EdUp Curriculum

In this episode, Nicole Poff speaks with Olena Zhadko, the Senior Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Lehman College. They discuss the various functions of the center, including support for faculty and student success, the importance of collaboration, and the innovative approaches taken to enhance the educational experience. Olena shares insights on how the center has evolved, the significance of student engagement, and the strategies implemented to create a supportive environment for both students and faculty. The conversation emphasizes the shared responsibility of student success across all divisions of the institution and the importance of listening to student needs.

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Rex Holiday explore the evolving landscape of EdTech and instructional design. Rex shares his journey from wireless telecom to developing effective training solutions, emphasizing the importance of needs analysis, rapid prototyping, and designing for application rather than mere information transfer. They discuss common misconceptions in training approaches, the challenges of traditional development timelines, and the necessity for L&D teams to adapt to current trends, including the integration of generative AI. Rex also highlights the significance of continuous learning and knowledge transfer in preparing students for the workforce.

In this conversation, Nicole Poff interviews Dr. Christy Kirk, the first female president of Concordia University Texas. Dr. Kirk shares her journey in higher education, her commitment to community engagement, and the importance of adaptability in serving students' needs. She discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education, the significance of liberal arts in career preparation, and her vision for the future of Concordia. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building trust within the community and the need for institutions to be responsive to the evolving landscape of higher education.

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Dr. Jay Roberts discuss the unique model of Warren Wilson College, a federally designated work college in North Carolina. They explore the impact of Hurricane Helene on the campus, the college's work program that requires every student to work, and how this model fosters leadership and real-world skills. They also touch on the importance of inclusivity, the role of pets in campus life, and the need for faculty and staff development to support student learning. The discussion emphasizes the integration of experiential learning and the significance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.

In this conversation, Nicole Poff speaks with John Miles, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Reinhardt University, about the significant curriculum overhaul at the university. They discuss the importance of faculty involvement, the creation of student pathways, and the accessibility of minors and courses. John emphasizes the need for a caring educational environment that supports student exploration and success, while also addressing the challenges posed by academic policies and the changing landscape of higher education. The conversation highlights the university's commitment to fostering a positive student experience and the importance of feedback and mentorship in the learning process.

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and William Donoher explore the transformative potential of AI in higher education. They discuss the importance of shifting mindsets to embrace AI as a tool for student success rather than a threat. The conversation highlights various applications of AI, including personalized learning, engagement strategies, and the need for institutions to adopt a strategic approach to AI integration. They also address skepticism surrounding AI and emphasize the necessity of keeping students at the center of educational technology initiatives.

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with Dr. Bradley Fuster, Provost of San Francisco Bay University (SFBU), about the innovative approaches the university is taking to disrupt traditional higher education. They discuss the concept of a 'challenger brand' in education, the importance of agility in decision-making, and the core pillars that guide student success at SFBU. Dr. Fuster shares insights on the Startup Scholars program, which supports aspiring entrepreneurs, and emphasizes the need for higher education institutions to embrace change and leverage AI responsibly. The conversation highlights SFBU's commitment to student-centered education and its efforts to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with instructional designer Anna Badua about the evolving field of instructional design. They discuss the diverse roles of instructional designers across various industries, the essential skills needed for success, and the importance of building relationships with subject matter experts. Anna emphasizes the significance of learning theory, production principles, and accessibility in instructional design, while also providing valuable advice for aspiring instructional designers. The conversation highlights the need for instructional designers to be proactive, curious, and learner-focused in their approach to course design.

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Dr. Joshua Fischer discuss the current state of higher education, emphasizing the need for change in curriculum design and the adoption of innovative teaching methods like micro learning. They explore the challenges faced by traditional educational models, the impact of technology and AI, and the importance of faculty engagement in creating meaningful learning experiences for students. The discussion highlights the necessity of adapting to the evolving educational landscape to better serve students' needs and prepare them for the future.

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with Nicholas Vick, Dean of Applied Science and Technology at Tallahassee State College. They discuss the college's commitment to workforce development, innovative degree offerings, and the importance of student engagement and retention strategies. Nick shares insights on the changing perceptions of work among students, the significance of faculty development, and the challenges and opportunities facing higher education in the future. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility, collaboration, and a focus on employability skills in preparing students for the workforce.