Information Technology

Top Hat on Campus to help faculty increase engagement, improve student outcomes

Two sessions scheduled for Aug. 28 and 29 with Teaching and Learning with Technology partner

Todd Zakrajsek of Top Hat on Campus presents on the topic of dynamic lecturing. Credit: Top Hat. All Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Teaching and Learning with Technology (TLT) and Top Hat on Campus, Penn State's student engagement platform partner, are hosting two afternoons of programming on Aug. 28 and 29 to help faculty build student connection and engagement with dynamic lectures.

Top Hat on Campus sessions will include:

  • "Dynamic Lecturing: Strategies for More Engaged Learning + Faculty Workshop" — Todd Zakrajsek, the director of five Lily Conferences on College and University Teaching and an associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, will lead an interactive workshop covering the elements of an effective mini-lecture, knowing when to stop lecturing, and key components of engaged learning strategies. This session will be offered on both days.
  • "10 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do with Top Hat" — Faculty will explore time-saving assessment options to enable discussion, empower student agency, and make the most of teaching insights to improve course delivery and student outcomes.
  • "Resource Overview for Penn State Faculty" — TLT and Penn State IT Learning and Development will provide an overview of Penn State-specific resources to support faculty who want to incorporate Top Hat into courses.
  • "Dynamic Content Deep Dive + Faculty Talk" — Greg Pierce, Penn State associate teaching professor in finance, will share how he uses Top Hat to improve student experiences and outcomes outside of class.

Please visit this link to register and select the sessions you wish to attend.

In-person attendance is encouraged in the Dreamery on the lower level of the Shields Building. To request virtual access, faculty may email tltlearningdesign@psu.edu.

Last Updated August 9, 2023