This multidisciplinary series of conversations highlights original research and intentional reflection by scholars committed to high-quality teaching in higher education contexts. It provides instructors and scholars opportunities to showcase their research and discuss new ways to think about teaching. All events are free and open to the public. Events are hosted on Zoom and include live captions.
Events
Engaging Students through Participatory Design
Tuesday, November 19 | 12-1pm
This session will explore how instructors in any field can apply “participatory design” in their teaching. Participatory design is a teaching strategy that empowers students to co-create learning experiences. The strategy also allows instructors to meet students where they are, convey trust, and foster a convivial and engaged learning environment. Participants will leave with practical strategies to implement this pedagogy of participation.
Dr. Beck Tench is a Senior Researcher and Designer at Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Center for Digital Thriving and a graduate of UW’s Information School. Her research focuses on mitigating the harms of attention-driven digital culture.
Teaching Critical Literacy of AI
Thursday, February 6 | 12-1pm
Calvin Pollak, Assistant Teaching Professor of English at the University of Washington Seattle campus, will discuss how instructors can help students take a critical approach to using large language models (LLMs). By embracing an analytical (rather than punitive) approach to AI, instructors can enhance students’ communication skills, critical thinking skills, and professional development. Participants will leave this session with an understanding of key principles and sample activities and lessons.
Pollak’s teaching interests include technical communication, professionalization, and surveillance and privacy studies.
Fostering a Growth Mindset and Sense of Belonging
Tuesday, May 6 | 12-1pm
A team of UW professors will share their experiences with the Student Experience Project (SEP), an initiative that focuses on promoting a growth mindset and increasing students’ sense of belonging in the classroom.
Speakers:
Anaid Yerena is Associate Professor in the School of Urban Studies at the University of Washington Tacoma.
Joyce Dinglasan-Panlilio is Associate Professor of Chemistry in the Division of Science and Mathematics at the University of Washington Tacoma.
Emma J Rose is Professor in the Division of Culture, Arts and Communication at the University of Washington Tacoma and a recipient of the 2024 UW Distinguished Teaching Award.
Accommodations
The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. These events will include live-captioning services. If you need additional disability accommodations, please reach out to the UW Disability Services Office (DSO). When contacting DSO at dso@uw.edu, please share the event details listed in the event registration form.