Book Club Session 5 - Discussion Highlights and Insights, Host and Guest Speaker
Provide a summary with highlights and key points of Michael Dennin's opening and comments throughout the meeting
Here's a summary of Michael Dennin's key points throughout the meeting:
- He emphasized the concept of scarcity in education, particularly regarding instruction, accessibility, and certification.
- Dennin criticized the culture of grade scarcity in academia, arguing that it creates a false narrative of value.
- He highlighted the need for universities to focus on teaching students how to learn, be creative, and think critically, rather than just imparting specific knowledge.
- Dennin discussed the impact of technological changes on higher education, noting that while universities have survived past technological shifts, the current changes may be more disruptive.
- He stressed the importance of universities re-examining their value proposition in light of technological advancements and changing student needs.
- Dennin proposed rethinking the traditional 4-year university model, suggesting a more flexible approach that could include shorter programs or different combinations of in-person and online learning.
- He advocated for a curriculum that focuses on different ways of knowing and thinking in the first year or two, followed by more specialized study based on student interests.
- Dennin emphasized the need for universities to be both appropriately conservative in preserving what works and flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances and student populations.
- He stressed the importance of using data and research to inform changes in educational approaches, particularly when designing for diverse student populations.
- Dennin encouraged experimentation and iteration in designing educational experiences, acknowledging that initial attempts may not be perfect but can be improved over time.
Provide a summary with highlights and key points of Astrud Reed's opening, closing, and comments throughout the meeting
Based on the context provided, here's a summary of Astrud Reed's opening, closing, and key comments throughout the meeting:
Opening:
- Introduced the 5th session of the UCI Compass Community of Practice Book Club on "The Abundant University: Remaking Higher Education for a Digital World."
- Announced that the session would focus on structural disruption, covering chapters 9-11 of the book.
- Introduced Michael Dennin as the guest speaker for the session.
Key Comments:
- Mentioned the use of AI companion for recording and transcribing the meeting.
- Recalled a previous comment by Michael Dennin about being interested in data that raises questions and motivates change.
- Shared an example of how technology has impacted dance education during the pandemic, with online classes allowing for recording and review of sessions.
- Discussed how technology has been beneficial in sports training, allowing athletes to review and perfect their techniques.
- Shared a personal anecdote about her mother teaching Shakespeare to elementary school children, highlighting the long-term impact of early exposure to complex ideas.
- Questioned whether higher education should be more involved in K-12 education to encourage broader thinking at earlier ages.
Closing:
- Announced the upcoming Session 6 on Friday, featuring Tom Andriola, focusing on "Rediscovering Our Mission."
- Reminded participants about signing up for GPS Maps Track 2 and the upcoming Track 3 components.
- Mentioned that the recording and slides would be posted on Data GPS and Canvas.
- Encouraged participants to come prepared with questions for the next session with Tom Andriola, as he prefers interactive discussions.
- Thanked everyone for joining the session.
Throughout the meeting, Astrud facilitated discussions, asked thought-provoking questions, and provided context for the topics being discussed.