The Learning Curve presented by the Academic Commons

Teaching with AI with Dr. Travis Pollen

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This episode features Dr. Travis Pollen discussing integrating AI into the classroom. Emphasizing intentional design, transparency, and continuous reflection, supported by both formal research and informal student feedback. This episode also highlights the importance of developing AI literacy and navigating the challenges of maintaining academic integrity in an evolving technological landscape.

 

Guest: Travis Pollen, PhD

  • Role: Assistant Professor, College of Rehabilitation Sciences
  • Expertise: Health and rehabilitation sciences.

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    Quote from the Episode:


    "So I want students to use it [AI]. I want them to use it well and to develop that barometer for what is appropriate and what is shortcutting, so to speak."  - Travis Pollen, PhD 


    Getting Started:

    • Try different generative AI tools yourself to understand their strengths and limitations allowing you to better guide student use of them.  
    • Clearly define how students should interact with AI in your classroom to maintain academic integrity.
    • Utilize student feedback regularly through structured surveys/reflections and informal check-ins throughout the semester rather than just at the end.
    • Contact us to talk about intentional use of AI in the classroom.

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      Terms to Know:

      The terms below are mentioned in the episode, and for context and clarity, we've provided brief definitions of potentially unfamiliar terms you may hear.

      • Artificial Intelligence (AI): an umbrella term for any theory, computer system, or software developed to allow machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
      • SoTL (Scholarship of Teaching and Learning): Systematic and methodological inquiry to research the impact of teaching practices and learning experiences.
      • AI Literacy: An understanding of how AI works and critically evaluates its application to teaching, scholarship, and maintain vigilance for bias, misuse, and misapplication of the tools.

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        Selected Resources:


        The Learning Curve team curated this list based on university resources or guest recommendations.

        • AI for Educators: From Basics to Best Practices – Academic Commons Self-Paced Module
        • Artificial Intelligence - Research Guides at Thomas Jefferson University
        • Dekerlegand, R., Bell, A., Clancy, M. J., Pletcher, E. R., & Pollen, T. (2025). Generative Artificial Intelligence in Education: Insights from Rehabilitation Sciences Students. Education Sciences, 15(3), 380-. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15030380
        • Bowen, J. A., & Watson, C. E. (2024). Teaching with AI : a practical guide to a new era of human learning. Johns Hopkins University Press.
        • Academic Commons Upcoming Workshops and Events
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          The Learning Curve presented by the Academic CommonsBy The Academic Commons