Thursday, October 13 at 3:45 PM
The Jackson Center for Teaching and Learning will recognize Loredana Valenzano-Slough (Chemistry) as the recipient of the CTL Instructional Award for Large Class Teaching on Thursday, October 13 at 3:45 in the Library East Reading Room. She was selected for the award after her nomination via the Deans’ Teaching Showcase during the spring 2022 semester.
Valenzano-Slough’s presentation: Physical Chemistry is Dead… Long Live Physical Chemistry!
Abstract: As the name suggests, Physical Chemistry (PChem) is heavily dependent on physics, which is heavily dependent on math and problem-solving reasoning. In time, it became evident that students struggling the most in PChem were those lacking practice in math. To help the students, I started to spend some of the PChem class time in “math review sessions” to give them practical suggestions on how to approach and use the necessary mathematical tools (multivariable derivatives, power series, and integrals). I soon realized though, that this was not enough and that they needed more first-hand practice on the actual use of such tools and their applications toward solving PChem problems. For this reason, I designed a “Math for (applications) in PChem I” online 1-credit course which exposes students to those mathematical concepts used in PChem but concentrate on their actual applications and problem-solving techniques.
Please plan to join us in recognizing Loredana Valenzano-Slough by registering for the event.
Tuesday October 18, 2022 at 12:00 noon
Now that Michigan Tech has a campus-wide iClicker Cloud license we’re seeing a large increase in adoption by instructors this fall based on early usage data. iClicker polling is a great way to engage your students in class, and increase learning and retention. How can you enhance your pedagogical strategies for iClicker polling in your classroom? We are curious to know how you use iClicker polling?
Join your colleagues and the CTL team on Tuesday, October 18 as we revive our lunch and learn format with an iClicker Showcase. We’re looking for up to five instructors to share one of their favorite iClicker polling questions, review the pedagogy supporting it, and discuss the impact on learning that they’ve observed.
iClicker instructors are encouraged to apply to participate in the showcase. Applications are due by October 7! You’ll be asked to submit a single slide polling question and a brief description of how you deliver the question in your class. Submissions will be reviewed for uniqueness (including use of the various question types: short answer, target question, multiple answer, numerical, multiple choice) as well as adaptability for other instructors. In addition to recognition as an iClicker expert, featured showcase instructors will also receive a gift card.
Whether you’re new to iClicker this semester, a power user, or just want to learn ways to improve and expand your teaching practices, make plans to register and attend the CTL iClicker Showcase [https://mtu.libcal.com/event/9698685]. All registered attendees will have lunch provided. As always, instructors who need assistance getting started with iClicker or have specific technical questions can contact the CTL for assistance (elearning@mtu.edu, 487-3000).
Tuesday October 27, 2022 at 3:45 PM
The Jackson Center for Teaching and Learning will recognize Kristin Brzeski (CFRES) as co-recipient of the CTL Instructional Award for Innovative or Out of Class Teaching on Thursday, October 27 at 3:45pm. Kristin was selected for the award after being nominated via the Deans’ Teaching Showcase during the spring 2022 semester.
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.
To register for this event, please click here.
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.