Simon Says: Educate!

In Episode #32 of Simon Says: Educate!, Ronald and Thomas delve into the importance of using controversial literature to foster empathy, understanding, and inclusion on campus. They explore the power of storytelling in helping us connect with experiences different from our own, highlighting how a book can spark meaningful conversations around sensitive topics like race, identity, and sexuality. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue, where participants feel comfortable sharing their perspectives without fear of judgment. Ronald and Thomas discuss their efforts to form an EDI book club, underscoring the significance of personal interaction in promoting equity and inclusion. They believe that by coming together to discuss challenging topics, faculty and staff can develop a deeper understanding of their students' experiences and backgrounds, ultimately fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

In episode #31 of Simon Says: Educate!, the TLC Team introduces the CARES acronym, outlining the Clover Park Technical College Teaching and Learning Center's goals for Community of Care, Access, Retention and Completion, Employment, and Sustainability. The episode features discussions on strategies like building relationships, removing barriers to education, supporting diverse learners, and industry collaboration.

In Episode #30 of Simon Says: Educate!, Ronald introduces James and Austin, new members of the curriculum and instructional design team, who share insights on the transition to online education and designing for neurodiverse learners, while also discussing strategies to optimize online learning experiences, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and adapting instructional methods to meet diverse student needs. Subsequently, Ronald, James, and Austin delve into the application of instructional design principles, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and discuss the potential of AI in revolutionizing education, envisioning a future where personalized learning and critical thinking take center stage, concluding with all participants expressing their enthusiasm for future collaboration and innovation in education. Remember to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful discussions on teaching and learning!

In Episode #29 of Simon Says: Educate!, Geoff Cain interviews Dr. Meagan Sanders about the significant role of instructional design at the Alamo Colleges District, highlighting its importance in faculty support and student success. They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education, including the rapid pace of technological advancements and the necessity of developing AI policies within colleges. The conversation emphasizes the ethical deployment of AI tools to enhance educational accessibility and inclusivity, acknowledging the stress associated with staying current with these advancements. Moreover, they explore the potential of AI to personalize learning experiences and streamline administrative processes, reflecting on how these technologies are reshaping education.

Don't forget to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for the next episode for more enlightening discussions on the transformative journey.

In Episode #28 of Simon Says: Educate!, Ronald Lethcoe has an engaging reunion with Kevin Storm Jorgensen, his former classmate from the Learning Design and Technology master's program at San Diego State University. They delve into the transformative impact of AI in education, discussing the development of personalized AI "assistants" and the application of GPTs for enriching course content and student interactions. Jorgensen, who has carved a niche as a senior lecturer and curriculum designer, shares his insights on how AI reshapes traditional educational assignments and testing, emphasizing the innovative use of course-specific GPTs to field student inquiries and clarify class policies. This conversation sheds light on the dynamic state of AI in the education sector, underscoring the blend of excitement and skepticism among educators and students alike regarding the rapid technological advancements and their implications for teaching and learning strategies.

In Episode #27 of Simon Says: Educate!, Ronald Lethcoe, Kristin Copeland, and Geoffrey Cain engage in a comprehensive discussion about realigning their professional development track to better support faculty, incorporating gamified modules for more engaging learning experiences. They reflect on the effectiveness of book clubs, stress the importance of clear communication and transparency in implementing changes, and explore the potential of generative AI for faculty training and development. The episode concludes with announcements of new course openings and an invitation for attendees to participate in weekly meetings focused on AI policy development and professional development opportunities, while also emphasizing the institution's commitment to educating tomorrow's workforce in the evolving landscape of AI and technology.

Remember to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful discussions on teaching and learning!

In Episode #26 of Simon Says: Educate!, Geoff Cain interviews Sara Mickel from Peninsula College about the intersection of education and technology. Mickel discusses her accidental journey into instructional design and her current role as eLearning administrator. She emphasizes the importance of equity in teaching and learning, highlighting initiatives like the Four Connections for student engagement and the promotion of open educational resources. Mickel also explores the impact and potential of AI in the classroom, including innovative tools like math GPT and their integration into learning management systems like Canvas. The episode reflects a forward-thinking perspective on educational technology and its role in shaping modern learning environments.

Remember to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful discussions on teaching and learning!

In Episode #25 of Simon Says: Educate!, Ronald Lethcoe interviews Dion Alexander, a math instructor at Clover Park Technical College, about his innovative approach to education presented at the Lilly conference. The episode delves into directed self-placement (DSP) and co-requisite support, examining their effects on enhancing student success and engagement. Alexander provides insights into crafting effective DSP questions and discusses various cutting-edge teaching methods, including the application of AI and enhanced accessibility in education. This insightful conversation underscores the importance and intricacies of implementing such transformative educational strategies, offering valuable perspectives for educators.

Remember to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful discussions on teaching and learning!

In Episode 24 of Simon Says: Educate!, Ronald Lethcoe has a meaningful conversation with Jovan McCoy from the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Clover Park Technical College. They focus on 'Caring Conversations', designed to create a nurturing and inclusive campus environment. The episode explores the complexities and methods of fostering inclusive communication within academic settings. It emphasizes the value of diverse viewpoints and the importance of engaging various people. Jovan and Ronald also discuss the vital role of faculty and staff in building a community, advocating for collaboration across different departments. The episode highlights the need for adapting to cultural changes and prioritizing the well-being of all community members, thereby setting new standards for inclusivity and diversity in the educational landscape.

Remember to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful discussions on teaching and learning!

In Episode 23 of Simon Says: Educate!, Geoff Cain talks with Brett Christie, Ph.D., VP of Educational Innovation & Inclusivity at Alchemy, about AI's role in education. Christie, an expert in educational innovation, delves into AI's integration in learning environments. He highlights AI's capacity to personalize and refine teaching methods, its ability to boost student engagement, and its potential to alleviate faculty burnout. The episode sheds light on both the challenges and prospects AI introduces in the educational sector, emphasizing the necessity for teaching strategies that are both adaptive and inclusive, keeping pace with technological progress.

Remember to subscribe to Simon Says: Educate! on your favorite podcast platform for more insightful discussions on teaching and learning!