Technology and student access to technology has changed significantly since I was last in the classroom. I know that I have colleagues that ban the use of technology in their…
Read moreThe Fluency Illusion and a Better Way to Study
I’ve recently finished reading How We Learn: The Surprising Truth About When, Where, and Why it Happens by Benedict Carey and I was reminded of a challenge I’ve often had…
Read moreDon’t confuse assessment with evaluation
One of the challenges facing faculty and other campus members working on assessment initiatives is the confusion that can be caused by the terms assessment and evaluation. These two words…
Read moreA Faculty Internship
After spending time in academic administration, when I walk into the classroom next fall I’ll be teaching for the first time in eight years. A major goal of my current…
Read moreRegarding the value of combining liberal arts and professional programs
Faculty and administrators at small colleges that have both liberal arts and professional programs often debate the value of the combination particularly when discussing the allocation of finite resources—e.g., budgets…
Read moreHow is your sabbatical going?
Recently, I have a number of conversations start with someone asking me, “How is your sabbatical going?” The conversation typically happens where a lengthy response is not appropriate – while…
Read moreGeotechnical Engineering: Big Ideas and Fundamental Understandings
(Below is the text of a letter in response to recent exchanges on the USUCGER e-mail list. USUCGER, The United States Universities Council on Geotechnical Education and Research) The recent…
Read moreLogic Models
As an academic, in a faculty or administrative role, I frequently have needed to work with others to create a grant proposal or to develop and move forward a new…
Read moreSetting up my office… again (and a plug for Book Crawler)
As I return to the role of a full-time faculty member, I’m getting a chance to sort through all my academic belongings as I set up my office once again. …
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