Session Descriptions
Thursday's Sessions |
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| 9:45 - 10:45 | Defining Learning Spaces Linda Miller, Director CTLT When we first discussed Learning Spaces, we realized quickly that the phrase “Learning Spaces” had different meanings and connotations, even among our CTLT group. While some first imagined physical spaces, such as a traditional classroom, others envisioned an open field that encouraged reflective thinking and discovery. And others considered the cognitive processes that occur in the brain when new information is received. So, we begin the Forum with several questions. What does “Learning Spaces” mean to educators today? How do learning spaces influence the teaching and learning of today’s students? And what role does technology play? We look forward to hearing your thoughts. |
| 11:00 - 12:15 | 2007: A Learning Space Odyssey Dr. Ricky Cox In this moderated session, participants will address strategies for teaching an ever-expanding student body in older, traditional classrooms. A case study will be presented that highlights the negative and positive aspects of particular classrooms and the role of classroom design in creating effective teaching and learning spaces. This session will also include a discussion of the educational value of instructional technologies such as the tablet PC, web conferencing and podcasting. These new tools of technology have expanded the instructional toolbox of many teachers but are also raising important questions about the role of technology in improving teaching and learning. |
| 12:30 - 1:45 | Bits and Bytes Come grab a snack and browse examples of technology that support teaching. |
| 2:00 - 3:15 | Trading Spaces: Finding the Common Ground Between our Teaching Spaces and Students' Learning Spaces Dr. David Durr In this session, participants will consider the various spaces (physical or not) in which students learn-for example:
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| 3:30 - 4:45 | Oh Student, Where Art Thou?
Dr. Sue Sroda In this session, participants will be exploring the idea of alternative teaching and learning avenues outside of the traditional classroom. |
| 5:30 | Dinner with Keynote Speaker, Dr. Todd Zakrajsek
Murray Room (1st floor, RSEC). RSVP required MSU participants: RSVP for the dinner by noon on Friday, September 14th by calling 809-2535. There is no fee for Murray State faculty and instructors. Understanding Student Behavior and Creating Effective Learning Environments Dr. Todd Zakrajsek We all know the amazing capacity of the human mind. What seems equally amazing, however, is how difficult it is for our students to learn even "simple" material and also how quickly that information evaporates from their awareness. This presentation will focus on research pertaining to human learning and methods you can use to create more effective learning environments for your students. Find out why your students skip class, learn strategies to encourage them to complete assigned readings, and acquire tips you can give them to increase the effectiveness of their study time. Most importantly, learn how to use fundamental cues humans rely on for survival to facilitate learning in your classes. |
Friday's Sessions
| 9:30 - 10:20 | Workshop — How Students Learn: Strategies for Teaching from the Psychology of Learning Workshop led by Dr. Todd Zakrajsek Abundant research demonstrates that learning takes place when the student's mind actively engages in the material. The major problem is determining how to increase that activity. Within the discipline of human memory, learning, and cognition exists a vast body of literature dealing specifically with this issue. Participants will leave this workshop with an understanding of the basic concepts in human learning, how to present information so that students most effectively encode it into long-term memory, and how to help students know when they know. |
| 10:30 - 11:20 | Renovations, Innovations and Frustrations: A Look at MSU Teaching and Learning Spaces
CTLT Staff CTLT knows about changes! The last year has had its share of renovations, innovations, and frustrations. And now, it’s time to swap war stories. Have you heard of the physical renovations in the Hart Hall computer lab, making it more comfortable and appealing with lights, flooring, and furniture? Physical renovations also are taking place in the Applied Science computer lab, as it is being converted to a pilot Tablet PC environment with a wireless projector and high end screen. And yes, you can reserve the lab for classtime, too. The campus has also witnessed several innovations recently by utilizing old spaces in new ways. Faculty Hall now uses thin client technology, and the Business Building made new strides in research possibilities after a librarian moved in near the drinks and food! Of course, we cannot dismiss the frustrations. We become frustrated with the slow pace of change regarding technology. Technological advances occur in spurts that happen rapidly, while the adoption and acquisition of new technology can be painfully slow. |
| 11:30 | Closing Remarks and Door Prize Drawing This year's door prizes include:
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