Educators and academic leaders from Air University joined Auburn University faculty for the Biggio Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning's (Biggio Center) Course (Re)Design (CRD) program in May. More than 80 participants explored active learning strategies and course innovation through a collaborative course design experience.
Through the partnership, Air University participants worked alongside Auburn faculty and Biggio Center educational developers throughout the week, exchanging ideas and exploring new approaches to teaching, learning and student engagement. The experience brought together educators from different institutional contexts to collaborate on course redesign and active learning.
“Our partnership with Auburn University’s Biggio Center is a critical investment in Air University’s faculty,” said Bill DeMarco, director for strategic initiatives and research at Air University. “By enabling our faculty to participate in the Biggio Center’s flagship Course (Re)Design program, we are ensuring our curriculum remains current and engaging.”
Participants described the program as both collaborative and transformative, citing the value of working alongside colleagues with a range of teaching experiences and perspectives.
“My main takeaway from CRD is that course design is a collaborative effort between the subject matter expert and the design expert,” said Kris Kripchak, A9D design and development director for the Air Force Global College at Air University. “The rich discussions I've had with Auburn faculty prove that the best solutions and innovations come through that cross-functional dialogue.”
For Chad Davis, professor of national security studies at Air War College, the program prompted a broader rethinking of classroom instruction.
“CRD has really helped me move away from just marginally improving my courses to completely reimagining my courses and what I might do in the classroom to make the learning more active,” Davis said.
“Auburn University has a long tradition of supporting those who serve our nation, and this partnership with Air University reflects that shared commitment to leadership and service,” said Asim Ali, executive director of the Biggio Center. “As our country approaches its 250th anniversary, it feels especially meaningful for educators from our institutions to come together to reimagine how we prepare the next generation of learners, leaders, and problem-solvers.”
Through partnerships like this one, the Biggio Center continues to expand opportunities for collaborative teaching innovation across institutions and disciplines. To learn more about the Biggio Center, visit aub.ie/biggio.