Dr. Pam Sulger, the Pima Online Department Chair for Psychology and Social Services at Pima College, was recently awarded the 2022 Award for Excellence in eLearning: Innovative eLearning Technology. This award recognized her outstanding use of Packback for her PSY101 course. By integrating Packback, Dr. Sulger has revolutionized her approach to student engagement and learning, offering a transformative learning experience for her students.
Packback is a revolutionary AI-powered writing platform that enhances student engagement and critical thinking skills by guiding them through a structured, inquiry-based approach while supporting the development of students’ unique voices. Pam used Packback in her PSY101 course to stimulate student curiosity and promote deep learning by encouraging them to ask questions, explore multiple perspectives, and provide evidence-based responses.
Brad Butler, Instructional Technologist at Pima Community College, shared his thoughts on what this award means:
“This award acknowledges Pam’s outstanding dedication to delivering an exceptional learning experience for our students, regardless of the course modality. She has successfully cultivated an inclusive learning environment that encourages students to share their funds of knowledge, fostering a transformative impact on their own learning and that of their peers… instructors like Pam provide invaluable insights into the utilization of tools, pushing them to their limits and harnessing their potential in creative ways.
By leveraging the power of Packback, Pam creates a safe & interactive learning community that not only improves student performance but also prepares them for success in their future academic and professional endeavors.
We asked Brad to share a bit more about Pam’s use of Packback & technology in her course. Brad said:
“Pam reimagined her PSY 101 course to be more meaningful for students by covering less content. She believed covering fewer course topics would benefit her students more by diving deeper into fewer topics.”
“Pam shared she knew this approach was possible with other tools, but felt that Packback’s overall user experience would better serve her students through its intentionally designed platform developed for student-driven inquiry. The gamification of asking questions that comes from students receiving a Curiosity Score from Packback’s AI coaching as students write their posts is also of note.”
Pam shared that the “gamification” approach of the assignment led to higher engagement compared to previous courses.
Brad goes on to share more about Pam’s approach to utilizing Packback’s technology:
“In the introductory discussion, she expects [students] to be aware of what questions naturally occur to them. As the course progresses students use this metacognitive approach to identify what they find themselves wondering about as they watch the videos in her course and complete the required readings. While Packback provides a space for students to ask the questions they have, Pam actually empowers students to ask questions by teaching them to discover what questions they naturally have. Pam’s approach gives space for students to speak from their own experiences and lenses as they leverage their own funds of knowledge”
We asked Brad for any advice he has for other instructors looking to or currently utilizing technology in the classroom, and we couldn’t agree more with his insights:
Pedagogy first
“Advocating for the purposeful integration of tools to address pedagogical challenges, rather than adopting technology for the sake of it, is a fundamental principle we endorse. We urge instructors to reflect on the pedagogical motivations behind their tool selection and carefully assess how the chosen tool can effectively address the specific learning and teaching obstacles within their course.”
Expect a learning curve
“We also emphasize the importance of recognizing that there is inevitably a learning curve associated with using any tool. Therefore, it is advisable to introduce the tool gradually, starting with low-stakes assignments, in order to allow both instructors and learners to familiarize themselves with its features. This gradual integration enables a solid understanding of how to utilize the tool correctly and aims to alleviate any apprehension or unease associated with adopting new technology. “
Reflect and improve over time
“Instructors should engage in reflection regarding the effectiveness of the implemented tool and make necessary adjustments for future iterations of the course. It is important to evaluate what aspects proved successful and what aspects fell short, ensuring that the tool’s usage brings about more benefits than drawbacks. By actively assessing the tool’s performance and making informed adaptations, instructors can strive to maximize its potential and ensure a positive educational experience for all involved.”
Congratulations, Pam, for your outstanding work inside and outside of the classroom. And thank you, Brad, for sharing not only kind words about a highly deserving educator, but also sharing insight and advice for others!
To learn more about Packback from one of our fearlessly curious team members, click here!
