What's Your Problem?: An Incomparable Podcast about Current Issues in Distance Learning and Education

Is AI the end of learning or its ultimate salvation? On the season finale of "What's Your Problem?", we cut through the hype to explore why Artificial Intelligence is (and isn't) a problem in education. Hear real-world AI absurdity (like when your AI ends up emailing their AI), then dive deep with academic success coach Travis Michalak for a ground-level view of how students are actually using these tools – the good, the bad, and the unexpected. We unpack the tension between AI's promise of personalized learning and efficiency versus the real risks to academic integrity and critical thinking . Get the coach's perspective on guiding students away from over-reliance and fostering productive, ethical AI use. Plus, we tackle the strange case of the world's first AI actress in our Weird News segment and challenge our panel (and you!) with the game "Tool or Crutch?" – can you tell if student AI use is helping or hindering learning? Tune in for a nuanced discussion on navigating the future of human intelligence in the age of AI. All included music generated by Suno AI.

On this episode of "What's Your Problem?", we're pulling back the curtain on a field that's all around you, even if you don't know it exists: Instructional Design. Ever sat through a mind-numbing corporate training and wondered if there was a better way? Or followed a YouTube tutorial so perfect it made you feel like a genius? That's all instructional design. Join us as we bust the biggest myths in the field, proving it's about far more than just "pretty PowerPoints." We play a spirited game of "ID or Not ID?" to uncover examples of a hidden world of learning design. We tackle all the big topics in Instructional Design right in this must-listen episode! Tune in and you'll start seeing the invisible architecture of learning everywhere you look.

The "What's Your Problem?" podcast is back for another season! In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of digital accessibility in higher education and beyond. While one of our hosts is on a brief hiatus welcoming a new baby, we're kicking things off with a comprehensive look at the history of accessibility legislation, from the Americans with Disabilities Act to the latest WCAG standards. We'll share personal stories that highlight the human side of accessibility challenges and discuss common digital barriers, including frustrating PDFs and the evolution of social media accessibility. Plus, we have a big announcement about a new tool coming to Schoolcraft College to enhance the accessibility of our courses.

Join us for a thought-provoking deep dive into the world of assessment in online education. We wrap up the season with lively discussions about grading, gamification, and the growing influence of AI in classrooms. From the challenges of fostering real connections in virtual learning to exploring innovative (and sometimes controversial) nontraditional assessment methods, this finale is packed with insights and laughs. Plus, don't miss our game show-style segment where the team battles it out over the best new ways to evaluate learning. Whether you're an educator, student, or just curious about the future of learning, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of What's Your Problem?, we explore the joys and challenges of fall—whether it's deciding if pumpkins are overrated or apples deserve the fall crown. But we don't stop there! We dive into online education, group dynamics, and how collaboration can make or break any project (or escape room!). Plus, we tackle the age-old buttered cat paradox! Tune in for laughs, learning, and a few unexpected twists as we navigate the intersections of technology, teamwork, and fall nostalgia! 🍎🍂

Get ready to dive into the world of multimedia with Bernadette, Jason, and Kaylynn in the all-new season of What's Your Problem? After two seasons of repurposed web series content, we're kicking off this Season with fresh, exclusive podcast episodes that you won't want to miss. In this premiere, our dynamic trio tackles the endless possibilities and challenges of multimedia, sharing their expert tips, hilarious anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes insights. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about the multimedia landscape, this episode is packed with fun, knowledge, and a few surprises along the way. Tune in and join the conversation—because in the world of multimedia, there's always a new problem to solve! 🎧

Step into the intriguing world of academic integrity once again"What's Your Problem?" In or season 2 finale, we return to a popular topic that we have touched on in our first season's premiere, Cheating in Distance Learning. In this update, we will delve into the evolving landscape of ethical challenges in distance learning courses. We discuss how modern education tackles the age-old issue of academic dishonesty in innovative ways, so join us for a thought-provoking exploration as we uncover the latest strategies to uphold honesty and integrity in education. If you're curious about the future of academic ethics and learning, this episode is a must-listen!

Welcome to 'What's Your Problem,' your go-to podcast for navigating the challenges of distance learning and education. In this episode, we tackle the notorious issue of due dates and their impact on student success. Join us as we unveil strategies to optimize deadlines for both educators and learners. From rethinking traditional due dates to crafting effective late assignment policies, this episode offers actionable insights to enhance your teaching experience. Stay tuned as we explore the nuances of managing due dates and discover practical solutions to common dilemmas. Ready to revolutionize your approach to deadlines? Let's dive in to due dates!  

This episode explores the concept of open educational resources (OER) as an alternative to traditional textbooks. In this episode, we delve into how OER not only provide a cost-effective option for students but also contribute to enhancing their overall learning experience and academic success. This installment kicks off the final three episodes of our second season, which will be focusing on hot trends in distance learning and teaching. Joinus as we discuss the benefits and impact of incorporating OER in education.

Unlock the power of social presence in distance learning with these expert tips and tricks! Join us as we delve into the importance of fostering community, enhancing student engagement, and creating a sense of togetherness in online classrooms. From utilizing avatars for recognition to leveraging web conferencing for synchronous interactions, we'll explore practical strategies to amplify social presence. Plus, discover how incorporating personalized audio and video feedback can humanize online communication and strengthen student-teacher connections. Don't miss out on these actionable insights to elevate your online teaching experience!

In this insightful episode of What's Your Problem?, we delve into the crucial topic of accessibility in online education. Join Adam, Jason, and Kaylynn as they explore the significance of making educational content barrier-free for all students. From understanding accessibility standards to practical tips for implementation, we cover it all. Learn how to ensure your online courses meet accessibility requirements, including media resources like videos and podcasts, as well as documents such as presentations and PDFs. Discover valuable resources and tools to assist you in creating an inclusive learning environment. Don't miss out on this essential guide to improving accessibility in online education!

In this insightful episode of What's Your Problem, we delve into the strategies and best practices for engaging non-traditional students in higher education. With the evolving landscape of education, it's crucial for instructors and administrators to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by non-traditional students. Join us as we explore key insights, backed by research and expert opinions, to help educators foster a supportive learning environment for non-traditional students. From understanding the demographics to addressing the cost-benefit equation and providing personalized learning experiences, this episode offers practical advice for educators looking to enhance student engagement and success. Don't miss out on valuable tips to connect with your non-traditional students effectively!

Research has clearly shown us that, in order for feedback to be truly effective, it should be timely, specific, and personal – but it often seems impossible to do all three. In this episode, What's Your Problem? looks into some effective ways to provide quality feedback that is timely, specific, AND personal to students in distance learning courses. Is it even possible to do all three?

In this episode, we address a common challenge faced by educators in distance learning: lackluster online discussions. Michelle Randall, a full-time Accounting instructor, presents the problem of struggling to get students to actively participate and share their thoughts in online forums. Key Takeaways: Recognizing the differences between face-to-face and online discussions. Strategies for designing quality discussion prompts that encourage diverse perspectives. Setting clear expectations for student posts and responses. Instructor involvement tips for fostering a lively and meaningful online discussion. Join us as we provide solutions to enhance student engagement in asynchronous online discussions. Whether you're an educator or a student, these insights will help you navigate the unique challenges of online learning. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more educational content!

Welcome to Season 2 of "What's Your Problem?"! In this episode, we address a common complaint among educators: "My students don't read!" Join us as we dive into the reasons behind this issue and explore effective strategies to boost student engagement with assigned readings. 👍 If you found these tips helpful, don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe for more insightful discussions on education-related challenges! Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below. We love hearing from our listeners!

In this What's Your Problem? episode, we delve into the challenges faced by Distance Learning instructors and offer practical solutions to manage their workload effectively. From setting routines for handling student communications to leveraging rubrics for grading and anticipating student challenges, we provide actionable advice to streamline the teaching process. Join us as we discuss valuable strategies to enhance your Distance Learning teaching experience. If you found this information valuable, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful content!

Student resistance isn't about rebellion; it's often a response to the new learning environment. In this episode, we explore ways to identify and manage it effectively. We also share strategies to engage and motivate students, emphasizing the power of acknowledgment and light-hearted humor as well as how acknowledging students' efforts, whether positive or negative, can make a significant impact on their learning journey. As educators, it's essential to recognize that not all students will be receptive, and some may need specialized support. Learn when it's time to refer a student to other support services for their benefit and the class's overall success. Listen into this episode for valuable insights into addressing student resistance, making your online courses more engaging, and supporting student success. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our podcast for more educational content!

In this pilot episode of "What's Your Problem?" we delve into a pressing issue in the world of distance learning and education – cheating. Teaching in a remote environment presents unique challenges, and one of the most prevalent problems is academic dishonesty. Studies show that approximately 32-33 percent of students admit to cheating in both traditional and online courses. In this podcast, we explore three effective solutions to tackle this issue head-on. First, we discuss the importance of incorporating authentic assessments, such as discussions, projects, presentations, and journals, which require higher-level thinking and make cheating more difficult. Second, we emphasize the significance of designing tests with varying question types and short essay questions, reducing the chances of cheating. Finally, we highlight the importance of forming meaningful relationships with students, encouraging them to succeed by doing the work honestly. By implementing these strategies, you can help create a more honest and integrity-driven learning environment in your distance learning courses. Join us in this episode and discover the keys to preventing cheating effectively. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more valuable insights on distance learning and education!