Events

Writing and AI: An Educator’s Pragmatic Approach Moving Forward

Tues., Apr. 29, 2025, 3:05 – 4:35 p.m., via Zoom
Invited Speaker: Anna Mills, writing professor, author, speaker on AI and pedagogy
Click here to RSVP

If you are wondering how to reframe current writing assignments to preserve the space for students to develop their own voice, join professor Ann Mills on April 29. In this session, Anna will share examples of redesigned assignments and the framework behind them.

From Disconnection to Engagement: A Hands-on Experience with Perusall

Mon., Apr. 14, 2025. 12:20 – 1:10 p.m., Dobbins Special Event Room 202. Lunch is included.
Click here to RSVP

Are your students skipping readings, submitting AI-generated text without thinking, or staying disconnected in online discussions? Do expensive textbooks and long grading hours add to the challenge? Join Drs. David Dieteman and Qi Dunsworth for a hands-on experience with Perusall, a free, AI-supported social annotation tool that turns class preparation into interactive reading and writing.

Efficient Grading of In-person Tests

Fri., Jan. 31, 2025, 12:15 – 1:05 p.m., in person or via Zoom
Click here to RSVP

In this practical session, you will learn about three in-person learning assessment setups that utilize automated grading. Participants will also hear from experienced faculty, Dr. Darren Williams and Dr. Dustin Hemphill, about how these tools have helped them save time.

Thinking Creatively in the College Classroom

Fri., Oct. 18, 2024, 12:15 – 1:30 p.m. | Dobbins Special Event Room
Invited Speaker: Dr. Bryan Wang, Teaching Professor of Biology, Penn State Berks
Click here to RSVP by the end of Oct. 11.

What happens when we spark our students’ creativity to demonstrate, deepen, and extend their learning? In what new ways will they shine? In this session, with examples from lower- and upper-level science courses and interdomain classes, we will discuss the what, the why (why not), and the how of engaging students through creative activities and assignments.

Good AI, Bad AI: Changing Student Perception of AI Application

Tues., Sep. 17, 2024, 1:35 – 2:30 p.m., via Zoom
Invited Speaker: Dr. Subhadra Ganguli, Assistant Professor of Business, Penn State Lehigh Valley
Click here to RSVP

The presentation attempts to demonstrate how a simple assignment requiring the use of AI can change student perceptions of the tool for problem-solving and critical thinking. Bringing AI into the classroom versus excluding it can increase student awareness of the responsibilities associated with its use for career readiness, and the future job market. Real examples and instructor reflections from business classes will be shared.

AI for Educators

Feb. 20, 2024, 12:05 pm – 1:05 pm | Dobbins Special Event Room | Click here to RSVP by the end of Feb. 13 if you request lunch.
This hands-on session is designed for faculty members eager to leverage Al to bring teaching and engagement to a new level. You will experience the potential of Al through hands-on activities such as crafting lesson plans, creating interactive learning experiences, and even grading. Discover how to blend Al tools with traditional teaching techniques to design a more dynamic and responsive educational environment for students.

AI or Not, Improving Questioning Skills

Feb. 08, 2024, 12:05 pm – 1:05 pm | Burke 236 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Feb. 01 if you request lunch.
Unlike search engines, Al tools can act as conversation partners. As faculty, we could get a sense of the effort involved in completing our current homework assignments. For students, Al-assisted assignments can push them to learn the right questions to ask and how to ask them. In this session, participants will learn from examples across various disciplines and understand how to maintain academic integrity while enhancing learning. Whether you are looking to reinforce, refine, or create new approaches, this session offers ideas, guidance, and best practices for your classes.

AI: Challenges and Opportunities

Jan. 23, 2024, 12:05 pm – 1:05 pm | Burke 236 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Jan. 16 if you request lunch.
This lunch discussion offers a platform for faculty members to share insights, address common concerns, and demystify Al. Whether you’re intrigued by Al’s potential or cautious about its impact, this session is an opportunity to explore Al’s role in reshaping education, ethical implications, and how it intersects with traditional academic values. Engage with your colleagues in this interactive session to navigate the complexities and possibilities of Al together.

Using VR/AR to Support Learning Goals: Food for Thought

Nov. 14, 2023, 12:05 pm – 1:05 pm | Federal House 101 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Nov. 07 if you request lunch.
VR/AR technologies enable students to explore and interact with otherwise inaccessible or non-existent environments. Join us for a lunchtime panel discussion where we will focus on the strategic planning behind the technology. Discover how VR/AR effectively supports the learning goal of the course, and how to prepare students for an optimized learning experience. We hope you leave the session refueled with inspiration. Our panelists include Kyle Chalupczynski (MIS), Erin Dick (English), and Lisa Mangel (Biology).

Grading Load Management: Tools and Design Techniques

Oct. 18, 2023, 12:20 pm – 1:20 pm | Federal House 101 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Oct. 11 if you request lunch.
A well-managed grading load is essential to a productive academic life. In this lunch-and-discuss session, we explore practical approaches that help “trim” the non-productive tasks, freeing up your time to focus on giving valuable feedback crucial to student learning. Our faculty guest speakers Joshua Shaw (Philosophy) and Eric Robbins (Finance), will be sharing their insights, and we look forward to hearing your ideas as well.

Teaching First-year Students: Observations and Adaptations

Sept. 18, 2023, 12:20 pm – 1:20 pm | Federal House 101 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Sept. 11 if you request lunch.
Educators must address the evolving needs of students to support their academic success. This is particularly true for first-year students who spent most of their high school years during the pandemic. In this hour of lunch-and-discuss, we invite you to join faculty members Nancy Study (MET) and Tracy Halmi (Chemistry) to explore the observations and adaptations in this changing dynamic.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (non-tenure line)

August 31, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by August 24.
In this session, committee members will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is and what is not, what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (tenure-line)

August 29, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by August 22.
In this session, the panelists will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is (and is not), what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

2023 New Faculty Orientation

August 14 & 15, 2023 | AMIC 128 and 209

Register today for New Faculty Orientation! The 2023 new faculty orientation program will prepare you to hit the ground running. Last updated on July 19.

Grading Differently: A Structured Work Session

May 8, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by the end of May 1 if you request lunch.
Perhaps you have heard about the “ungrading” movement which means to re-center student learning in the assessment process (it does not mean students leave the course without a grade). Perhaps you’ve even been thinking of trying a new practice, such as contract, specifications, or peer grading, but don’t know where to start. In this work session, you will be given the time, space, resources, and coaching you need to develop an assignment for one or more of your upcoming classes.

Can we get students to be self-regulated learners? YES, we can!

Apr. 14, 2023 | Federal House 101 (map it) | RSVP by the end of Apr. 05 if you request lunch.
In this workshop, Dr. Chris Hakala will discuss the underlying principles of the science of learning, the factors that motivate students, metacognition, and how better leverage that to advantage your students in the classroom. You will be presented with real-world activities and examples drawn from actual classes that have leveraged the science of learning to increase motivation and metacognition. You should leave this event with ideas and strategies on how to navigate the challenges of teaching 21st-century learners by engaging them with evidence-informed practice and guidance to lead to better learning. And, by teaching our students about metacognition, we can help them become more self-regulated learners.

Grading Differently: An Open House for Faculty

Mar. 01, 2023 | REED 150 | Refreshments will be provided. Let us know if you plan to be there!
For better or for worse, ungrading is often equated with one or more of the following: no grades or self-grading, flexible submission deadlines, or allowing multiple attempts to turn in a homework assignment. Compared with traditional grading practices, upgrading sounds soft or simply lacking rigor. But are they true? Stop by for 15 minutes or the full 1.5 hours, and chat with experienced faculty members to find out. See faculty speakers here.

Trauma-informed Classrooms & Resilient Learners

Feb. 21, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by the end of Feb. 14 if you request lunch.
Adversity and stress have a profound impact on the developing brain and a student’s ability to learn. You are invited to join our host Dr. Melanie Hetzel-Riggin to learn more about trauma and ways educators, administrators, and school systems can establish Trauma-Informed classrooms and school culture; explore the importance of building relationships with students and practical strategies to promote engagement of the learning brain vs. the survival brain.

Teaching Triangle Connection Time!

Thurs., Nov. 10, 2022 | Burke 236, 9:00 – 10:30 am | RSVP by the end of Nov. 7
This is a special invitation to Teaching Triangle participants but welcomes all who are curious about the program. We will have a casual idea exchange of what we learned from the class each of us visited. Feel free to stop by for coffee and refreshments even if you may not be able to attend the full 1.5 hours.

Writing a Powerful Teaching Philosophy

Nov. 03, 2022 | Zoom | RSVP by the end of Nov. 2
In this workshop, participants will:
1. Identify personal beliefs about teaching & learning
2. Begin constructing a written framework around those beliefs
3. Consider how to be a reflective teacher

Grading Differently: Rethinking How and Why We Do Classroom Assessment

Oct. 20, 2022 | REED 114 | RSVP by the end of Oct. 18.
Have you ever wondered if there might be ways to make your grading more manageable, equitable, and/or meaningful? In this interactive workshop, you will explore emerging alternatives to conventional grading schema and hear experiences from Behrend faculty members.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (non-tenure line)

September 1, 2022 | REED 114 | RSVP by August 30.
In this session, committee members will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is (and is not), what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (tenure-line)

August 31, 2022 | Federal House Multipurpose Room 101 (new location!) | RSVP by August 29.
In this session, the panelists will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is (and is not), what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

Canvas Quick Start (hands-on lab)

August 9, 4:00 pm | AMIC 209
This highly interactive session is intended for new users to learn about the basics of Canvas in preparation for the fall semester. Part-time instructors are welcome!

Canvas Quick Start (hands-on lab)

August 4, 10:00 am | AMIC 209
This highly interactive hands-on session is intended for new users to learn about the basics of Canvas in preparation for the fall semester. Seats are limited to 6.

Maximizing the Value of Office Hours

April 5, 2022

“33 Simple Strategies for Faculty” is a week-by-week guide for teaching first-year and first-generation students. A group of faculty members started reading this little book this spring and applying selected strategies to their classes. You are invited to join the discussion on the strategies they have tried, and add your own to the conversation.

Teaching Inclusively

March 31, 2022
What should instructors consider to teach inclusively? What boundaries do we need to set up for ourselves? And what a compassionate institution would look like? Join the conversation with Dr. Daniela Gachago, Fulbright scholar working with Dr. Laura Cruz.

Promoting Student Success

March 01, 2022
“33 Simple Strategies for Faculty” is a week-by-week guide for teaching first-year and first-generation students. A group of faculty members started reading this little book this spring and applying selected strategies to their classes. You are invited to join the discussion on the strategies they have tried, and add your own to the conversation.

Writing and AI: An Educator’s Pragmatic Approach Moving Forward

Tues., Apr. 29, 2025, 3:05 - 4:35 p.m., via Zoom
Invited Speaker: Anna Mills, writing professor, author, speaker on AI and pedagogy
Click here to RSVP

If you are wondering how to reframe current writing assignments to preserve the space for students to develop their own voice, join professor Ann Mills on April 29. In this session, Anna will share examples of redesigned assignments and the framework behind them.

From Disconnection to Engagement: A Hands-on Experience with Perusall

Mon., Apr. 14, 2025. 12:20 - 1:10 p.m., Dobbins Special Event Room 202. Lunch is included.
Click here to RSVP

Are your students skipping readings, submitting AI-generated text without thinking, or staying disconnected in online discussions? Do expensive textbooks and long grading hours add to the challenge? Join Drs. David Dieteman and Qi Dunsworth for a hands-on experience with Perusall, a free, AI-supported social annotation tool that turns class preparation into interactive reading and writing.

Efficient Grading of In-person Tests

Fri., Jan. 31, 2025, 12:15 - 1:05 p.m., in person or via Zoom
Click here to RSVP

In this practical session, you will learn about three in-person learning assessment setups that utilize automated grading. Participants will also hear from experienced faculty, Dr. Darren Williams and Dr. Dustin Hemphill, about how these tools have helped them save time.

Thinking Creatively in the College Classroom

Fri., Oct. 18, 2024, 12:15 - 1:30 p.m. | Dobbins Special Event Room
Invited Speaker: Dr. Bryan Wang, Teaching Professor of Biology, Penn State Berks
Click here to RSVP by the end of Oct. 11.

What happens when we spark our students’ creativity to demonstrate, deepen, and extend their learning? In what new ways will they shine? In this session, with examples from lower- and upper-level science courses and interdomain classes, we will discuss the what, the why (why not), and the how of engaging students through creative activities and assignments.

Good AI, Bad AI: Changing Student Perception of AI Application

Tues., Sep. 17, 2024, 1:35 - 2:30 p.m., via Zoom
Invited Speaker: Dr. Subhadra Ganguli, Assistant Professor of Business, Penn State Lehigh Valley
Click here to RSVP

The presentation attempts to demonstrate how a simple assignment requiring the use of AI can change student perceptions of the tool for problem-solving and critical thinking. Bringing AI into the classroom versus excluding it can increase student awareness of the responsibilities associated with its use for career readiness, and the future job market. Real examples and instructor reflections from business classes will be shared.

AI for Educators

Feb. 20, 2024, 12:05 pm - 1:05 pm | Dobbins Special Event Room | Click here to RSVP by the end of Feb. 13 if you request lunch.
This hands-on session is designed for faculty members eager to leverage Al to bring teaching and engagement to a new level. You will experience the potential of Al through hands-on activities such as crafting lesson plans, creating interactive learning experiences, and even grading. Discover how to blend Al tools with traditional teaching techniques to design a more dynamic and responsive educational environment for students.

AI or Not, Improving Questioning Skills

Feb. 08, 2024, 12:05 pm - 1:05 pm | Burke 236 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Feb. 01 if you request lunch.
Unlike search engines, Al tools can act as conversation partners. As faculty, we could get a sense of the effort involved in completing our current homework assignments. For students, Al-assisted assignments can push them to learn the right questions to ask and how to ask them. In this session, participants will learn from examples across various disciplines and understand how to maintain academic integrity while enhancing learning. Whether you are looking to reinforce, refine, or create new approaches, this session offers ideas, guidance, and best practices for your classes.

AI: Challenges and Opportunities

Jan. 23, 2024, 12:05 pm - 1:05 pm | Burke 236 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Jan. 16 if you request lunch.
This lunch discussion offers a platform for faculty members to share insights, address common concerns, and demystify Al. Whether you're intrigued by Al's potential or cautious about its impact, this session is an opportunity to explore Al's role in reshaping education, ethical implications, and how it intersects with traditional academic values. Engage with your colleagues in this interactive session to navigate the complexities and possibilities of Al together.

Using VR/AR to Support Learning Goals: Food for Thought

Nov. 14, 2023, 12:05 pm - 1:05 pm | Federal House 101 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Nov. 07 if you request lunch.
VR/AR technologies enable students to explore and interact with otherwise inaccessible or non-existent environments. Join us for a lunchtime panel discussion where we will focus on the strategic planning behind the technology. Discover how VR/AR effectively supports the learning goal of the course, and how to prepare students for an optimized learning experience. We hope you leave the session refueled with inspiration. Our panelists include Kyle Chalupczynski (MIS), Erin Dick (English), and Lisa Mangel (Biology).

Grading Load Management: Tools and Design Techniques

Oct. 18, 2023, 12:20 pm - 1:20 pm | Federal House 101 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Oct. 11 if you request lunch.
A well-managed grading load is essential to a productive academic life. In this lunch-and-discuss session, we explore practical approaches that help "trim" the non-productive tasks, freeing up your time to focus on giving valuable feedback crucial to student learning. Our faculty guest speakers Joshua Shaw (Philosophy) and Eric Robbins (Finance), will be sharing their insights, and we look forward to hearing your ideas as well.

Teaching First-year Students: Observations and Adaptations

Sept. 18, 2023, 12:20 pm - 1:20 pm | Federal House 101 | Click here to RSVP by the end of Sept. 11 if you request lunch.
Educators must address the evolving needs of students to support their academic success. This is particularly true for first-year students who spent most of their high school years during the pandemic. In this hour of lunch-and-discuss, we invite you to join faculty members Nancy Study (MET) and Tracy Halmi (Chemistry) to explore the observations and adaptations in this changing dynamic.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (non-tenure line)

August 31, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by August 24.
In this session, committee members will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is and what is not, what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (tenure-line)

August 29, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by August 22.
In this session, the panelists will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is (and is not), what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

2023 New Faculty Orientation

August 14 & 15, 2023 | AMIC 128 and 209

Register today for New Faculty Orientation! The 2023 new faculty orientation program will prepare you to hit the ground running. Last updated on July 19.

Grading Differently: A Structured Work Session

May 8, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by the end of May 1 if you request lunch.
Perhaps you have heard about the "ungrading" movement which means to re-center student learning in the assessment process (it does not mean students leave the course without a grade). Perhaps you've even been thinking of trying a new practice, such as contract, specifications, or peer grading, but don't know where to start. In this work session, you will be given the time, space, resources, and coaching you need to develop an assignment for one or more of your upcoming classes.

Can we get students to be self-regulated learners? YES, we can!

Apr. 14, 2023 | Federal House 101 (map it) | RSVP by the end of Apr. 05 if you request lunch.
In this workshop, Dr. Chris Hakala will discuss the underlying principles of the science of learning, the factors that motivate students, metacognition, and how better leverage that to advantage your students in the classroom. You will be presented with real-world activities and examples drawn from actual classes that have leveraged the science of learning to increase motivation and metacognition. You should leave this event with ideas and strategies on how to navigate the challenges of teaching 21st-century learners by engaging them with evidence-informed practice and guidance to lead to better learning. And, by teaching our students about metacognition, we can help them become more self-regulated learners.

Grading Differently: An Open House for Faculty

Mar. 01, 2023 | REED 150 | Refreshments will be provided. Let us know if you plan to be there!
For better or for worse, ungrading is often equated with one or more of the following: no grades or self-grading, flexible submission deadlines, or allowing multiple attempts to turn in a homework assignment. Compared with traditional grading practices, upgrading sounds soft or simply lacking rigor. But are they true? Stop by for 15 minutes or the full 1.5 hours, and chat with experienced faculty members to find out. See faculty speakers here.

Trauma-informed Classrooms & Resilient Learners

Feb. 21, 2023 | Federal House 101 | RSVP by the end of Feb. 14 if you request lunch.
Adversity and stress have a profound impact on the developing brain and a student's ability to learn. You are invited to join our host Dr. Melanie Hetzel-Riggin to learn more about trauma and ways educators, administrators, and school systems can establish Trauma-Informed classrooms and school culture; explore the importance of building relationships with students and practical strategies to promote engagement of the learning brain vs. the survival brain.

Teaching Triangle Connection Time!

Thurs., Nov. 10, 2022 | Burke 236, 9:00 - 10:30 am | RSVP by the end of Nov. 7
This is a special invitation to Teaching Triangle participants but welcomes all who are curious about the program. We will have a casual idea exchange of what we learned from the class each of us visited. Feel free to stop by for coffee and refreshments even if you may not be able to attend the full 1.5 hours.

Writing a Powerful Teaching Philosophy

Nov. 03, 2022 | Zoom | RSVP by the end of Nov. 2
In this workshop, participants will:
1. Identify personal beliefs about teaching & learning
2. Begin constructing a written framework around those beliefs
3. Consider how to be a reflective teacher

Grading Differently: Rethinking How and Why We Do Classroom Assessment

Oct. 20, 2022 | REED 114 | RSVP by the end of Oct. 18.
Have you ever wondered if there might be ways to make your grading more manageable, equitable, and/or meaningful? In this interactive workshop, you will explore emerging alternatives to conventional grading schema and hear experiences from Behrend faculty members.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (non-tenure line)

September 1, 2022 | REED 114 | RSVP by August 30.
In this session, committee members will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is (and is not), what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

A Panel Discussion on Narrative Statement (tenure-line)

August 31, 2022 | Federal House Multipurpose Room 101 (new location!) | RSVP by August 29.
In this session, the panelists will discuss the characteristics of a good narrative statement, what it is (and is not), what to avoid, and what you should consider writing as part of the COVID-19 adjustments.

Canvas Quick Start (hands-on lab)

August 9, 4:00 pm | AMIC 209
This highly interactive session is intended for new users to learn about the basics of Canvas in preparation for the fall semester. Part-time instructors are welcome!

Canvas Quick Start (hands-on lab)

August 4, 10:00 am | AMIC 209
This highly interactive hands-on session is intended for new users to learn about the basics of Canvas in preparation for the fall semester. Seats are limited to 6.

Maximizing the Value of Office Hours

April 5, 2022

"33 Simple Strategies for Faculty" is a week-by-week guide for teaching first-year and first-generation students. A group of faculty members started reading this little book this spring and applying selected strategies to their classes. You are invited to join the discussion on the strategies they have tried, and add your own to the conversation.

Teaching Inclusively

March 31, 2022
What should instructors consider to teach inclusively? What boundaries do we need to set up for ourselves? And what a compassionate institution would look like? Join the conversation with Dr. Daniela Gachago, Fulbright scholar working with Dr. Laura Cruz.

Promoting Student Success

March 01, 2022
"33 Simple Strategies for Faculty" is a week-by-week guide for teaching first-year and first-generation students. A group of faculty members started reading this little book this spring and applying selected strategies to their classes. You are invited to join the discussion on the strategies they have tried, and add your own to the conversation.