PsychSessions: Conversations about Teaching N' Stuff

In this episode Eric and special guest host Jane Halonen (University of West Florida) interview Tom McGovern, emeritus faculty from Arizona State University. Tom shares his rich and varied experiences, from teaching at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and leading the Geezers Salon to founding a new campus at Arizona State University. He recounts his challenging health journey with Guillain-Barré Syndrome and his relentless dedication to teaching, even while hospitalized. Tom also discusses his involvement in landmark educational conferences, his pedagogical philosophy, and his long-standing contributions to psychology. Jane and Eric highlight Tom's resilience, ethical leadership, and lasting impact on the academic community. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this Part 2 episode Eric interviews Ho Huynn from Australian National University in Canberra, Australia. Ho shares his experiences of moving from Texas to Australia, including the personal and professional motivations behind the move. He discusses the cultural nuances of living in Australia and provides insights into the Australian higher education system compared to the US system. Ho also dives into his teaching and research activities, including a special program for undergraduates and his ongoing work in humility research. Additionally, Ho offers advice for faculty members considering pursuing academic opportunities abroad. [Note: Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Garth interviews Ebony Glover from Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA. Ebony shares her journey in academia, including postdoctoral work and her love for teaching. They discuss the importance of research in neuroscience, especially concerning sex differences, and how those differences influence both her research and teaching. Ebony emphasizes the significance of active learning in engaging students and describes various classroom strategies she employs. Additionally, she discusses her contributions to the upcoming fifth edition of the textbook 'Psychology in Your Life' and her excitement about balancing teaching with scholarship in her mid-career. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Efren Velazquez from the University of North Georgia in Gainsville, GA. Efren reflects on his 13-year journey since graduating from Boise State University. They discuss his career progression, including his promotion to associate professor and imminent consideration for full professorship. The conversation delves into the challenges and self-doubt faced during the tenure process, often referred to as imposter syndrome. He shares his experience launching a community-focused family literacy program with his department chair and the importance of involving students in community engagement. They also reminisce about their mentor-mentee relationship at Boise State and the significant role mentorship plays in academic and professional development. Future aspirations, including potential administrative roles and other key anecdotes, round out this insightful episode. [Note: Portions of the show notes were generated using Descript AI.]

In this episode Eric interviews Mitch Handelsman from the University of Colorado Denver, in Denver, CO. They engage in a spirited conversation about various topics, including university mottos and logos, the history of their academic careers, and the impact of AI on teaching and learning. Mitch elaborates on his background, the influence of his family, and his journey through academia. The conversation also touches upon the challenges of retirement, the role of luck and effort in career success, and how AI is reshaping educational practices. Mitch emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of an ever-changing student demographic and the significance of ethical considerations in the age of AI. [Note. Portions of the show notes were generated by Descript AI.]