Sage College Publishing Podcast

Krisstal Clayton: Teaching with Heart, Empowering Students, and Unpacking Introductory Psychology

Krisstal D. Clayton, a clinical professor, director of undergraduate programs, and associate chair of academics for the Department of Psychology at the University of North Texas, recently sat down with PsychSessions' Garth Neufeld for an in-depth discussion of all things teaching psychology. She discusses how heavy workloads, commuting, work, and caregiving contribute to students' AI use. She also argues for explicitly teaching AI literacy, its limits, and responsible use.  Krisstal describes building connection and engagement in a 210-student lecture hall through weekly team activities, team exams, and gamified, real-world assignments (including an ultra-processed “Texas State Fair food” concept-mapping activity). She explains her approach to required reading, attendance-based course design, and Sage Vantage quizzes to track learning and spot irregularities.  She also discusses becoming first author on a new edition of an Intro Psych textbook (Essentials of Psychology, Second Edition [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/essentials-of-psychology-2-287675]), what pedagogical features they kept (“What’s Your Prediction?” and applied examples), and updates she “went hard” on, including a methods-focused chapter, mindfulness and wellness content, and topics driven by student needs (sleep, social media/mental health, vaping, neurodiversity). About the Author Krisstal D. Clayton is a clinical professor and director of undergraduate programs in the Department of Psychology at the University of North Texas. Known for her engaging teaching style, she uses gamification, storytelling, and real-world examples to bring psychology to life. Her research often includes student collaboration, with a focus on how higher education shapes perspectives.  Outside of academia, Krisstal is a yoga enthusiast, vinyl collector, NPR podcast fan, and proud dog mom to Arya and Phoebe. She’s also a music lover who creates playlists for her students and loses her voice at concerts—Stevie Nicks forever! This episode brought to you by Sage Vantage. Learn more at collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage].

Tips for Teaching in Today's Political Science Classroom

Curious how others are teaching Political Science in today’s divisive environment? Three experienced instructors discuss real strategies for turning today's polarization and misinformation into opportunities for richer, more effective learning. Summary Teaching political science in today’s dynamic and polarized environment presents unique challenges and opportunities. In this roundtable discussion, three distinguished Sage authors explore strategies for navigating these complexities. From addressing misinformation to fostering respectful dialogue, this episode offers practical insights for educators and students alike. Whether you’re an instructor looking to inspire critical thinking or a student eager to engage meaningfully with the political landscape, this conversation provides tools to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing field.  What We Talk About Here’s what’s covered in the episode: * Creating Respectful Classroom Environments: * Establishing ground rules and encouraging diverse perspectives. * Addressing the politics of language and challenging assumptions about students’ backgrounds.  * Engaging Constructively with Students: * Reinforcing critical thinking and fact-based arguments. * Using historical and comparative examples to de-escalate controversial topics. * Combating Misinformation: * Teaching fact-checking and data analysis skills.  * Exploring foundational concepts like democracy and authoritarianism to contextualize current events. * The Role of AI in Education: * Balancing the use of AI for research with the importance of original thought and skill development. * Rethinking assignments to promote critical analysis over AI-generated content. * Fostering Trust and Credibility: * Encouraging students to place current issues in historical perspective. * Highlighting the importance of diverse demographics in understanding political systems. * Adapting to Evolving Political Landscapes: * Structuring curricula to cover foundational knowledge before addressing current examples. * Using historical parallels and international perspectives to connect with contemporary issues. About the Authors Dr. Christina Bejarano Dr. Bejarano is a Professor of Political Science at Texas Women’s University and coauthor of The Enduring Democracy [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/the-enduring-democracy-8-287749]. Her research focuses on the intersection of gender, race, and political behavior in the U.S., with a particular emphasis on the contributions of women and ethnic minorities. Dr. SoRelle Gaynor Dr. Gaynor is an Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia’s Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy and coauthor of Congress Explained: Representation and Lawmaking in the First Branch [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/congress-explained-2-290898]. With experience on Capitol Hill and expertise in congressional leadership and institutional reform, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the classroom. Eric Langenbacher Eric is a Teaching Professor and Director of the Honors Program at Georgetown University, as well as the author of Comparative Politics: Mapping Institutions, Power, and Legitimacy [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/comparative-politics-1-261801]. His global perspective and extensive teaching experience enrich his approach to political science education. This episode brought to you by Sage Vantage. Learn more at collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage].

Making Money Real Part 2: Straight Talk on Student Loans

Student loan debt is more than just a financial obligation—it’s a challenge that shapes careers, mental health, and long-term opportunities. In Part 2 of the Making Money Real series, "Straight Talk on Student Loans," Dr. Kristen Carioti, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Mount Mary University, shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of student loans. With a background in economics and years of experience helping students manage debt, Dr. Carioti offers practical advice to empower borrowers to take control of their financial futures. Whether you're a college finance instructor guiding students or someone managing your own loans, this episode provides essential insights and tools for success. What We Talk About Here’s what’s covered in the episode: * The Emotional Toll of Debt: How student loans impact mental health and life transitions. * Debunking Myths: The risks of relying on forgiveness programs, the differences between federal and private loans, and the consequences of defaulting. * Smart Choices for Students: Tips for choosing the right degree, exploring careers through internships and job shadows, and minimizing unnecessary borrowing. * Repayment Strategies for Graduates: How to identify loan servicers, explore repayment plans, and create a budget that works. * Encouraging Data: Why most borrowers ultimately find value in their education despite initial doubts. About the Author Dr. Kristen Carioti is a Sage author, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Mount Mary University, and a passionate advocate for financial literacy. With over two decades of teaching experience, she specializes in personal finance, applied economics, and creating inclusive learning environments. Dr. Carioti is dedicated to equipping students with the tools they need to build lasting financial independence, inspiring them to think of themselves as savvy investors and confident decision-makers.  Beyond academics, she enjoys weightlifting, journaling, and spending time with her family. Her textbook, Introduction to Personal Finance: A Step-by-Step Guide to Financial Freedom [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/introduction-to-personal-finance-1-282139], empowers learners to make informed financial choices with clarity and confidence.  This episode brought to you by Sage Vantage. Learn more at collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage].

Making Money Real Part 3: Crypto & Investing Made Simple

Investing can feel intimidating, but it’s a critical step toward financial independence. In the final episode of the Making Money Real series, Dr. Kristen Carioti, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Mount Mary University, breaks down the fundamentals of investing. With her expertise in economics and passion for financial education, Dr. Carioti shares actionable strategies to make investing accessible and approachable for everyone. From understanding the difference between saving and investing to exploring the appeal of cryptocurrency, this episode equips listeners with the tools to confidently take their first steps into the world of investing. Whether you’re a college finance instructor or someone looking to grow your financial knowledge, this episode is packed with insights to help you or your students succeed. What We Talk About Here’s what’s covered in the episode: * Saving vs. Investing: Why investing is essential for long-term financial freedom. * Beginner-Friendly Strategies: The power of dollar-cost averaging, index funds, and automating contributions. * Making Investing Accessible: How to help students see themselves as investors and take their first steps. * Cryptocurrency: Its appeal, risks, and why it’s more of a hobby than a retirement plan. * Practical Classroom Applications: Guiding students through setting up accounts, understanding options, and seeing the magic of compounding. * Empowering Students: Why financial freedom is achievable for everyone, regardless of their starting point. About the Author Dr. Kristen Carioti is a Sage author, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Mount Mary University, and a passionate advocate for financial literacy. With over two decades of teaching experience, she specializes in personal finance, applied economics, and creating inclusive learning environments. Dr. Carioti is dedicated to equipping students with the tools they need to build lasting financial independence, inspiring them to think of themselves as savvy investors and confident decision-makers.  Beyond academics, she enjoys weightlifting, journaling, and spending time with her family. Her textbook, Introduction to Personal Finance: A Step-by-Step Guide to Financial Freedom [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/introduction-to-personal-finance-1-282139], empowers learners to make informed financial choices with clarity and confidence.  This episode brought to you by Sage Vantage. Learn more at collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage].

PR in the Age of AI: Keeping it Human

How does AI fit into a profession as deeply human-centric as public relations? Valerie Fields, a leading expert with 30 years of industry and teaching experience, breaks down how AI is reshaping PR— from drafting press releases in seconds to navigating AI-driven crises—while sharing strategies to prepare students for a field where human creativity, critical thinking, and trust continue to be essential. Designed for educators guiding the next wave of communication leaders, this episode delivers insights that matter.  Summary Valerie Fields, a public relations professional with over 30 years of experience as both a practitioner and educator, examines the evolving role of AI in public relations and its implications for the skills future industry leaders will need. The episode outlines practical approaches for incorporating AI-driven tools into classroom teaching while emphasizing foundational values such as trust, authenticity, and relationship-building. Fields also discusses ways educators can adjust their curricula to address emerging trends, ensuring students are equipped to integrate innovation into their work while maintaining creativity and meaningful communication. This overview is particularly relevant for professors focused on preparing students for an industry that merges technological advancements with the enduring importance of human connection.  What We Talk About Here’s what’s covered in the episode: * Balancing technology and humanity: Exploring how PR professionals can use AI as a tool without losing focus on the human connection, trust, and strategic creativity that define the field. * AI’s impact on PR: Discussing how AI is transforming public relations through enhanced efficiency, while underlining the importance of foundational skills and the dangers of over-reliance on automation. * Social change and ethics: Preparing students to work authentically and ethically in an environment influenced by societal, political, and economic shifts. * Skills for future professionals: The essential skills students need to thrive in the industry, including critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and adaptive storytelling in the context of technological advancement. * Experiential learning in education: Leveraging real-world projects and service-learning experiences to help students bridge the gap between theory and practice. * AI's potential for mistakes: How PR professionals can counteract AI's errors, like fabricated information, to maintain accuracy and credibility. * Relevance of press releases: Highlighting the adaptability and continued usefulness of press releases as a key tool for communication, even in the digital age.  About the Author With nearly 30 years of experience as a PR practitioner and educator, Valerie “VK” Fields brings a unique blend of real-world expertise and academic insight to her work. As a senior lecturer at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's School of Media and Journalism, she has spent 18 years equipping students with the skills to succeed in the evolving PR landscape. She is the founder of PR Pros, a Raleigh-based, award-winning agency that has partnered with high-profile clients like McDonald’s and Disney to deliver effective communication strategies. VK is also the author of Public Relations Writing: Essential Tools for Effective Storytelling [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/prwriting], a trusted resource for aspiring PR professionals. Dedicated to ethical, human-centered communication, VK combines creativity and strategy to inspire the next generation of PR storytellers.  This episode brought to you by Sage Vantage. Learn more at collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage [https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/vantage].