Abstracts

Lightning Round

LUNCH SESSION

Presenters: Center for Advancing Faculty Excellence staff – Missouri S&T

Time and Location: 11:30 – 12:15 p.m.; Room 124

CAFE staff will demonstrate some apps or technologies that can be used in the classroom or to help with productivity. This will be a very high-level, informal discussion of the apps with a brief Q&A period after each demonstration. The best part of this presentation? All of these programs are absolutely FREE!

1-101-1 // Let’s Have the Talk: Using AI to Practice Professional Communication Skills in Healthcare

TYPE: Learning Stack (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Molly Meyer – Assistant Professor; St. Charles Community College

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 101

“Let’s Have the Talk” was a simulated activity for Medical Assisting students to practice and hone communication skills with an interactive patient, in a low-risk environment. This project combined both an interactive image as well as an AI chatbot to recreate tough and sometimes uncomfortable conversations that are difficult to role-play with peers.

1-101-2 // Transforming Classroom Education with Simulation Debriefing Practices

TYPE: Learning Stack (15-20 minutes)

Presenters:
Dr. Corrie Dudley – Associate Professor of Nursing; Southeast Missouri State University
Laura Schumpert – Southeast Missouri State University

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 101

Simulation debriefing, a cornerstone of nursing education, fosters reflection, critical thinking, and knowledge retention by bridging theoretical concepts with clinical application. While traditionally used in clinical settings, this presentation explores innovative strategies to integrate debriefing techniques into classroom education, transforming passive lectures into active, engaging learning experiences. Attendees will gain practical tools and frameworks for applying debriefing methods to enhance student learning, and satisfaction.

1-115-1 // Creating Technical Artwork

TYPE: Learning Stack (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Jeff Thomas – Teaching Professor of Civil, Architectural, & Environmental Engineering; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 115

Having published textbooks for 14 years and educational web sites for 28 years, I would like to share how I combine sketching, photography, 3D modeling, vector tools, and AI to produce technical artwork. My workflow includes Procreate, Imaging Edge, Helicon Focus, Fusion 360, Firefly, Animate, and PaintShop Pro.

1-115-2 // A Simplified Approach to Leveraging AI and ML in Computational Economics

TYPE: Learning Stack (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Jikhan Jeong – Assistant Professor of Economics; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 115

We will explore the application of various AI and ML tools in computational economics, using an actual NSF CAREER dataset for Economics in the Google Colab environment. This exploration will leverage Python, PyTorch, and other relevant tools. For example, we will learn how to generate HTML files from Jupyter notebooks file (*.ipynb) on Google Colab, utilize language models for text analysis, and apply generative AI techniques for prompt engineering.

1-120 // Redesigning Freshman Engineering

TYPE: Standard Session (45 minutes)

Presenters:
Rachel Kohman – Assistant Dean of Entrepreneurship Education; Missouri S&T
Elizabeth Reardon – Instructional Technologist III; Center for Advancing Faculty Excellence; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 120

The FE1100 course at Missouri S&T has been redesigned over the past few years to improve the student experience and student retention. A variety of technologies and pedagogies have been implemented to continuously improve this course.

1-121-1 // Creating Connections through Classroom Interaction and Activities

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Dushanthi Herath – Assistant Professor of Mathematics; Maryville University

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 121

Many students struggle with challenging math concepts, but engaging activities can significantly enhance their understanding. We can encourage continuous practice and student engagement by connecting real-life scenarios to mathematical applications and developing tailored study plans. This presentation will explore these strategies, emphasizing using LMSs and apps.

1-121-2 // KEEN inspired High Structure Course Design of EE2800 and its impact on STEM aspirations

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. BJ Shrestha – Associate Teaching Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 121

This presentation is about the intersection of our STEM aspirations here at S&T and the efforts the presenter has made in developing entrepreneurial mindset content to integrate the KEEN principles of curiosity, connections, and value creation for EE2800 – Electrical Circuits, an undergraduate survey course taken by non-EE/CpE majors as a departmental requirement for graduation.

1-124-1 // Minecraft Education Edition for Engineering

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Alexander Douglas – Assistant Teaching Professor of Mining and Explosives Engineering; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 124

Minecraft Education Edition is a familiar game with several enhancements for the classroom. This presentation will discuss how Minecraft was incorporated into a single module of the Principles Of Mining Engineering to connect several topics such as computer programming, computer-aided design, introduction to mining methods, rock mechanics, and mineral economics. Time will be allowed to discuss tips, tricks, and other implementation ideas.

1-124-2 // New Case Studies for Molecular Biology

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Andrea Scharf – Assistant Professor of Biological Science; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 124

In this session, I will share the redesigning of a molecular genetics course through the integration of 12 case studies aimed at enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. A key example involves a newly developed case study where students apply existing knowledge and acquire new skills in molecular genetics methods to solve a guided, real-world problem.

1-125 // Digital Accessibility: Get Ready for Updates to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act

TYPE: Standard Session (45 minutes)

Presenters:
Laura Foley – Instructional Designer III; Missouri Online
Manon Allard-Kropp – Instructional Designer III; Missouri Online

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 12:15 – 1:00 p.m.; Room 125

Digital accessibility is not only a best practice for inclusive teaching, it is the law. By April 2026, all electronic materials provided by state and local government entities must meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. In other words, your Canvas site and all materials you offer must be accessible, even if you have not received a request for accommodation. Join us to learn more about what this means and how you can prepare.

2-101 // Empowering Learning: Redesigning Curricula through Competency-Based Instruction

TYPE: Standard Session (45 minutes)

Presenters:
Dr. Elizabeth Cudney – President; Cudney Consulting, LLC and Professor of Data Analytics; Maryville University
Becky Lopanec – Senior Instructional Designer; Maryville University

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 101

This presentation will present an approach for redesigning a foundational course in a data analytics program, aiming to transition it into a self-paced, competency-based learning experience. The objective was to provide students with a structured yet flexible learning environment to master core skills essential for success in the data analytics field. Guided by competency-based learning principles, the redesign identified critical skills required for data analytics professionals, including statistical analysis, data wrangling, visualization, and programming in Excel, Power BI, SQL, R, and Python. The methodology employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative industry needs analysis and quantitative student learning outcomes assessment. Assignments were revamped to align with industry standards and real-world applications closely. The successful implementation of the self-paced, competency-based learning model empowers students to progress through the material at their own pace, demonstrating mastery of key concepts and skills. Redesigned assignments, grounded in industry data and best practices, provide practical experience and deeper understanding. This approach showcases the application of competency-based learning principles in course design, offering students an effective and engaging learning experience while ensuring alignment with industry standards for success in data analytics.

2-115-1 // Lightboard — A New Interactive Teaching Tool

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Lijun Jiang – Kummer Endowed Professor in Electrical & Computer Engineering; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 115

This talk introduces the lightboard technology that can visually integrate presenter into slides. It creates a magical effect that could bring more attention and focus from audiences. It is a new approach that makes teaching and presentation attractive and unique.

2-115-2 // Making Lectures Interactive

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Michelle Schwartze – Associate Teaching Professor of Education; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 115

Do you want to engage students more during the lecture? Peardeck and Nearpod are two easy ways to take your lecture notes and incorporate student participation. I will share with you how to create a presentation using these two applications.

2-120 // Making the Case: Using AI to Create Relevant and Usable Case Studies

TYPE: Standard Session (45 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Abram Book – Assistant Professor of Communication Studies & Modern Languages; Southeast Missouri State University

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 120

Case studies are a wonderful teaching tool but it can be difficult to find case studies that fit specific learning objectives and creating them from scratch can be labor-intensive. In this session, attendees will learn to use their favorite AI to quickly create quality case studies that can be easily modified and used in the classroom immediately.

2-121-1 // Up the “Novelty” of Your Book Studies With Novel Engineering

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Karalin Sanders – Library Media Specialist; Mansfield R-IV Schools

Audience: K-12 Education

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 121

Are you looking for ways to combine STEM with literacy? Look no further than Novel Engineering! In this session, we will learn about Novel Engineering, explore projects, and brainstorm ways you can combine engineering and literacy in your K-12 classroom!

2-121-2 // Service-Learning in STEAM courses

TYPE: Learning Stack Sessions (15-20 minutes)

Presenters:
Amanda Gowin – Associate Professor of Health and Exercise Science; Westminster College
Tami Ensor – Associate Professor of Education; Westminster College

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 121

Service-learning has been well established as a high-impact educational pedagogy, blending academic coursework, meaningful community experiences, and critical reflection to improve student learning outcomes (Astin et al., 2000; Kuh, 2015; Mabry, 1998). As service-learning courses have increased, they have been shown to improve student outcomes within social, civic, personal and professional development (Jacoby, 2015; Kuh, 2015), along with their intended course outcomes. Westminster College faculty have expanded service-learning coursework in the STEAM field which have improved student learning outcomes, along with strengthening community partnerships through providing service.  This learning stack will share course examples and student learning outcomes in exercise science, nutritional sciences, Junior Achievement, and STEAM night.

2-124-1 // The Effect of Assessment Format on Student Achievement: A Meta-Analysis

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Audience: Higher Education

Presenter: Dr. Vahe Permzadian – Assistant Professor of Psychological Science; Missouri S&T

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 124

Instructors must choose the most appropriate assessment format for their exams, as even small changes can impact student learning. This meta-analytic review examines the relationship between assessment format and student achievement, while also identifying study characteristics that may moderate this effect. Understanding these moderators helps provide evidence-based recommendations for maximizing student performance and learning.

2-124-2 // A New Strategy for Open-Ended Long Term Creative Projects with A La Cart Rubrics

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Audience: Higher Education

Presenter: Hunter Dyar – Assistant Professor of Immersive Media; Chatham University

Time and Location: 1:15 – 2:00 p.m.; Room 124

Balancing providing a process with creating a project is a challenge for project-based courses, like those in Chatham University’s Immersive Media undergraduate program, focused on VR/AR design and development. In this talk, we will share our framework for student agency in their work. How we consistently allow for students to get invested in projects they ideated and proposed, where the students can select their own milestones. All this while hitting our learning objectives and deep technological integrations.

The ‘a la cart rubrics’ approach was inspired by graduate-level programs, but implementing it can be challenging. Whether or not this strategy is right for you, the tricks and lessons for managing student projects are insightful for educators of all levels.

3-101 // Getting Students Talking: Building Engagement and Community in the Classroom

TYPE: Standard Session (45 minutes)

Presenters: 
Dr. Brianna Anderson – Assistant Director; Center for Teaching and Learning; University of Missouri-St. Louis
Dr. Ana Quiring – Learning Innovation Specialist; Center for Teaching and Learning; University of Missouri-St. Louis

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.; Room 101

Research shows that getting students talking in the classroom is an important aspect of their overall academic success. In this session, we will introduce and practice strategies for building student engagement, giving discussions structure, and making everyone feel comfortable sharing. We use the technique of the “four corners debate,” which invites students to work collaboratively to make a strong argument.

3-115 // AI Hacks for Math Teachers: Teach Smarter, Not Harder!

TYPE: Standard Session (45 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Vinay Kanth Rao Kodipelly – Assistant Teaching Professor; University of Missouri-St. Louis

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.; Room 115

This session will showcase how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can transform math teaching by streamlining content creation, automating problem generation, and providing personalized support. Vinay recently presented his talk “AI Hacks for Math Teachers: Teach Smarter, Not Harder!” at the Advanced Credit Program’s professional development series, where he shared practical, time-saving AI-driven strategies with Saint Louis area high school teachers. These techniques, including AI-generated flashcards for hypothesis testing, Kahoot quiz prep automation, and enhanced lecture notes in Canvas, have been successfully implemented in his own math and statistics courses at UMSL. The session inspired attendees to explore new ways to integrate AI into their own classrooms. The article detailing these strategies was published following the talk, reinforcing the impact of AI tools in modernizing teaching practices. This session will provide attendees with actionable insights to leverage AI to make teaching more efficient, engaging, and student-centered.

3-121-1 // Teaching with Impact: Proven Techniques for Motivation, Persistence, and Positive Evaluations

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Guang Xu – Robert H. Quenon Endowed Associate Professor of Mining and Explosives Engineering; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education

Time and Location: 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.; Room 121

This presentation explores effective teaching strategies that focus on building personal relationships with students to foster a supportive learning environment. It emphasizes motivational techniques to inspire learning, methods to reduce student frustration and promote persistence, and approaches to enhance student evaluation outcomes. By applying these strategies, educators can create more engaging and productive classrooms that encourage student success.

3-121-2 // Empathy Mapping

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenters:
Kate Glass – Aspen University
Becky Rose

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.; Room 121

An empathy mapping presentation introduces the concept of understanding users’ or learners’ needs, behaviors, and emotions by visualizing their experiences. The presentation typically walks through the four key quadrants of an empathy map: “Say,” “Think,” “Do,” and “Feel,” helping participants analyze how individuals perceive and interact with a product, service, or learning environment. This approach fosters user-centric solutions and enables better instructional design, content development, or project strategies.

3-124-1 // Building Blocks to Big Ideas: AI Scaffolding to Construct Complex Understanding

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Logan John – Director of the Center for Faith and Service; Chaplain of the College; Instructor of Religious Studies; Westminster College

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.; Room 124

This presentation introduces “AI Scaffolding,” a technique where students use AI to progressively explain complex theories or concepts at increasing levels of sophistication. By breaking down difficult material and reflecting on the nuances introduced at each stage, students deepen their comprehension and gain metacognitive insights. This approach highlights how AI can support structured, layered learning across disciplines, fostering deeper engagement with challenging content.

3-124-2 // Promoting Career Readiness by Using Generative AI in the Classroom

TYPE: Learning Stack Session (15-20 minutes)

Presenter: Dr. Kris Bruckerhoff – Assistant Teaching Professor of Business and Information Technology; Missouri S&T

Audience: Higher Education; K-12 Education

Time and Location: 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.; Room 124

This presentation introduces “AI Scaffolding,” a technique where students use AI to progressively explain complex theories or concepts at increasing levels of sophistication. By breaking down difficult material and reflecting on the nuances introduced at each stage, students deepen their comprehension and gain metacognitive insights. This approach highlights how AI can support structured, layered learning across disciplines, fostering deeper engagement with challenging content.