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.

In Episode 004 of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss a common

In episode 003 of the Prof Talk Pod, Becky Achen and Galen Clavio discuss the intersections of ungrading, program assessment, and accreditation. As an extension of a previous episode, we step back and take a more program-level view of the topic. We explore whether a shift away from traditional grading towards a focus on learning processes can align with accreditation requirements. We discuss own experiences with program evaluation and unpack the challenges and opportunities ungrading has for program assessment.

We provide actionable steps for faculty who want to approach their administrators about integrating ungrading into their classes.

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Dr. Becky Achen and Dr. Galen Clavio discuss the concept of ungrading - what it is, how it works, and what challenges it brings to the classroom. They explore the complexities of introducing ungrading into different subjects and types of classes. The episode ends with some practical tips for integrating aspects of ungrading in your courses.

In the first episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Dr. Becky Achen, a professor at the University of Kansas and founder of The Engaged Professor, and Dr. Galen Clavio, professor and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education at Indiana University, dive into the challenges and opportunities generative AI presents in higher education. They discuss how AI impacts teaching, the importance of adjusting assignments to encourage genuine learning, and strategies to integrate AI as a supportive tool rather than viewing it as an enemy. They emphasize the need for innovative assessment methods, collaboration among educators, and adapting teaching practices to enhance student engagement in the age of generative AI.