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:  

  1. He emphasized the concept of scarcity in education, particularly regarding instruction, accessibility, and certification.
  2. Dennin criticized the culture of grade scarcity in academia, arguing that it creates a false narrative of value.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. He stressed the importance of universities re-examining their value proposition in light of technological advancements and changing student needs.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. He stressed the importance of using data and research to inform changes in educational approaches, particularly when designing for diverse student populations.
  10. 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: 

  1. Introduced the 5th session of the UCI Compass Community of Practice Book Club on "The Abundant University: Remaking Higher Education for a Digital World."
  2. Announced that the session would focus on structural disruption, covering chapters 9-11 of the book.
  3. Introduced Michael Dennin as the guest speaker for the session.

Key Comments: 

  1. Mentioned the use of AI companion for recording and transcribing the meeting.
  2. Recalled a previous comment by Michael Dennin about being interested in data that raises questions and motivates change.
  3. Shared an example of how technology has impacted dance education during the pandemic, with online classes allowing for recording and review of sessions.
  4. Discussed how technology has been beneficial in sports training, allowing athletes to review and perfect their techniques.
  5. Shared a personal anecdote about her mother teaching Shakespeare to elementary school children, highlighting the long-term impact of early exposure to complex ideas.
  6. Questioned whether higher education should be more involved in K-12 education to encourage broader thinking at earlier ages.

Closing: 

  1. Announced the upcoming Session 6 on Friday, featuring Tom Andriola, focusing on "Rediscovering Our Mission."
  2. Reminded participants about signing up for GPS Maps Track 2 and the upcoming Track 3 components.
  3. Mentioned that the recording and slides would be posted on Data GPS and Canvas.
  4. Encouraged participants to come prepared with questions for the next session with Tom Andriola, as he prefers interactive discussions.
  5. Thanked everyone for joining the session.

Throughout the meeting, Astrud facilitated discussions, asked thought-provoking questions, and provided context for the topics being discussed.