DECONSTRUCT LEARNING

In this episode of Deconstruct Learning hosted by Carol Damm, Professor Ben Godde, and his student Ali Bagirov discuss the insights that neuroscience has brought to how we learn. Ben describes the field of "neurodidactics, the impact of digital media on attention, and practical strategies like movement to enhance cognitive performance. By understanding the biological foundations of the brain in relation to human development, we can bridge the gap between theory and classroom practice.

In this episode of Deconstruct Learning, Carol Damm and Learning Designer Anish Singh pull back the curtain on how the Digital Education Unit at Constructor University uses generative AI—not as a replacement for educators, but as a creative and efficient assistant. Through their approach, they show how expert content is transformed into student-centered learning experiences without sacrificing accuracy, relevance, or academic integrity. From scenario-based activities to video scripts shaped in the instructor’s own voice, Carol and Anish discuss how AI can expand capacity, spark new ideas, and streamline the heavy lifting—while underscoring one essential truth: AI can't disseminate expertise without us.

Join host Carol Damm in this interview-style episode with Prof. Dr. Ulrich Kühnen as they explore the powerful impact of experiential learning in higher education. Discover how Kolb's four-stage experiential learning model transforms classroom teaching, from concrete experience through reflective observation to active experimentation. 

David Würdemann and Carol Damm talk with Dr. Jakob Fruchtmann and student Kamoliddin about how multimedia is changing education. From analog cameras to campervan lectures, they explore personal stories, teaching philosophies, and student-produced media. It’s a conversation about video, storytelling, and emotional connection in learning—with insight, inspiration, and a few good laughs.

In this episode of Deconstruct Learning, hosts David and Miguel explore the world of live-interactive teaching with Dr. Stanislav Chankov and student Rakeb Zewge. Together, they unpack how gamified elements—like polls and friendly competition—can energize the classroom, spark emotional engagement, and help students build deeper understanding by navigating instructor-designed challenges.

How does design thinking transform learning? In this episode of Deconstruct Learning, host Carol Damm is joined by Professor Christoph Lattemann, Dr. Audris Umel, and student Khalida Gara to explore the impact of creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving in a university course.

Stories captivate, entertain, and—most importantly—make learning stick. In this episode of Deconstruct Learning, Senior Media Producer David Würdemann and Learning Designer Alina Liamzina unpack the power of storytelling in education. From navigational dividers and lomography handbooks to trolley dilemmas and alien observers, they explore how narrative transforms abstract ideas into meaningful experiences. Drawing on insights from filmmakers like Peter Kerstan, Robert Rodriguez, and Werner Herzog, the conversation bridges cinema and pedagogy—showing how raw authenticity, emotional truth, and even surreal twists can spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and activate critical thinking in the classroom. But storytelling isn’t without its pitfalls. How do we ensure narratives serve learning goals, avoid bias, and balance engagement with academic rigor? David and Alina tackle these questions head-on, weaving in real-world examples from Constructor University’s Introduction to Philosophical Ethics course and beyond. Whether you’re an educator, a student, or simply curious about how stories shape the way we learn, this episode will challenge you to see storytelling not as a teaching accessory—but as the very heart of transformative education.  

In this episode of Deconstruct Learning, Carol Damm and Anish Singh discuss AI in higher education with Karen Smith-Stegen, Professor of Political Science. Karen shares how her students used AI tools in a crisis simulation of the Cuban Missile Crisis, highlighting successes, challenges, and student feedback. Carol and Anish also touch on their AI pilot project, showcasing how large language models are improving workflows and curriculum design.

Deconstruct Learning is a monthly podcast that takes a look at teaching and learning from the perspective of learning and media design professionals at Constructor University. In place of one or two regular hosts, we introduce the concept of "distributed" co-hosts, featuring a rotating lineup of the Digital Education Unit team members—each bringing their unique expertise and viewpoints to the episodes.