The Teaching Table

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Embark on a transformative journey with Dr. Jeffrey Kohler as we tackle the mid-semester crescendo of higher education. Our enlightening discussion promises to arm you with the strategies you need to navigate midterm assessments while keeping your students engaged and on track. We're breaking down the walls between achieving learning outcomes and the daily grind of exams, providing you with the tools to weave formative feedback into the fabric of your teaching. As the pressure of midterms mounts, we open up about the shared stress pervading classrooms and the significance of cultivating a supportive atmosphere that taps into the wealth of campus resources dedicated to mental health.
In the thick of academic challenges, we tackle the ever-present issue of academic integrity head-on, shedding light on the sophisticated arsenal at our disposal. From lockdown browsers to the nuanced AI detection capabilities of Turnitin, we're guiding you through the intricacies of these tools to keep honesty at the forefront of student assessments. Dr. Kohler offers a wealth of knowledge on deciphering Turnitin reports and the importance of keeping an open dialogue with students, ensuring that the pursuit of integrity doesn't overshadow the pursuit of understanding. As the semester's gears shift into their final phase, we underscore the symbiotic relationship between faculty support and student success, sharing nuggets of wisdom on harnessing available resources and the necessity of maintaining the momentum as the academic year's finish line approaches.

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Dr. Seval Yildirim, UB's Vice Provost for Inclusive Excellence, joins us on the Teaching Table podcast to tackle a pressing question: How can we foster an inclusive environment that excites and engages everyone on campus? Discover her strategies for managing change and progress in equity, diversity, justice, and inclusion as she shares her personal journey and the importance of understanding a campus's unique culture. Dr. Yildirim talks about building collaborative alliances, addressing resistance, and the critical role of listening in understanding the diverse identities and needs within our communities.
Throughout the conversation, we explore what diversity, equity, and inclusion truly mean and how these concepts can be effectively implemented in educational settings. Dr. Yildirim emphasizes the importance of equitable outcomes for students and the need for faculty and staff to equip themselves with the right tools to create inclusive classrooms. With valuable insights into creating meaningful change from the ground up, this episode is essential for anyone committed to advancing educational excellence and social justice. Join us as we unpack the complexities of building a more inclusive university environment, one step at a time.

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Can experiential learning be the key to unlocking students' career potential? This episode, featuring Dr. Mara Huber, the newly appointed Senior Director for Instructional Innovation and Transformation at the University of Buffalo's Office of Curriculum Assessment and Teaching Transformation (CATT), aims to answer that question with a resounding yes. Dr. Huber brings a wealth of knowledge from her previous role with the UB Experiential Learning Network (ELN), underscoring the importance of hands-on learning in making students standout candidates for jobs, internships, and graduate programs. We explore the synergy between CATT and ELN, and introduce the PEARL framework—Prepare, Engage and Add Value, Reflect, and Leverage—to show how it enhances both student and faculty experiences through effective assessment and structured mentoring.
Wondering how these concepts translate into real-world impact? Tune in as we spotlight how UB's experiential learning projects are transforming education. From a technical writing course tackling environmental issues to an architectural study abroad program in Tanzania, we discuss how these hands-on projects enrich student learning and benefit partner organizations. Dr. Huber also highlights exciting cross-departmental initiatives at UB and offers insights into how the PEARL model can ensure students are comprehensively guided without overwhelming faculty. This episode is a must-listen for educators and students alike, poised to revolutionize your understanding of high-impact learning.

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Have you ever sat in a classroom, eyes glazed over, wondering if there's a better way to learn? Dr. Swathi Karamcheti, with her vibrant storytelling and rich experiences, is transforming the educational landscape, one engaging lecture at a time. In this episode, we welcome this passionate educator who reveals how she captures the imagination of her students in the realm of environment and sustainability at the University of Buffalo. Swathi's journey is a testament to her commitment to adapting and evolving her teaching craft, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard and inspired.
By sharing strategies to break the classroom silence and turn tentative voices into confident discussions, she illustrates the importance of experiential learning. Imagine stepping out of the textbook and into the real world, where field visits to businesses illuminate the abstract concepts of sustainability. Join us, and become part of a conversation that's not just about learning but about experiencing a more mindful way of living and educating.

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Explore innovative teaching practices in higher education with Dr. David Emmanuel Gray, an Associate Teaching Professor of Philosophy at the University at Buffalo. Discover how Dr. Gray elevates academic integrity and career competencies through unique methods like having students sign an academic integrity code. His emphasis on teamwork and writing skills prepares students for future careers, while his approach to experiential learning and community engagement enriches their academic experience. Gain insights into how diverse perspectives can shape discussions in your courses, fostering a vibrant learning environment.
Listen in as we spotlight the new Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) program at UB and its powerful community engagement projects. Learn about the Social Impact Fellows Program, where graduate students collaborate with local nonprofits to tackle organizational challenges, resulting in personal and professional growth. We'll also explore the evolution of education through the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle, alongside modern technological advancements and innovative teaching methods like specification (specs) grading. This episode delves into how these elements are reshaping the higher education landscape, ensuring students are well-equipped for the future.