In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the transition students face from college to careers, and the role faculty can play in supporting them. We cover the importance of early career advice, and the need to build in opportunities to help students explore career options early and often. Also, we cover structural changes needed in higher education to better integrate career readiness into curricula, and share practical tips for faculty to help students navigate their career paths.

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we cover the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing university-wide AI policies. We discuss varied disciplinary needs and the rapidly evolving nature of AI technology. The conversation turns to how adoption of AI in higher ed is similar to other tools like the internet and Wikipedia. Ultimately, the nuances across programs, and even classes, can make general AI policies challenging, and faculty should experiment what works for them while consulting industry professionals and alumni to ensure students are well-prepared for their future careers.

In Episode 012 of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the importance of gathering mid-semester feedback from students to improve teaching effectiveness. Learn how early feedback can prevent surprises in final evaluations and give you practical ways to implement changes based on student input. We talk about different methods of obtaining feedback, how to handle negative and positive responses, and the significance of making students feel heard.

In Episode 11 of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss how to have difficult conversations with students in the classroom. We share our experiences and strategies for addressing contentious topics, maintaining control, and promoting critical thinking and empathy among students. Listen in for actionable advice on how to make your classroom a space for productive and respectful dialogue.

Not sure if, or when, to use guest speakers in your classroom? In the 10th episode The Prof Talk Pod, we talk about the benefits of using guest speakers to support your teaching. We consider how guest speakers can enhance the learning experience, provide networking opportunities, and offer real-world perspectives that students can relate to. We give practical tips on how to select and vet guest speakers, prepare your students for their visit, and maximize the value of guest presentations.

Want to talk through an idea? Contact Becky at [email protected]

In Episode 009 of The Prof Talk Pod we explore the importance of Syllabus Day and how you can set the tone for a successful semester. We discuss some strategies we have used to create a compelling first day, including setting clear expectations, engaging students from the start, and the importance of sharing your teaching philosophy. Want to avoid "wasting" the first day of class? Listen in!

Need help or want to discuss an idea? Contact me at [email protected].

We love podcasts (obviously!). In this episode, we discuss how to use podcasts as a unique and effective student assignment. We talk about the benefits of podcast assignments, including their ability to increase student engagement, improve verbal communication skills, and offer a fresh alternative to traditional papers. Learn practical strategies for implementing podcasts in your classroom, how to structure the assignments, and ways to support students as they complete them.

Need help turning your assignment deliverable into a podcast? Contact Becky at [email protected].

In episode 007 of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the tendency of faculty to complain about and default to placing blame on students. We explore the negative consequences of this mindset and discuss the importance of self-reflection and reframing interactions with students. We share our personal experiences and insights on how to foster a more positive and effective teaching environment. Tune in to learn how to ditching the us vs. them mentality can improve connections with your students.

In Episode 006 of The Prof Talk Pod, Becky Achen and Galen Clavio dive into end-of-semester challenges—like dealing with late assignments and grade change requests. We share our own experiences and perspectives on keeping things fair, upholding academic standards, and still supporting student success. From clear policies to open communication (and knowing when to flex a little), you'll get some practical ideas to consider when you face these same challenges.

In episode five of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss course evaluations, outlining their significance and offering strategies for improving student response rates and quality. We cover the importance of shifting our perspectives on evaluations and viewing student evaluations as formative feedback rather than judgments. We also give practical tips for handling evaluations positively, maintaining authentic teaching styles, and using mid-term evaluations for feedback. This episode aims to help educators reduce adversarial feelings towards evaluations and use them to enhance their teaching.