Teaching in Higher Ed

Kent Kauffman, an associate professor of business law and ethics at Purdue University, discusses vital legal issues for college faculty, drawing from his book, "Navigating Choppy Waters." He highlights the importance of clarity in syllabi as communication tools rather than contracts. Kauffman addresses academic freedom, noting that both faculty and students possess rights in public institutions. He also explains ownership of teaching materials and copyright implications, providing insights essential for navigating the complexities of academia.

Jasmine Roberts-Crews, a lecturer at The Ohio State University and a doctoral student, dives into the intersection of socially just open education and Black feminist pedagogy. She challenges mainstream feminism's narrative, emphasizing Black women's experiences are crucial for inclusivity. The discussion highlights the importance of agency and renewable assignments that foster meaningful engagement. Roberts-Crews also explores the emotional connections through nurturing plants and how digital tools can enhance learning environments, advocating for the humanization of classrooms.

Christopher Ostro, an Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of Colorado, specializes in writing and rhetoric with a focus on AI detection tools. He discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding these tools in education. Ostro emphasizes the need for transparency and ethical practices in academic writing, urging students to engage critically with AI. He argues that while AI detection has its place, it shouldn't be the sole basis for grading, and encourages educators to foster open communication with students about their use of these technologies.

Todd Zakrajsek, an expert in college teaching and author of "Classroom Assessment Techniques," explores pivotal strategies for engaging learners. He emphasizes the importance of understanding student anxieties around assessments, advocating for interactive methods to enhance comprehension. Zakrajsek highlights the balance between formative and summative assessments while sharing anecdotes from psychology classes. He also discusses fostering critical thinking, the necessity of meaningful assessments, and shares tools like virtual brainstorming to transform classroom dynamics.

Liz Norell, the Associate Director of Instructional Support at the University of Mississippi and author of "The Present Professor: Authenticity and Transformational Teaching," discusses the power of authenticity in education. She emphasizes the need for psychological safety to cultivate empathy and shares personal insights from her teaching journey. Norell addresses the challenges educators face in balancing professional pressures with genuine connections and stresses the importance of meaningful engagement aligned with student goals.

Cyndi Kernahan, a professor and director at the University of Wisconsin, River Falls, shares her expertise on race and racism in education. She discusses strategies for fostering discussions around institutionalized racism, aiming for students to focus on systemic issues rather than personal guilt. Kernahan highlights the significance of acknowledging intersectionality and the complexities of teaching race to enhance understanding of social privileges. She also recommends relevant literature and television shows that encourage deep reflection and engagement.

Peter Felten, Executive Director of the Center for Engaged Learning at Elon University, and Kassidy Puckett, a recent graduate and Master's student, delve into the essence of building relationships in education. They discuss how relationships enhance learning, well-being, and student success. Kassidy emphasizes the importance of empathy and active listening in the classroom. Peter highlights curiosity as a practice, while the duo shares insights on using personal stories to create a connection among students, fostering a supportive and engaged learning environment.

Kerry Mandulak, a professor at Pacific University specializing in speech science and inclusive teaching, discusses the vital role of transparency in education. She emphasizes how TILT fosters success among diverse learners and advocates for embracing reflection and revision in the learning process. Sharing personal anecdotes, she highlights the impact of emotional connections, including the power of a supportive hug, in nurturing a positive classroom environment. Additionally, she explores transformative habits that enhance both teaching effectiveness and student engagement.

Rajiv Jhangiani, Vice Provost at Brock University, discusses the urgent need for justice in education. He emphasizes the importance of designing educational tools that don't reinforce systemic biases. Jhangiani highlights the success of zero-textbook degree programs in making education more equitable. He shares insights on fostering open dialogue regarding academic integrity and the role of AI in learning. The conversation underscores the necessity of incorporating diverse voices and collaborative efforts to create inclusive educational environments.

Betsy Barre, Assistant Provost and Executive Director at Wake Forest University, offers insights on the intersection of moral and political philosophy in education. She discusses the challenge educators face in navigating neutrality while encouraging open dialogue in the classroom. Barre emphasizes the ethical implications of sharing personal beliefs and highlights the need for transparency in grading practices. Additionally, she addresses the significance of integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into business ethics education, underscoring the complexities of teaching in politically diverse settings.