from a Professor’s perspective so that students can maximize their points earned for each essay or paper submitted. The session focuses on both format and content (to download a sample MLA template click here https://goo.gl/KWMlmL or for a sample APA template click here https://goo.gl/cXZqVq). Contributor: Alisa Gaylon

"An Overview of the Interior Design Profession" - What is an Interior Designer?  What is the difference between a designer and a decorator?  What are the available career paths for an interior designer?  This podcast will answer these questions and discuss criteria that constitute establishing a profession – education, examination, a code of ethics, and professional organizations.  We will discuss ASID, IIDA, CIDA, NCIDQ*, and important skills that professional interior designers need to be successful. Contributor: Krista Nutter *The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division does not guarantee third-party certification/licensure. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division.    

This is a podcast specifically for newer interior design students to help them navigate their academic experience.  We’ll focus on where to go for help, completing tasks thoroughly and on-time, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.  We’ll talk about expectations such as making sure they have their drafting supplies and software on time.  We’ll include tips for seeking out assistance and a list of resources for them to consult when they need extra help. Contributor: Krista Nutter Link to “Resources Document” – https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1Y8XHk3ZPH8aHBmUEVBYklkbVk Link to “Image Compression Tips Document” - https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1Y8XHk3ZPH8ZDljY3lScV9LNFU  

Gamification is a fairly new phenomenon that is being used in many areas of education as well as the workforce.  In order for this technique to be used successfully, it’s important to understand the factors that allow the learner to engage in the activity and retain the information.  Motivation is one piece of that puzzle.  This podcast will discuss the importance of motivation (and flow) in gamification.  This is helpful for anyone who is using gamification in their area of work, classroom, or anyone designing games for this purpose. Contributor: Kelle Daniels References Csikszentmihalyi, M.  Flow.  Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 1990.  New York, NY.  Gee, J. P. (2003). What video games have to teach us about learning and literacy. Computers in Entertainment (CIE), 1(1), 20-20. Greenberg BS, Sherry JL, Lachlan K, et al. Orientations to video games among gender and age groups. Simulation and Gaming 2010; 41:238–259. Jen-Wei, C., & Hung-Yu, W. (2016). Exploring Engaging Gamification Mechanics in Massive Online Open Courses. Journal Of Educational Technology & Society, 19(2), 177-203. Johnson, D., Gardner, J., & Sweetser, P. (2016). Motivations for videogame play: Predictors of time spent playing. Computers In Human Behavior, 63805-812. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2016.06.028 Kwon, K. H., Halavais, A., & Havener, S. (2015). Tweeting Badges: User Motivations for Displaying Achievement in Publicly Networked Environments.   Cyberpsychology, Behavior & Social Networking, 18(2), 93-100. doi:10.1089/cyber.2014.0438 Myers, David. Psychology in Everyday Life. Worth Publishers, 2009. VitalBook file. Sherry, J. L., Lucas, K., Greenberg, B. S., & Holmstrom, A. (2013). Child Development and Genre Preference: Research for Educational Game Design. Cyberpsychology, Behavior & Social Networking, 16(5), 335-339. doi:10.1089/cyber.2012.0242 Su, C., & Cheng, C. (2015). A mobile gamification learning system for improving the learning motivation and achievements. Journal Of Computer Assisted Learning, 31(3), 268-286. doi:10.1111/jcal.12088 Vermeulen, L., & Van Looy, J. (2016). “I Play So I Am?” A Gender Study into Stereotype Perception and Genre Choice of Digital Game Players. Journal Of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, 60(2), 286-304. doi:10.1080/08838151.2016.1164169  

When first learning the Language of Visual Arts, it is normal to become overwhelmed by concerns of whether we are doing it correctly.  The terms may seem confusing and difficult to comprehend.  In this podcast we discuss the challenges that come with identifying the Elements of Art and integrating them into an analysis of the Principles of Design.  Through practice, we come to better “see” a work of art or design in new and more dynamic ways.  We expand our scope to include why style and subject matter are important, the significance of historical and cultural context, and how art functions in society. While the process of writing about art can be daunting, we are rewarded with a deeper understanding of art, the artists who create it, and the arc of time within which they are made.  Contributor: Jeremy Hockett

Our entertainment industry, including film, television, fiction and games is rife with dystopian and post-apocalyptic narratives, but where did this genre come from and why is it so engaging?  What makes the setting so attractive in games like Fallout 4?  In this episode we will look at the fun of playing at the end of the world. Contributor: John Conway

In this episode we will take a look at two contrasting styles of video games: those that are driven by story, narrative and character and those that are “open sandboxes.”  No Man’s Sky will be discussed to see if it has failed or if it is successful as a game without a narrative thrust.  Can games without narrative or character be successful.  If so, how? Contributor: John Conway

This question emerges for us all: How can I get this all done?  The pressure of deadlines and due dates is all around us and there’s no shortage of demands on our time, as we take on the additional responsibilities of online learning and teaching. Adding school and work to our already busy schedule can complicate everything else if you don’t have a handle on how to organize and use our time effectively…and while we all agree on the importance of time management skills,we struggle to name specific resources to help with this dilemma…and thus it becomes a real challenge! Contributor: Sheila Cuffy

In this episode the concept of world-building is discussed in order to help designers create immersive contexts for their games, settings that are consistent and believable.  Advice is shared by writers like Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and Gary Gygax. Contributor: John Conway

In Part 2 of The Language of Art, we discuss how to recombine the Elements of Art into an analysis of the Principles of Design.  This podcast explains why we study great works of art and design as part of aiding us in our perceptual abilities.  Understanding how to exercise our descriptive and analytical skills results in a greater capacity to perceive the world around us.  With practice, this process becomes internalized, intuitive and second nature.  By studying, describing and analyzing works of art and design, we become more keenly attuned as artists and designers ourselves.  Balance Contrast Movement Emphasis Rhythm and Pattern Scale or Proportion Unity or Variety Contributor: Jeremy Hockett

In this first of a two part podcast, we discuss in depth the advantages of learning the Language of Visual Arts.  Just as with music, we need to know how individual elements are used and combined to create a finished whole.  We cover the Elements of Art in detail,providing a rationale for why breaking done a work of art or design into individual elements is a necessary first step for presenting a visual description that establishes a foundation for synthesizing a formal analysis of a work of art or design.  We emphasize the process of deconstructing artworks, which will segue into the second podcast covering the Principles of Design. Line Value Shape Form Space Color Texture Contributor: Jeremy Hockett

One common problem that many often complain about is the fear they feel when they have to speak in public. It goes by many names: the jitters, stage fright,communication apprehension, and even sometimes "the butterflies." Many believe we would be better off if we could be totally free from apprehension during public speaking. However, based on years of study by Professor Gerald Phillips (1977), it was found that apprehension is not necessarily negative. In fact, a little apprehension helps us to do our best job. According to Phillips, nearly all students experience nervous tension during their presentations, but most have learned to manage the apprehension. Knowing that apprehension is common to most…and listed as the number 1 fear in The Book of Lists (1977)…we will recommend ways to manage speech apprehension for our benefit…not demise! Contributor: Sheila Cuffy References Gerald M. Phillips, “Rhetoritherapy Versus the Medical Model: Dealing with Reticence,” Communication Education 26 (1977): 37 Wallace, Amy, Irving Wallace, and David Wallechinsky. The Book of Lists. New York: Morrow, 1977. Print.

So, what is this thing called mindfulness?  It is not about emptying your mind!  That’s simply not possible!  Mindfulness can help you to reduce stress, live in the moment, and become a more effective learner.   Mindfulness is about training your attention on the present moment without dwelling on what has happened in the past or worrying about the future.   Join me in exploring the benefits of mindfulness, a few exercises to help you get started,and more! Contributor: Alexis Chontos

Video games are a billion dollar industry.  155 million Americans, of all ages, play video games.  It is the preferred form of entertainment for most kids.  Due to the impact of video games on our society, it’s important for parents, educators, gamers, and game designers to understand the effects of video games.  Retrospectively, video games have received negative publicity.  Within the research, there is controversy regarding the negative effects of video games.  But, video games can also be helpful.  This podcast is going to focus on the positive attributes that video games provide to individuals. Contributor: Kelle Daniels References Adachi, P. p.,& Willoughby, T. (2013). More Than Just Fun and Games: The Longitudinal Relationships Between Strategic Video Games, Self-Reported Problem Solving Skills, and Academic Grades. Journal Of Youth & Adolescence, 42(7), 1041-1052.doi:10.1007/s10964-013-9913-9 Cicchino, M. m.(2015). Using Game-Based Learning to Foster Critical Thinking in Student Discourse. Interdisciplinary Journal Of Problem-Based Learning, 9(2), 57-74. doi:10.7771/1541-5015.1481 Greitemeyer,T., & Cox, C. (2013). There's no 'I' in team: Effects of cooperative video games on cooperative behavior. European Journal Of Social Psychology, 43(3), 224-228. Grizzard, M.,Tamborini, R., Lewis, R. J., Wang, L., & Prabhu, S. (2014). Being Bad in a Video Game Can Make Us More Morally Sensitive. Cyberpsychology, Behavior & Social Networking, 17(8), 499-504.doi:10.1089/cyber.2013.0658 Hamlen, K. R.(2014). Video Game Strategies as Predictors of Academic Achievement. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 50(2), 271-284. doi:10.2190/EC.50.2.g King, D. L.,Delfabbro, P. H., & Griffiths, M. D. (2011). The Role of Structural Characteristics in Problematic Video Game Play: An Empirical Study. International Journal Of MentalHealth & Addiction, 9(3), 320-333. doi:10.1007/s11469-010-9289-y Krcmar, M., & Cingel, D. P. (2016). Moral Foundations Theory and Moral Reasoning in Video Game Play: Using Real-Life Morality in aGame Context. Journal Of Broadcasting& Electronic Media, 60(1), 87-103. doi:10.1080/08838151.2015.1127246 Lorentz, P.,Ferguson, C. J., & Schott, G. (2015). The experience and benefits of game playing. Cyberpsychology, 9(3),52-56. doi:10.5817/CP2015-3-1 Rice, S.,Graves, W., Stauble, M., & Mehta, R. (2015). The Perception of Video Game Experience and Its Effects on STEMTasks and Tests. Ubiquitous Learning: An International Journal,8(2), 13-19. Soukup,C. (2007). Mastering the Game: Gender and the Entelechial Motivational System of Video Games. Women's Studies In Communication, 30(2), 157-178. Suziedelyte, A.(2015). MEDIA AND HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT: CAN VIDEO GAME PLAYING MAKE YOU SMARTER?. Economic Inquiry, 53(2), 1140-1155. doi:10.1111/ecin.12197 Entertainment Software Association. Essential Facts about the computer and video game industry. 2015 Sales, Demographic and Usage Data.   

The online classroom is set up and managed by trained educators who know the best ways for reaching out and teaching students. Often times faculty see situations differently than students. Join me for a brief tour through the mind of the online faculty member. It may help you to understand the faculty and student role within the classroom to help you enjoy your learning experience more. Contributor: Melinda Kulick

In this episode The Traveling Economics Teacher interviews Wendy White, Regional Training Manager at Unique Vacations which is affiliated with Sandals Resorts about the market for destination weddings.  The interview is conducted at Sandals Emerald Bay resort on Grand Exuma island. The interview considers the efforts required to be successful in the destination wedding industry in an island setting. Contributor: Melissa Muender *Note: There are some audio issues that could not be fixed or edited out, since this was a live interview on a portable device in a public setting.  We are sorry for any inconvenience this causes.

In this episode of The Traveling Economics Teacher we are introduced to Mr. Rob Razavi, historian at the Arizona Biltmore resort, Phoenix, AZ.  The concept of product differentiation is highlighted as Instructor Muender and Mr. Razavi discuss the history and unique setting of this beautiful historic hotel which is known worldwide as the "Jewel of the Desert." This distinguished resort boasts having hosted 13 US presidents thus far. Celebrities of all sorts have enjoyed the hospitality of the resort since its opening in 1929. The architect of the original structures, Albert Chase McArthur, was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright served as the consulting architect for the initial construction.  Having begun service during the time of the Great Depression, it has been quite an accomplishment to achieve such ongoing and unparalleled success. Contributor: Melissa Muender *Note: There are some audio issues that could not be fixed or edited out, since this was a live interview on a portable device in a public setting.  We are sorry for any inconvenience this causes.

How did that last New Year’s resolution go for you? Wishing you could be more consistent with your goals? Ever feel like there must be more to life, but not sure what it is? Do you desire to set goals but just don’t know where to start?  Ever wonder where your time or money are sneaking off to? Do you want to get more out of life but unsure of how to make it happen? Even if your life is already going great, there is more to come! Learn how to set goals and achieve the best that life has to offer for you. Regardless of your current professional status, whether you are a student, successful professional or in between careers, this podcast is sure to have something for you. Contributor: Kim Rapach

Social media is a large part of our society.  Millions of people use it, resulting in both negative and positive experiences.  There are multiple factors that can affect whether the experience is positive or negative, but those factors are not related to social networking sites–they are related to the individual using the social networking sites.  This podcast will focus on the psychology and interaction of social media, personality, and individual usage. Contributor: Kelle Daniels

College can be one of the most monumental changes we can make in life. And with this new change can come LOTs of stress…following a new schedule, final exams, balancing classes, homework,social life and often a job, living on a tight budget, pressure to get good grades, trying to get enough sleep and eat right…the potential stressors are also abundant when we multi-task…with balancing family responsibilities and friend responsibilities with college responsibilities. Considering all of this, how can college students not be highly stressed out?  Believe me…I have great compassion for you and can identify with these stressors.  I would like offer some tried and true tips to help you de-stress. Poll source: mtvU - Associated Press College Survey, May, 2009 (http://surveys.ap.org/data%5CEdison%5CAPMTV%20Topline%20marginals.pdf) Interviewing dates: April 22 - May 4, 2009 Interviews: 2,240 4-year college students age 18-24 Margin of error: +/- 3.0 May 21: AP-mtvU Poll: college students and depression Contributor: Sheila Cuffy

All students at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online are required to complete a number of General Education courses.  This includes courses in Art History.  In Part II of this podcast, I continue the conversation with Art Institute of Pittsburgh Assistant Online Program Director Christina Kotoske to consider why this is beneficial to students in the Creative Arts.  No art or design exists in a vacuum.  Every artist or designer is influenced in some way or another by those who have come before them.   The more exposure we have to the history of art, the more we are able to incorporate diverse ideas and techniques into our own creative process.  We can think of this with a musical analogy. Contemporary DJs who “sample” parts of existing recordings rely on large collections to draw on for the creation of something new and novel.  By studying and listening to this musical history, the DJ can tap into a virtually endless reservoir of raw material.  The same idea applies to visual arts and design. Contributor: Jeremy Hockett Artists/Movements discussed: Marcel Duchamp (Dada) Otto Dix (German Expressionism/New Objectivity) Jackson Pollock (Abstract Expressionism) Postmodernism

All students at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online are required to complete a number of General Education courses.  This includes courses in Art History.  In Part I of this podcast, I will talk with Assistant Online Program Director Christina Kotoske to consider why this is beneficial to students in the Creative Arts.  No art or design exists in a vacuum.  Every artist or designer is influenced in some way or another by those who have come before them.   The more exposure we have to the history of art, the more we are able to incorporate diverse ideas and techniques into our own creative process.  We can think of this with a musical analogy. Contemporary DJs who “sample” parts of existing recordings rely on large collections to draw on for the creation of something new and novel.  By studying and listening to this musical history, the DJ can tap into a virtually endless reservoir of raw material.  The same idea applies to visual arts and design. Contributor: Jeremy Hockett Artists/Movements discussed: Marcel Duchamp (Dada) Otto Dix (German Expressionism/New Objectivity) Jackson Pollock (Abstract Expressionism) Postmodernism

We live in a society that heralds productivity at all costs.  Individuals often cutback on sleep in order to complete the necessary activities and engagements for life fulfillment.  However, research has shown that cutting back on sleep is very much detrimental to quality of life.  It’s ironic that individuals cut back sleep in order to increase performance, yet sleep deprivation negatively affects many aspects of performance.  College students are one aspect of the population that has difficulty with healthy sleeping habits.  Adjusting to a new academic schedule, environment, and social calendar, many college students adjust their sleep schedule accordingly, but not in a healthy way. Unfortunately, this is not conducive to learning, performance, or socialization. This podcast focuses on poor sleep in college students, the effects of poor sleep on learning, health and quality of life, as well as useful strategies to improve learning with sleep. Contributor: Kelle Daniels

We live in a time when our movie and game culture is full of fantastic imagery yet we are at the height of scientific achievement. What does it mean to create games in a time of scientific Realism? This episode will explore what Realism is and what “Genre Fiction” is and how it affects what we do as game designers. The episode will also take a look at what some of the more creative writers trafficking in Realism have said about their own creativity. Contributor: John Conway

In this podcast, Kim Rapach, full time instructor and therapist, shares some funny stories as she offers a creative way of looking at the power of language. Kids say the darnedest things. The question is, are we listening? Contributor: Kim Rapach

This podcast focuses on person-centered creativity. It discusses three areas of creativity as well as personality characteristics related to creativity. The goal of this podcast is to aid students in understanding and identifying areas of creativity and ways that they can improve their own creativity. Contributor: Kelle Daniels

This podcast is an introduction to the many uses that the world of psychology has in our daily lives. Psychology is the study of human behavior. It is apparent in our social, academic, and professional lives as well as useful in understanding information that is happening in our world. In this series of podcasts, different areas of psychology will be introduced and applied to our everyday lives. This specific podcast will briefly discuss the history of psychology and how it developed into an applied science using practical examples such as memory and creativity. Contributor: Kelle Daniels

Communication has been around since human beings were created, but as a discipline it came to prominence around the 1960s. Paul Watzlawick (a famous communication theorist) said:  "You cannot not communicate." What that means is even when you’re not actively sending a message, even when words are not coming out of your mouth,coming across the keyboard from your typing, or being texted you’re still communicating. It’s important to be cognizant of the messages we communicate…because intentional or unintentional you’re still sending a message.  The importance of communication cannot be denied. Using effective communication is crucial to relationships and to be successful at work, school or play. There are, of course, many types of communication. We use verbal communication, nonverbal communication, written communication and many forms of each of those. We can’t escape the act of communicating…so lets just embrace it and work on using it effectively.  Remember, you cannot not communicate…so why not do it effectively? Contributor: Sheila Cuffy

All of us will at some point have some kind of emergency that prevents us from gaining access to the classroom or completing work on time.  From inclement weather, power outages and service disruptions, to travel delays,family crises, and computer or hard drive failures, it is inevitable that we will all face hurdles that may cause us to fall behind.  In this podcast we will explore some ways to prepare a “disaster plan” to help mitigate unexpected challenges that may arise. Print Out important contact informationBack Up all work in progress and once completeIdentify alternative internet access pointsPrevent shutoffs or disruptions of servicesProtect equipment and information Contributor: Jeremy Hockett

Are you happy?  Ever wonder how some people just seem to be happy? Do you ever wish you could be more like them? This session will identify habits of happy people and how to intentionally emulate them in everyday life. You'll be happy that you listened in. Contributor: Kim Rapach

We all know it’s important to eat right and take care of ourselves. With our long list of daily responsibilities how in the world is it possible? This podcast shares a few easy ways to approach health and wellness with a little planning and preparation. Visit [https://goo.gl/phn36J] to download the blank meal plan to accompany this podcast. Contributor: Melinda Kulick

Are you feeling overwhelmed, trying to balance work, school, and personal obligations? Do you feel like you are constantly falling behind in class and your grades are suffering due to late point deductions? If so, let's talk about time management. Join Adjunct Faculty Emily Brienza-Larsen, as she talks about tips for balancing multiple responsibilities. She will share her schedule and time table that will help you find a balance in your schedule.       Contributor: Emily Brienza-Larsen

While there are many reasons that learning math is important, we explore the answer to this question when determining how much math you will use in your respective field. In this interview Darlene Mazak speaks with Adjunct Faculty member, Sandra Lesh, from the Graphic Design Department. Sandra has had positions in both the creative and production areas of the graphic design field. This includes her work as a production artist/prepress operator with Top Graphics in St. Louis, MO, as well as a senior graphic designer for Adams on Advertising, also in St. Louis. In addition, she has done freelance design work.  Together we explore the specific tasks that require math and what level of math are needed in some of the job opportunities that a graphic design student may encounter as they venture out into the work environment. Contributor: Darlene Mazak

In this first episode of the series John Conway discusses a variety of ideas and concepts that relate to the concept of “world building,” leaning on two masters of the craft: C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.       Contributor: John Conway

Do more. Do it faster. Do it better. Be better!  In today’s culture we are bombarded with images and tag lines that tell us simply, we are not enough. We are stalked and chased down the path of having to hustle for our worthiness. This path leads to a rabbit hole, where we find ourselves feeling as though no matter how hard we try, it’s never enough. It’s no wonder the rates of depression and anxiety are at an all time high. It’s time for a change of pace. New and Improved is an honest and fun discussion about how to take the best care of yourself in order to be the best version of you. We will learn how to push back against the language of “I’m too busy” and you will learn how to embrace a new language of “I am worthy”. During this first segment, we will learn to the embrace the idea of a new and improved version of ourselves without changing a thing! Practical, tips, tools and resources will be provided. Contributor: Kim Rapach

The dreaded writer’s block is one of these phenomenon that seems to cross all disciplines regarding the written word, not simply in our academic writing projects but into our career pursuits and even our more leisurely writing pursuits. However, a few simple tricks, a bit of persistence, and a healthy dose of patience may in fact be all that is required to face the writer’s block dilemma! Contributor: Michael O'Donnell

Listen to a discussion between two college students and an instructor about organization habits. They will discuss various tools to use, and look at some of the challenges of organization in an online format. There will be some humor and plenty of scenarios to work through and correct for better organization and online course success. Organization is a key element of an online course. This discussion will help you find some new tips and think about how some habits might lead to problems that can be avoided. Contributor: Connie Dolecki

You have probably seen “Your Portfolio Starts Now” in your classrooms, but what does it mean and why should you do it?        In this podcast, Jeremy Hockett speaks with Full-time Faculty member Nancy Zeller about the importance of beginning a portfolio early on in ones studies.  We discuss setting up an account to store and share your portfolio, and why it is a beneficial tool both while attending and after graduating from school.  We explore some of the options students have for the hosting of portfolio material.  Nancy Zeller explains how she has used such resources in her own professional career.  How might a professional online portfolio foster meaningful networking and productive "marketing"? What should one include in a portfolio? Ultimately, for students in the arts, a professional portfolio is a “visual resume” that documents the skills and creativity of an artist or designer.  It is perhaps the most important element of success in your field.       Link: www.behance.net       Contributor: Jeremy Hockett

This podcast shares five ways students with family can successfully manage both school and family life. Contributor: Michael Catello

Student Inspired Radio is a podcast channel that lets faculty and industry professionals share insight for your success. We hope you enjoy each nugget of information presented as each broadcast has been specifically designed with the online student in mind.