A Curious Learning Curve

Personalizing Online Teaching: Insights with Chad Mano

Join host Jenn Grewe in this episode of A Curious Learning Curve as she talks with Chad Mano from Utah State University’s newly renamed School of Computing. The episode explores how weekly video announcements can strengthen instructor presence, build connection, and increase engagement in online courses. Discover why effective announcements should go beyond course reminders to include timely, personal touches that help humanize the instructor and reduce student isolation. Chad shares practical strategies for keeping messages brief, organized, and authentic, while also using them to encourage students through challenging content. He also highlights how Canvas analytics and My Media tools can help instructors track engagement, making this episode a valuable listen for educators looking to create more connected and supportive online learning experiences.

From Slides to Simulations: Innovating Teaching Through Animation

Innovative Uses of AI for Engaging Online Education: A Conversation with Bob Mills. In this episode of 'A Curious Learning Curve,' host Jenn Grewe discusses with Bob Mills, a faculty member from the Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University, innovative strategies to engage students in online education. Bob shares insights into the transformation of his department under Chris Corcoran's leadership and how they focus on improving student experiences. The conversation delves into the use of AI and personalized instructional animations to enhance learning. Additionally, they discuss practical steps for educators to create engaging animations using AI tools, aiming to improve students' performance and motivation. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:28 Meet Bob Mills: Faculty Insights 01:04 Innovative Teaching Methods 05:55 The Power of Instructional Animations 14:24 Implementing AI in Education 19:36 Conclusion and Future Insights 21:00 Bonus: Immersive Simulation Experience

Leveraging Video: Enhancing Grading Feedback and Announcements in Online Teaching

In this episode, host Jenn Grewe welcomes Kelli Munns, a professor from the ITLS department at Utah State University, to discuss innovative strategies for increasing instructor presence in online classes. Kelly shares insights on using Canvas Speed Grader to provide personalized video feedback, making the feedback process more engaging and time efficient. The conversation also touches on the importance of regular video announcements to maintain student connection and the creative ways to keep students engaged. The episode wraps up with Kelli sharing a surprising personal anecdote about being kicked out of Ireland.