Sparkshops

4:30 PM | Virtual Event | Zubair Barkat

In this hands-on Sparkshop, participants will design and test a course-specific AI teaching assistant using Google Gems in Gemini. The session will focus on aligning AI support with course goals, assignment expectations, teaching style, and ethical boundaries. Participants will identify one instructional use case, draft a simple assistant blueprint, test it with student-facing prompts, and revise it using a brief accuracy and alignment check.

To participate in the hands-on activities, participants should have access to Google Gemini and be logged into their account before the workshop begins. Creating Gemini Gems is free and does not require a paid account. Participants can review Gemini subscription options and learn more about Google Gems.

4:30 PM | Virtual Event | Shalyn Drake

This Sparkshop is designed for faculty who incorporate community engagement or project‑based methods into their teaching and want a clearer path for developing CEL‑designated courses and learn about why they are powerful. The session begins with a brief, focused overview of Community Engaged Learning followed by a guided, step‑by‑step walkthrough of the CEL course designation and planning process. Participants will leave with a stronger understanding of CEL principles, an instructional design module they can use for faculty development, and a practical checklist for implementing CEL projects in their own courses.

4:30 PM | Virtual Event | Christy Glass

Faculty are often asked to take on service opportunities, but knowing when to say yes or no can be challenging. This Sparkshop will explore strategies for evaluating opportunities based on your priorities, workload, and professional goals while setting healthy boundaries and maintaining positive relationships with colleagues.

4:30 PM | Virtual Event | Marlene Graf & Alyssa Reidhead

Mental health conditions among students in higher education – including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges – are on the rise. Today’s student population also includes neurodiverse individuals who report higher levels of loneliness, stress, and mental health concerns compared to their peers. This session will provide practical strategies and resources for proactively creating a learning environment that supports student learning and well-being – particularly among students who are experiencing (or at risk for) mental health challenges.  Attendees will explore appropriate ways to adapt teaching methods to foster inclusion, encourage resilience, and support academic success.