Implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guest Speaker: Dr. Erin Scanlon
Friday September 23, 2022 at 10:00 AM
Dr. Scanlon (she/her) is an assistant professor in residence at the University Connecticut and a founding steering committee member of the American Physical Society’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Alliance (APS-IDEA). Her guest workshop will focus on concrete ways to implement UDL in STEM classes. Erin, a Michigan Tech graduate, holds a B.S. and M.S. in physics and a PhD in Developmental Education with an emphasis in developmental mathematics. In addition to teaching introductory physics courses, she researches ways to move the physics community toward being more diverse, equitable, inclusive, and socially just, with particular emphasis on changing social structures to support disabled people. Participants will be asked to do some pre-work (a short video and some teaching practice reflection). In person attendance is encouraged for this interactive workshop, but attendance via Zoom is an option, and the session will be recorded. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn practical tips from a UDL expert who knows Michigan Tech!
Register for this event here.
CTL Instructional Award: Kristin Brzeski and Melanie Kueber Watkins
Thursday September 29, 2022 at 3:45 PM
Brzeski’s award presentation: Integrating regional natural resource partners into lab and field based learning
Abstract: Dr. Kristin Brzeski will share her experiences developing and funding a field and wet-lab based component in her wildlife courses. In this presentation, Dr. Brzeski will emphasize how she integrates partnerships with the MI Department of Natural Resources (DNR) into her instruction, where students generate data that is presented directly to DNR biologists. Through this process, students get hands-on field and lab based training while actively participating in the process of translating research for applied management. Students also get tips and advice for advancing their careers with land-management organizations such as the DNR.
Watkins’ award presentation: Collaborative Classroom Cloud Computing
Abstract: Dr. Watkins will highlight her use of project-based learning to enhance student computing skills and job preparedness. Her approach involved integrating new concepts and skills into courses for 2D hydraulic modeling with lidar data, including Linux scripting.
Register for this event here.