GREETINGS FROM THE DIRECTOR TO THE FACULTY AT UHD

Dear UHD Faculty,

Things are beginning to heat up here in Houston and I am in a bit of denial over both the occasional humid day and the reality that this spring semester at UHD will soon end. While the higher education landscape is ever changing, this semester really stood out with the beginnings of some considerable disruptions that we will need to continue to navigate in the coming semesters. In particular, the rise of generative AI (i.e. ChatGPT) has led to some uncertainty about what the future of teaching and learning will hold. In addition, we have all been working tirelessly to begin the process of transitioning from Blackboard to Canvas. All that said I want to assure you that the CTLE is committed to providing you with the support and resources you need to navigate these challenges.

To that end, over the past few months, we have held a series of webinars and workshops designed to facilitate conversations about the potential benefits and challenges of generative AI in the classroom. Our new Instructional Designer, Fabiola Vacatoledo, was instrumental in gathering resources and collaborating with our Associate Director, Georges Detiveaux, in facilitating these sessions. They explored topics ranging from the academic integrity implications of AI in education to practical strategies for incorporating AI into your teaching. We will continue to provide you with the comprehensive and responsive support you need to help our students learn and succeed, even with these changing circumstances. Whether you are looking for guidance on how to incorporate AI tools into your course design or need some advice on how to make the most of the new learning management system, Canvas, we are here to help. For example, as you begin to explore Canvas you will find resources developed by the CTLE team in collaboration with the TTLC and leadership in the Provost Office. Check out (page 5) of this newsletter for on overview of one such course, Growing with Canvas @ UHD

While we have been busy responding to these disruptions, we have continued to offer you our ongoing programs and services that are faculty-driven, evidence-based, and student-centered. Along those lines, I have heard from several faculty members that they are planning to submit a Teaching Circles proposal addressing ChatGPT in the classroom. We hope to receive proposals for a range of other topics. If you are interested in exploring a topic in teaching and learning with your colleagues in the coming academic year, the Teaching Circles Initiative is a great opportunity. If you are interested but would like to consult about possible proposal ideas, reach out soon with an email to ctle@uhd.edu or use our consultation request form (airtable.com/shrEP9zxfalDPPHRX). The May 5 due date is quickly approaching. Learn more on (page 6).

As we move forward, I encourage you to stay engaged with the CTLE and take advantage of the many resources and programs we offer. Be sure to peruse this newsletter for some additional updates and more detail on our various services. From workshops and webinars to consultations and support services, we are here to help you achieve your goals and continue to provide the highest quality education to our students. Together, we can embrace the potential of generative AI, Canvas, and other emerging technologies to build on the tradition of teaching excellence and student success at UHD.

All my best, Gregory