Prof Talk Pod

In this solo episode of the Prof Talk Pod, I share a simple end-of-semester practice to help instructors improve courses the next time they teach them: keep a running “notes to self” document for each class. It can be easy to forget what didn’t work, especially when end-of-term grading fatigue sets in. Spending 10 minutes now to record what worked, what didn’t, and what needs changing and setting calendar reminders to review the file before planning can help improve courses the next time around. She also suggests adding course eval comments and using AI tools to organize feedback. These documents increase in value when multiple faculty teach the same course.

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, we talk about faculty burnout, using the World Health Organization definition and reflecting on how chronic workplace stress shows up in teaching. We discuss the emotional labor of being “on” in class, the added mental load of supporting students’ mental health (especially in freshmen and sophomore courses), and how student issues often bleed into academic life and after-hours time. Becky and Katie emphasize setting communication boundaries that fit individual work styles, including clear email-response expectations and modeling professional behavior for students. We share warning signs of burnout like wanting to cancel class, disengagement, and disrupted sleep.

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss how to increase student participation in end-of-semester course evaluations and how to make the feedback more useful. We cover how moving evaluations online lowered response rates and created challenges for improving courses and for promotion or reappointment decisions, and discuss research on bias and the limits of using numerical scores as a primary performance metric. We talk about the value of qualitative, learning-focused feedback, recommend explaining to students why evaluations matter and how past feedback has shaped course design, and suggest adding targeted questions when allowed. Have ideas, questions, or feedback? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss what it means to create an inclusive syllabus and why it matters for student belonging and retention. Katie frames inclusive syllabi as designing course policies so students have equal access without needing to ask for special permission or feel singled out, especially around accommodations. Then, we unpack practical examples such as technology policies that can unintentionally reveal disabilities, rethinking attendance and “excused absences,” and building flexibility into late-work deadlines to reduce unnecessary emails while maintaining boundaries. We emphasize using community-based, respectful language (e.g., “we” and “you”), avoiding punitive tone, and setting clear parameters so only loud students don’t get rewarded. If you are ready to build more inclusive policies, reach out to university teaching centers and ask students for feedback.https://ctl.columbia.edu/resources-and-technology/resources/designing-inclusive-syllabus/

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Katie is back to tackle the topic of the course syllabus. Should it be a graphical, engaging roadmap or a traditional, standardized contract? Katie and I share what we think are the essential components of an effective syllabus and how to navigate adding university policies.  I share my strategy of writing the syllabus directly to the student to build buy-in, while Katie and I emphasize the critical rule: the syllabus is a contract, so only include policies you are willing to enforce. We break down how to structure your syllabus around three key questions of what, how, and when students will learn and why you must include university-required boilerplate content verbatim. Finally, we agree that including an explicit AI disclosure policy is critical right now to clearly communicate student expectations and force you to think critically about AI use in your classroom.

In this solo episode of the Prof Talk Pod, host Becky Achen shares how Generative AI is shifting the way I design active learning in the classroom.It’s no surprise that students have started leaning on ChatGPT to breeze through in-class activities. While the "quick answer" is tempting, our goal is to move them toward intentional, critical use of these tools. In this episode, you will learn about:A structured process for in-class activities that prioritizes human brainstorming and root-cause identification before bringing in technology.How to guide students to use ChatGPT, Gemini, or Copilot to fill specific knowledge gaps, rather than outsourcing the entire solution.Using LLMs to poke holes in human ideas and refine them before a final pitch.Why you should demonstrate how you use AI so students see the process in action.We don’t want our students to be "lazy AI users." To help get students ready for the workplace, scaffold AI use in your own courses, explain the "why" behind your constraints, and lead by example.

In this solo episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Becky discusses the importance of balancing student accountability with support, and offers actionable strategies to help students stay on track. From the hands-off approach to personalized check-ins, discover methods to foster a supportive learning environment while encouraging independence. Focused on retaining students and enhancing their success, Becky emphasizes the human aspect of teaching and shares tips for developing student skills in attendance, participation, and assignment completion.

Join us for part two of our discussion on attendance and engagement with Katie, focusing on practical strategies for managing excused absences and fostering student participation. We discuss university policies for attendance and share our personal methods for tracking attendance and ensuring meaningful student engagement. Whether it's using in-class activities, allowing drops, or navigating university policies, we cover actionable tips to help professors improve their classroom dynamics. Discover how to balance accountability with flexibility, and how to motivate students to attend and participate actively. If managing attendance has been a challenge for you, this episode offers valuable insights.

In the first episode of 2026, we discuss into one of the most challenging aspects of teaching: attendance. Listen in as we discuss how to balance accountability, the value of active learning, and the difference between attendance and engagement. We also explore institutional policies and share our own experiences and strategies for managing class attendance. Whether you're dealing with excused absences or trying to keep students engaged, the first episode in the 2-part topic offers valuable insights and shares some research on the importance of attendance.

Welcome to the Prof Talk Pod, brought to you by The Engaged Professor. In this episode, we focus on the positive moments from the past year in teaching. Join us as we discuss the joys of connecting with students, implementing video reflections, and utilizing generative AI for creating dynamic assessments and scenarios. Learn practical tips on how to reflect effectively, use AI in class content creation, and keep track of improvements for future courses.

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Katie Metz joins again to explore how to adapt to constant changes in subject matter. Learn how to integrate current events into your curriculum, set parameters for updates, and maintain credibility with your students. Whether you teach a rapidly evolving discipline or a more stable one, this episode offers valuable insights to keep your teaching relevant and engaging.

Welcome to Episode 032 of the Prof Talk Pod! In this episode, we talk about simple active learning strategies you can use in the classroom. Katie Metz joins us again to share her experience with strategies in more technical subjects like accounting and federal tax. Learn practical strategies that increase student engagement and hear about importance of iterative, low-stakes assessments. This episode offers insights into making class discussions more effective, how to utilize think-pair-share techniques, and tips for assessing the success of active learning activities. Whether you're teaching in a large or small class, undergraduate or graduate level, this episode is filled with actionable advice to enhance your teaching methods.

Welcome to another episode of the Prof Talk Pod, where we share tips and strategies to enhance teaching effectiveness. In this episode, we are joined by a guest host, Katie Metz. Katie is a teaching professor at Indiana University specializing in international tax and policy. She shares her insights on the TILT (Transparency in Learning and Teaching) method, discussing its origins, benefits, and practical application in the classroom. Learn about how TILT can improve student equity, clarity in assignments, and reduce faculty workload by providing clearer guidelines and expectations. This conversation is packed with actionable tips for improving your teaching methods and fostering a more transparent and supportive learning environment.https://www.tilthighered.com/

Episode 030 of the Prof Talk Pod is a solo show focused on the concept of scaffolding in education. Learn about the zone of proximal development from Lev Vygotsky and discover practical methods to support student learning through temporary structures. Scaffolding can enhance student motivation, create a positive learning environment, and aid in achieving educational goals. Get ideas for strategies to build students' knowledge and skills through smaller assignments, tip sheets, and feedback sessions. The early history of the scaffolding metaphor: Bernstein, Luria, Vygotsky, and beforehttps://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10749039.2019.1574306#d1e164Effective Teaching and Learning: scaffolding revisited⁠https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0305498960220103⁠

Welcome to episode 029 of the Prof Talk Pod, brought to you by The Engaged Professor. We discuss innovative ways to promote academic work beyond traditional peer-reviewed journals. Also, we explore the challenges and potential solutions for making research more accessible to a broader audience, including podcasting, Substack, and Reddit threads. If you've ever wanted to increase the impact of your work, this conversation is for you.

A year later, we revisit our thoughts on the approach to generative AI use in the classroom. Research on the impacts of generative AI use is mixed; some studies find it has negative effects on student thinking skills, while others find it can improve student learning. We discuss potential impacts on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while sharing ideas for approaching the topic in the classroom. Listen to gain insights into intentional AI use, the importance of clarity in assignments, and how to equip students for a technologically advanced job market. Research on Generative AI in Higher EdAbbas, M., Jam, F.A. & Khan, T.I. Is it harmful or helpful? Examining the causes and consequences of generative AI usage among university students. Int J Educ Technol High Educ , 21, 10 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-024-00444-7 Heung, Y. M. E., & Chiu, T. K. (2025). How ChatGPT impacts student engagement from a systematic review and meta-analysis study. Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, 8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.caeai.2025.100361Hasanein, A. M., & Sobaih, A. E. E. (2023). Drivers and Consequences of ChatGPT Use in Higher Education: Key Stakeholder Perspectives. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education, 13(11), 2599-2614. https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe13110181

Want to get some tips on delivering engaging lectures? In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss strategies for doing just that. We cover topics like opening mistakes that disengage students, breaking patterns to create 'aha' moments, and the importance of a powerful closing statement. Whether you're a new or experienced professor, this episode offers valuable insights on structuring your classes to make the most of your time and enhance student engagement.

In Episode 026, we talk about the need to stay engaged with industry, no matter your academic discipline. Discover actionable strategies for keeping your teaching relevant, building credibility with students, and connecting classroom content to real-world trends.Learn more about:Why industry engagement matters for all faculty, not just those in professional fieldsHow rapid changes (like AI and large language models) are reshaping what students need to knowPractical ways to keep current: trade journals, podcasts, social media, advisory boards, and moreThe challenges of balancing research, teaching, and industry knowledgeTips for integrating up-to-date examples and guest speakers into your courses

Let's face it, you can't always make it to every class. Maybe you have a conference, a sick kid, or an unexpected commitment elsewhere. In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we explore strategies for handling planned and unexpected class absences. From prerecording lectures to incorporating guest speakers, we give you practical approaches to ensure continuity and value in student learning. We also touch on the importance of flexibility, clear communication, and leveraging campus resources. Want to maintain course integrity and student engagement even when you can't be present in person? Listen in for ideas!

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we share essential tips for new college teachers as they approach their first day of class. Drawing from our own experiences and advice from colleagues, we discuss the importance of being authentic, managing first-day anxieties, and setting the tone for a successful semester. Listen in for ideas on how to feel comfortable on day one, navigate common early challenges, and build meaningful connections with your students. Perfect for newly minted professors, first-time lecturers and adjuncts, or anyone looking to refine their approach to the start of the academic year.

This special solo episode of The Prof Talk Pod focuses on the concept of backward design, a course construction method that focuses on student outcomes first. Becky talks about how to rethink and improve course designs for the upcoming fall semester. Learn about the key elements of backward design and how to apply them to create cohesive, outcome-driven courses. Whether you're a new faculty member with a blank slate or a veteran teacher re-evaluating your syllabus, this episode offers insights and resources to help you align your course activities and assessments with your learning objectives.Understanding by DesignTemplate for Using Backward DesignVanderbilt Template for Using Backward DesignUsing Backward Design to Plan Your CourseMcTighe, J., & Thomas, R. S. (2003). Backward design for forward action. Educational leadership, 60(5), 52-55.Simplified Course Planning Template

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we reflect on the academic year, discuss the importance of integrating personal experience into teaching, and highlight the need for disseminating research beyond traditional academic journals. We share our perspectives on the evolving needs of students and the importance of a flexible curriculum. Additionally, we discuss strategies for engaging with the interdisciplinary aspects of academia and staying active in one's field. Listen for practical advice and thoughtful reflection aimed at enhancing your teaching practices and improving academic collaboration.

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the evolving value proposition of higher education. The conversation touches on the historical context of universities, the impact of generative AI on higher ed, and the importance of aligning educational goals with student expectations. We explore the disconnect between faculty and administrative perspectives and explore how to better communicate the value of different degree programs. Links mentioned in the pod: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/openai-chatgpt-ai-cheating-education-college-students-school.htmlhttps://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/columns/higher-ed-gamma/2023/06/12/what-faculty-needs-know-about-history-american-higherwww.theengagedprofessor.com

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we continue our discussion about teaching Gen Z students in higher ed. We talk about the importance of listening to students to meet their needs, balancing the pressure to be perfect, and integrating work experiences into academic learning. We also explore how generative AI can support educators and the need for colleges to adapt to changing student needs.

Do you ever find yourself saying "kids these days"? If so, this episode is for you! We talk about a recent Chronicle of Higher Education report about teaching Gen Z students and share personal experiences and practical tips to connect with them in the classroom. We cover the importance of creating value in course content, addressing students' desire for understanding the 'why' behind their studies, and adapting to the changes brought by the digital age and the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the article here: Why Generation Z Gives These Professors Hope

Hosts Becky Achen and Galen Clavio discuss imposter syndrome in higher education. We talk about our personal experiences, professional insights, and actionable strategies for overcoming feelings of inadequacy. Whether you feel imposter syndrome is real or not, this episode will give you practical tips for building confidence in teaching, whether you are a new or experienced faculty member.

Have you heard about the new higher ed specific AI model launched by Anthropic last month? Claude for Education promises to be a model designed to do more than give students answers. In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we talk about how AI companies are actively engaging with institutions in higher ed and what that means for faculty, students, and administrators. If you are new to the genAI space or already spending half your day in ChatGPT, you will learn some actionable ways you can learn more about the platforms and educate yourself to help support your students. Claude for Educationhttps://chatgpt.com/students Teaching with AI Have questions or need help? Contact me at [email protected]

In Episode 16 of The Prof Talk Pod, we talk about the significance of faculty attendance at graduation ceremonies. We share common negative perceptions among faculty about attending these events and suggest a shift in mindset to understand the importance of attending graduation for students and the university community. Our discussions include personal anecdotes that highlight emotional connections formed during graduation, and the broader institutional implications of faculty engagement. Listen to hear more about why being present at graduation can enhance your sense of community, positively influence student experiences, and ultimately benefit the institution.

This episode of the Prof Talk Pod, hosted by Becky Achen and Galen Clavio, discusses the integration of generative AI tools to improve teaching methods in higher education. We highlight the hesitation and challenges faculty face in adopting these technologies and offer practical insights on how incorporating AI can save time, generate creative assignment ideas, and offer real-time feedback. We also share personal experiences using tools like ChatGPT for generating detailed and innovative assignments, and keeping course content relevant and up-to-date. MIT Sloan AI Tools: https://mitsloanedtech.mit.edu/ai/tools/Harvard Teach with Generative AI: https://www.harvard.edu/ai/teaching-resources/

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the transition students face from college to careers, and the role faculty can play in supporting them. We cover the importance of early career advice, and the need to build in opportunities to help students explore career options early and often. Also, we cover structural changes needed in higher education to better integrate career readiness into curricula, and share practical tips for faculty to help students navigate their career paths.

In this episode of The Prof Talk Pod, we cover the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing university-wide AI policies. We discuss varied disciplinary needs and the rapidly evolving nature of AI technology. The conversation turns to how adoption of AI in higher ed is similar to other tools like the internet and Wikipedia. Ultimately, the nuances across programs, and even classes, can make general AI policies challenging, and faculty should experiment what works for them while consulting industry professionals and alumni to ensure students are well-prepared for their future careers.

In Episode 012 of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the importance of gathering mid-semester feedback from students to improve teaching effectiveness. Learn how early feedback can prevent surprises in final evaluations and give you practical ways to implement changes based on student input. We talk about different methods of obtaining feedback, how to handle negative and positive responses, and the significance of making students feel heard.

In Episode 11 of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss how to have difficult conversations with students in the classroom. We share our experiences and strategies for addressing contentious topics, maintaining control, and promoting critical thinking and empathy among students. Listen in for actionable advice on how to make your classroom a space for productive and respectful dialogue.

Not sure if, or when, to use guest speakers in your classroom? In the 10th episode The Prof Talk Pod, we talk about the benefits of using guest speakers to support your teaching. We consider how guest speakers can enhance the learning experience, provide networking opportunities, and offer real-world perspectives that students can relate to. We give practical tips on how to select and vet guest speakers, prepare your students for their visit, and maximize the value of guest presentations. Want to talk through an idea? Contact Becky at [email protected]

In Episode 009 of The Prof Talk Pod we explore the importance of Syllabus Day and how you can set the tone for a successful semester. We discuss some strategies we have used to create a compelling first day, including setting clear expectations, engaging students from the start, and the importance of sharing your teaching philosophy. Want to avoid "wasting" the first day of class? Listen in! Need help or want to discuss an idea? Contact me at [email protected].

We love podcasts (obviously!). In this episode, we discuss how to use podcasts as a unique and effective student assignment. We talk about the benefits of podcast assignments, including their ability to increase student engagement, improve verbal communication skills, and offer a fresh alternative to traditional papers. Learn practical strategies for implementing podcasts in your classroom, how to structure the assignments, and ways to support students as they complete them. Need help turning your assignment deliverable into a podcast? Contact Becky at [email protected].

In episode 007 of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss the tendency of faculty to complain about and default to placing blame on students. We explore the negative consequences of this mindset and discuss the importance of self-reflection and reframing interactions with students. We share our personal experiences and insights on how to foster a more positive and effective teaching environment. Tune in to learn how to ditching the us vs. them mentality can improve connections with your students.

In Episode 006 of The Prof Talk Pod, Becky Achen and Galen Clavio dive into end-of-semester challenges—like dealing with late assignments and grade change requests. We share our own experiences and perspectives on keeping things fair, upholding academic standards, and still supporting student success. From clear policies to open communication (and knowing when to flex a little), you'll get some practical ideas to consider when you face these same challenges.

In episode five of the Prof Talk Pod, we discuss course evaluations, outlining their significance and offering strategies for improving student response rates and quality. We cover the importance of shifting our perspectives on evaluations and viewing student evaluations as formative feedback rather than judgments. We also give practical tips for handling evaluations positively, maintaining authentic teaching styles, and using mid-term evaluations for feedback. This episode aims to help educators reduce adversarial feelings towards evaluations and use them to enhance their teaching.

In Episode 004 of The Prof Talk Pod, we discuss a common challenge faced by faculty and administrators alike - how to create genuine buy-in among students. Through reflections on our own experiences and conversations with colleagues, we explain the importance of sparking interest and building trust with students early in the semester. You will learn simple strategies for fostering a classroom environment where students feel valued, motivated, and engaged. Tune in to learn how to bring purpose and connection to your teaching, even when faced with large class sizes, and hear why building meaningful relationships with students can transform both their learning experience and your teaching practice.

In episode 003 of the Prof Talk Pod, Becky Achen and Galen Clavio discuss the intersections of ungrading, program assessment, and accreditation. As an extension of a previous episode, we step back and take a more program-level view of the topic. We explore whether a shift away from traditional grading towards a focus on learning processes can align with accreditation requirements. We discuss own experiences with program evaluation and unpack the challenges and opportunities ungrading has for program assessment. We provide actionable steps for faculty who want to approach their administrators about integrating ungrading into their classes.

In this episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Dr. Becky Achen and Dr. Galen Clavio discuss the concept of ungrading - what it is, how it works, and what challenges it brings to the classroom. They explore the complexities of introducing ungrading into different subjects and types of classes. The episode ends with some practical tips for integrating aspects of ungrading in your courses. Interested in reading more? Check out Ungrading: Why Rating Students Undermines Learning (and What to Do Instead) edited by Susan Blum. Have questions or need help? Email Becky at [email protected]

In the first episode of the Prof Talk Pod, Dr. Becky Achen, a professor at the University of Kansas and founder of The Engaged Professor, and Dr. Galen Clavio, professor and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education at Indiana University, dive into the challenges and opportunities generative AI presents in higher education. They discuss how AI impacts teaching, the importance of adjusting assignments to encourage genuine learning, and strategies to integrate AI as a supportive tool rather than viewing it as an enemy. They emphasize the need for innovative assessment methods, collaboration among educators, and adapting teaching practices to enhance student engagement in the age of generative AI.