Conferences

This year’s theme is “Teaching Transformations.” From the integration of cutting-edge educational technologies and the growing presence of generative AI to the evolving support structures within and beyond OSU, teaching is undergoing profound transformations that can be both encouraging and challenging. These changes are reshaping how courses are designed, content is delivered, and student progress is assessed.

Moreover, educators are continually adapting their teaching methods to respond to unexpected changes in the political climate, legislation, evolving demographics, and broad social and cultural shifts. This flexibility ensures that teaching remains relevant and effective, preparing students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Transformation in education is not just about keeping pace with the array of changes we face, but about excelling through what may be uncharted territory to enhance our mission—and to improve outcomes for our learners and ourselves.

Preference will be given to proposals that emphasize active engagement with the audience over more passive presentation styles. Proposals might consider the following possible topics (among others): 

• Course designs that embrace transformation: Courses that integrate the latest educational technologies and evolving support structures to enhance learning experiences.
• Innovative applications of Artificial Intelligence: Utilizing AI tools such as Large Language Models and AI art generators to transform teaching and learning processes.
• Adaptive culturally responsive teaching practices: Approaches that address the needs of a diverse and changing student population, incorporating societal shifts and demographic changes.
• Transformative approaches to assessment and evaluation: Creative methods for assessing and grading that leverage new technologies and pedagogical strategies.
• Novel applications of technology in the classroom: Implementing cutting-edge technological solutions to transform traditional teaching methods and improve educational outcomes.

The conference schedule will consist of multiple concurrent 50-minute sessions. When you submit your proposal, you will have a few options for presentation formats: 

1. A standalone 20-minute presentation (These presentations typically feature individuals or small groups of 2-3; when scheduling, conference conveners will pair you with another 20-minute session with a similar theme.)
2. A roundtable of 50 minutes w/several presenters (These presentations typically feature larger groups of 4 or more presenting on a central theme or topic.)
3. NEW: Teaching testimonials. New for this year, we are seeking proposals for short-format (approximately 10 minutes) testimonials or descriptions of teaching practices, acquired skills, experiences, and the like that you picked up from the Drake Institute for Teaching and Learning to be part of a moderated panel session.
4. Take My Teaching Tip, Please! In addition to longer presentations, we invite submissions for “Take My Teaching Tip, Please!”—shorter presentations highlighting the practical dimensions of teaching. if you've got a great idea for a teaching activity, a snappy assignment, or an effective way of facilitating student collaboration in group projects, this is the place for you! Given the shorter, timed format of this presentation type, conference conveners will offer to consult with presenters before the conference. These presentations should adhere to the following guidelines:
   1. Presentations should focus on topics related to teaching and learning practice (e.g., novel assignment designs, innovative approaches or methods, and the like) 
   2. Presentations should be 3-5 minutes in length 
   3. Presentations should include visuals and/or other media that can be incorporated into a common slideshow