From Memorization to Imagination: Embracing a New Culture of Learning for Student Success
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Douglas Thomas, Associate Professor, Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California

Today's students use technology to learn and produce new information in ways that are just beginning to be comprehended. Understanding how and what students are learning through digital media requires new systems of analysis to assure that these understandings evolve with actual experiences and effectively inform pedagogy and curricular designs that match new student demographics. Dr. Thomas will share his latest research findings about the ways in which students are learning in a digital world. He will offer insights for how higher education must change to provide students with the environments critical for success in today's information rich, technologically advanced, and globally connected society.
(Posted on Wed, 25 04 2012 02:38:43)

Empowerment without Boundaries: Untangling the Rhetoric of Access and Success
Friday, March 23, 2012
Michelle Asha Cooper, President, Institute for Higher Education Policy

Meeting the educational and developmental goals of an increasingly diverse student population compels a new vision for systematic change throughout higher education. At the same time, this new student population further entangles traditional definitions of success—including those related to access, student learning, and degree completion. Today's discussions on "student success" must broaden to pose 21st century questions, analyze the opportunities and challenges that characterize the lives of 21st century students, and foster new designs for comprehensive systems that equitably support all students. Dr. Cooper will examine how higher education policies that both reflect and affect the intersections of research and practice can facilitate greater integrative and engaged learning to prepare all students—especially underserved students—for college level work and full participation in our global society.
(Posted on Wed, 25 04 2012 02:55:42)