EdUp Curriculum

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Dr. Nicole Poff interviews Dr. Kristina Powers , an expert in institutional effectiveness. They discuss Christina's journey into the field, the development of the Powers Index, and its implications for higher education institutions. The conversation explores the importance of data alignment, curriculum's role in student learning, and the challenges institut...

In this conversation, Dr. Nicole Poff and Dr. Chris Morett discuss the complexities of campus planning and space utilization in higher education. They explore the challenges of scheduling, the importance of classroom design, and how institutional priorities can be revealed through space utilization. Chris emphasizes the need for ongoing advocacy for better classroom spaces, the role of faculty in...

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with Holly Owens , an instructional designer with experience across higher ed, government, and corporations like Amazon and Mars. They discuss the stark differences between corporate and academic instructional design, why accessibility should be a top priority, and how the field has evolved since the pandemic. Holly shares insights on the...

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host  Nicole Poff  engages with a team from  West Chester University of Pennsylvania  to discuss an innovative initiative that brings student voices into the classroom through pedagogical partnerships. The program allows students to observe classes and provide feedback to faculty, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that enhances teaching and learning....

In this engaging conversation,  Nicole Poff  and  John Gartin  discuss innovative strategies in career services at  Northern Arizona University . John shares his experiences in scaling career development efforts, emphasizing the importance of faculty partnerships and the need to adapt to the changing landscape of higher education. They explore the challenges of providing personalized support to st...

In this conversation,  Nicole Poff  and  Kate Belknap  discuss the transformative efforts at  Colorado Mesa University  to enhance faculty development and teaching culture. They explore the challenges faced by faculty in higher education, the importance of pedagogical training, and the initiatives implemented to foster a supportive teaching environment. The conversation highlights the significance...

In this conversation,  Nicole Poff  and  David Birdsell  discuss the transformative initiatives at Kean University, focusing on community engagement, faculty development, and the importance of supporting first-generation college students. They explore how the university is adapting to meet the needs of its community while enhancing its research capabilities and fostering a culture of collaboration...

In this conversation, Benjamin Rifkin , Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fairleigh Dickinson University , discusses his journey in higher education, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, curriculum design, and the need for a student-first approach. He highlights the challenges in faculty preparation and the necessity of aligning educational practices with the skills st...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff interviews Slava Yurchenkov , the manager of Instructional Design at University of Massachusetts Amherst. Slava shares his journey from Russia to the U.S. and discusses the significant changes he has implemented in his role. He emphasizes the importance of strategy, collaboration, and building trust within his team and with faculty. Slava outlines the various proj...

In this episode, Nicole Poff interviews Olena Zhadko , the former Senior Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Lehman College and current Interim University Director at The City University of New York . They discuss the various functions of the center, including support for faculty and student success, the importance of collaboration, and the innovative approaches taken to enhance th...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Rex Holiday explore the evolving landscape of EdTech and instructional design. Rex shares his journey from wireless telecom to developing effective training solutions, emphasizing the importance of needs analysis, rapid prototyping, and designing for application rather than mere information transfer. They discuss common misconceptions in training approaches, t...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff interviews Dr. Christy Kirk , the first female president of Concordia University Texas . Dr. Kirk shares her journey in higher education, her commitment to community engagement, and the importance of adaptability in serving students' needs. She discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in education, the significance of liberal arts in career prepa...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Dr. Jay Roberts discuss the unique model of Warren Wilson College , a federally designated work college in North Carolina. They explore the impact of Hurricane Helene on the campus, the college's work program that requires every student to work, and how this model fosters leadership and real-world skills. They also touch on the importance of inclusivity, the r...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff speaks with John Miles , Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Reinhardt University , about the significant curriculum overhaul at the university. They discuss the importance of faculty involvement, the creation of student pathways, and the accessibility of minors and courses. John emphasizes the need for a caring educational environment that supports...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and William Donoher explore the transformative potential of AI in higher education. They discuss the importance of shifting mindsets to embrace AI as a tool for student success rather than a threat. The conversation highlights various applications of AI, including personalized learning, engagement strategies, and the need for institutions to adopt a strategic appr...

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with Dr. Bradley Fuster , Provost of San Francisco Bay University (SFBU) , about the innovative approaches the university is taking to disrupt traditional higher education. They discuss the concept of a 'challenger brand' in education, the importance of agility in decision-making, and the core pillars that guide student success at SFBU. D...

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with instructional designer Anna Badua about the evolving field of instructional design. They discuss the diverse roles of instructional designers across various industries, the essential skills needed for success, and the importance of building relationships with subject matter experts. Anna emphasizes the significance of learning theory...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Dr. Joshua Fischer discuss the current state of higher education, emphasizing the need for change in curriculum design and the adoption of innovative teaching methods like micro learning. They explore the challenges faced by traditional educational models, the impact of technology and AI, and the importance of faculty engagement in creating meaningful learning...

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff speaks with Nicholas Vick , Dean of Applied Science and Technology at Tallahassee State College . They discuss the college's commitment to workforce development, innovative degree offerings, and the importance of student engagement and retention strategies. Nick shares insights on the changing perceptions of work among students, the significance...

In this episode, Nicole Poff interviews Dr. Jay Keehn , who shares his extensive experience in higher education and student services. They discuss the importance of embedding support services into the curriculum to enhance student success and retention. Dr. Keehn emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that integrates academic and student affairs, breaking down silos that often hinder student...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff and Dr. Anzar Khaliq discuss the innovative approaches being taken at San Francisco Bay University to reshape higher education. Dr. Khaliq shares his unique journey from experimental physicist to higher education leader, emphasizing the importance of rethinking traditional structures and curricula. The discussion covers the university's agile model, the transforma...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff interviews Lauren Fern , a faculty member at the University of Montana , about her mission to make mathematics accessible and engaging for all students. They discuss the barriers students face in math education, the innovative math pathways and co-requisite remediation programs implemented at the University of Montana, and the overhaul of the math placement proces...

In this engaging conversation, Nicole Poff sits down with Michael Forder , Director of Learning Experience and Architecture at Virginia Commonwealth University , to explore innovative strategies for enhancing student experiences through curriculum design and data-driven decision-making. Michael shares insights on the introduction of wellness days, the importance of viewing classrooms as experiment...

In this episode of EdUp Curriculum, host Nicole Poff interviews Kevin Sanders , who shares his unique background as a professional musician and his journey into leadership in higher education. The conversation explores the nature of change in academia, the importance of collaboration and trust between faculty and administration, and effective strategies for guiding curriculum development. Kevin em...

In this conversation, Nicole Poff sits down with Dr. Erinn Heyman to explore the principles of neuro-connected learning and its transformative impact on education. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how the brain works in relation to learning, debunking common myths, and exploring effective teaching strategies. The discussion covers the role of emotions, active learning techniques, and...