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By Kristal Kinloch-Taylor

On March 14, the Center for Faculty Development hosted Mid-semester Magic, an event specifically designed to provide innovative strategies and approaches for enhancing teaching practices. The online sessions offered a variety of topics designed to inspire and empower faculty, giving them the opportunity to network and explore ways to make small changes for big impact.

Shana Pribesh, Professor and Chair of the Department of STEM Education & Professional Studies kicked off the event at 10:00 a.m. with "The Power of Connection.” The interactive session began with introductions, allowing attendees to immediately connect with each other and discover each other's areas of expertise. This initial interaction facilitated connections and collaboration among participants. Faculty members also shared various methods they use to connect with their students outside of traditional discussion boards.

Kristal Kinloch-Taylor, Educational Program Developer at the Center for Faculty Development, then led a discussion on "Teaching with Technology. Using inclusive and high-impact practices as a framework for discussion, Kinloch-Taylor devoted the session to exploring three key resources: Google Sites, FlipGrid, and Microsoft Live. Real-time captioning was highlighted as a feature that brings presentations to life, and PowerPoint Live allows students to access lectures via a link or QR code on their mobile devices, available in 60 different languages.

Alison Lietzenmayer, Master Lecturer in the Department of Communication & Theater Arts and Director of Senior Experience & Internships, facilitated "Keeping it R.E.A.L - Reflective, Experiential, Authentic Learning" and offered strategies to encourage students to make connections between their experiences and personal goals through reflection. The session emphasized the incorporation of e-portfolio assignments to help students set career goals, along with presentation prompts designed to encourage students to envision themselves as future employees in their chosen fields.

Nathan Holland, a Lecturer in the Department of Engineering Foundations concluded the afternoon with "Compassionate Learning: Igniting Student Engagement.” Holland provided strategies for implementing compassionate learning approaches in the classroom, making self-reflection a central aspect of the session. Participants were given a 10-question compassionate learning survey to help faculty reflect on their current practices. The survey was well received and provided participants with a valuable tool to evaluate and improve their teaching methods.

The next Mid-Semester Magic event is scheduled for Fall 2024 where more innovative strategies for student success will be explored. ��

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