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LAST-MODIFIED:20260827T194738Z
UID:11718-1790935200-1790938800@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: To AI or not to AI? Key Considerations for Your Classroom
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitators: Laina Lockett & Thomas Polk\n\nIn this session\, we will review the Stearns Center’s AI Quick Start Guide. Topics include discussing the most common questions asked by GMU faculty about AI\, reviewing recommended resources including the GMU Guidelines for Faculty and Students\, demonstrate some of the tools that are available to use\, and consider ethical considerations for tool usage as instructors. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-to-ai-or-not-to-ai-key-considerations-for-your-classroom-4/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Laina Lockett":MAILTO:llocket@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T113000
DTSTAMP:20260814T211237Z
CREATED:20260814T211217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T211237Z
UID:11805-1791196200-1791199800@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Preparing Your Course and Yourself for Difficult Classroom Discussions & Situations
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Shelley Reid\n\n\n\n\nDo you have strategies to prepare yourself and your students to handle difficult conversations? This could be when you are having difficult conversations about topics like race\, sexuality\, religion\, politics\, or similar. These situations also could result from a discussion comment that makes a student or group uncomfortable. In this workshop\, we will discuss how to design (or redesign) your course and prepare yourself to facilitate important or “hot topic” conversations in the classroom. This workshop is applicable to instructors across all disciplines for facilitating important conversations\, whether or not their course topics include socially pressing issues. This workshop is part of a four-part series for Mason faculty to engage in broadly inclusive education across all disciplines. \n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-preparing-your-course-and-yourself-for-difficult-classroom-discussions-situations-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Shelley Reid":MAILTO:ereid1@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261005T150000
DTSTAMP:20260826T142237Z
CREATED:20260826T142237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T142237Z
UID:11871-1791208800-1791212400@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Conversation Hours: Advanced Alternative Grading
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nAlready using some form of alternative grading in your courses? Join colleagues who are actively implementing alternative grading practices — not to learn the basics\, but to share what’s working\, troubleshoot challenges\, and think through new ideas together. We will meet via Zoom every 3rd Monday at 2pm (dates below). \nEven if you cannot attend all of the meetings\, feel free to register for each occurrence as it fits your schedule; you must register for each separate event. This group is focused on discussion and sharing\, and participants will have the opportunity to bring examples from your own courses to share and get feedback on. We will not have a set list of readings\, but will focus on a different question or theme for each meeting\, in addition to whatever topics participants would like to address. \nContact Breana Bayraktar (bbayrakt@gmu.edu) with any questions! \nMeeting Dates & Tentative Themes\nSept 14: Starting lines — How did you introduce your grading system to students this semester?\nOct 5: First feedback cycles — What’s working in your early rounds of feedback or reassessment\, and what?\nOct 26: Resistance and confusion — How do you handle students who push back or misunderstand your approach?\nNov 16: Keeping momentum — How do you sustain student engagement with alt grading as end-of-semester pressure kicks in?\nDec 7: Institutional realities — How do you navigate final grades\, incompletes\, and systems that weren’t built for what we do?\nJan 11: One thing I’m changing — Based on last semester\, what are you iterating on and why?\nFeb 1: Revision and reassessment policies — What rules govern redos in your course\, and how are they holding up?\nFeb 22: Equity and access — Where do you see alt grading advancing equity — and where does it fall short?\nMar 15: Mid-spring check-in — What are you noticing right now about student learning\, motivation\, and stress?\nApr 5: The hard conversations — How do you talk to students about where they stand before the final stretch?\nApr 26: End-of-course practices — What does closure look like in an alt-graded course?\nMay 17: Year in review — What worked\, what didn’t\, and what are you still trying to figure out? \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/conversation-hours-advanced-alternative-grading-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Conversation Hours
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261007T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261007T100000
DTSTAMP:20260813T135522Z
CREATED:20260729T161400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T135522Z
UID:11603-1791363600-1791367200@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Motivating Students in STEM Courses
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Laina Lockett \n\nDo you teach a STEM course but feel that your students lack motivation? If you answered yes\, you aren’t alone. Since the pandemic\, professors across the country have been expressing that they have noticed a general trend in reduced student motivation. In this workshop we will discuss theories of motivation so that you can engage your students whether you teach a large class\, teach online\, have many non-majors\, or are teaching an upper-level course. You will gain tips\, tricks\, and ideas that can be implemented into your course this semester and beyond! \nPart of the Level 1 Foundational Practices in STEM Education Cluster. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above. \nDates of workshops in this Cluster:\n\nWednesday\, September 2 – 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.\nWednesday\, September 16 – 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. \nMonday\, September 14 10:00-11:00am or Tuesday\, November 3 10:00-11:00am (attend first hour of workshop)
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-motivating-students-in-stem-courses/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Cluster,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Laina Lockett":MAILTO:llocket@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261008T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261008T113000
DTSTAMP:20260702T203931Z
CREATED:20260702T202152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260702T203931Z
UID:11553-1791455400-1791459000@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Designing Effective Peer Review
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Katherine Miscavige\n\nWant to facilitate better peer review activities? This workshop introduces participants to designing effective\, outcome-aligned peer review activities that support students learning and disciplinary writing goals. Participants will leave with practical strategies they can readily adapt to their own courses. \n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-designing-effective-peer-review-3/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T205320Z
CREATED:20260825T205253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T205320Z
UID:11860-1791540000-1791543600@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Crafting an AI Policy That Reflects Your Values
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nFormerly titled “Workshop: Communicating With Students About Ethical AI Use”\n\nNot sure whether to ban AI\, embrace it\, or something in between? This hands-on session will help you move from uncertainty to clarity. Through guided frameworks\, discipline-specific examples\, and individual drafting time\, you’ll leave with a coherent\, nuanced AI policy tailored to your courses. This workshop is part of the Teaching with AI Credential. \n\n\n\n\n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-crafting-an-ai-policy-that-reflects-your-values/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261015T103000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261015T113000
DTSTAMP:20260702T204627Z
CREATED:20260702T204525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260702T204627Z
UID:11555-1792060200-1792063800@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Providing Effective and Sustainable Feedback
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Katherine Miscavige\n\nWant to develop a more sustainable and effective plan for providing feedback? This workshop focuses on key practices for increasing the impact and efficiency of the feedback you offer. We will explore the characteristics of effective feedback and strategies for implementing them. \n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-providing-effective-and-sustainable-feedback-3/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261016T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261016T110000
DTSTAMP:20260825T205200Z
CREATED:20260825T204553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T205200Z
UID:11858-1792144800-1792148400@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Beyond the Syllabus - Talking with Students About AI
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nFormerly titled “Workshop: Communicating With Students About Ethical AI Use” \nThis workshop focuses on how to talk with students about AI use in ways that build trust rather than suspicion\, respond to violations without eroding relationships\, and cultivate a classroom culture where integrity is a shared value. Through discussion\, role-play scenarios\, and practical strategies\, you’ll leave with language and approaches you can use from day one. This workshop is part of the Teaching with AI Credential. \n\n\n\n\n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-beyond-the-syllabus-talking-with-students-about-ai/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261019T113000
DTSTAMP:20260814T213827Z
CREATED:20260814T213827Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T213827Z
UID:11812-1792405800-1792409400@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: How to Handle Difficult Classroom Discussions and Situations in the Moment
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Shelley Reid\nAre you prepared to handle difficult discussions and charged situations in the classroom in the moment? Do you sometimes think of things later that you wish you would have said or done? In this workshop\, we will prepare how to handle important and potentially tense classroom conversations in the moment. Our focus will be on how to support everyone in the classroom – including yourself – during tense times. We will explore and discuss several teaching approaches. This workshop is applicable to instructors across all disciplines for facilitating important conversations\, whether or not their course topics include socially pressing issues (like race\, gender\, religion\, politics). Please note\, this is the second in a two-part series on difficult conversations. However\, participants are welcome and encouraged to attend this session even if they were not able to attend Part One. \n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-how-to-handle-difficult-classroom-discussions-and-situations-in-the-moment-4/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Shelley Reid":MAILTO:ereid1@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261023T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261023T110000
DTSTAMP:20260813T140541Z
CREATED:20260813T140541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T140541Z
UID:11747-1792749600-1792753200@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: AI Test Kitchen: Designing New Assignments
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Laina Lockett \nWhether you’re new to AI tools like Microsoft CoPilot or have a lot of AI experience\, join this session to explore prompts and discuss the role of generative AI in designing new assignments. Based on the book Teaching with AI by Bowen and Watson. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-ai-test-kitchen-designing-new-assignments/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Laina Lockett":MAILTO:llocket@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261026T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261026T150000
DTSTAMP:20260826T142329Z
CREATED:20260826T142329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T142329Z
UID:11874-1793023200-1793026800@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Conversation Hours: Advanced Alternative Grading
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nAlready using some form of alternative grading in your courses? Join colleagues who are actively implementing alternative grading practices — not to learn the basics\, but to share what’s working\, troubleshoot challenges\, and think through new ideas together. We will meet via Zoom every 3rd Monday at 2pm (dates below). \nEven if you cannot attend all of the meetings\, feel free to register for each occurrence as it fits your schedule; you must register for each separate event. This group is focused on discussion and sharing\, and participants will have the opportunity to bring examples from your own courses to share and get feedback on. We will not have a set list of readings\, but will focus on a different question or theme for each meeting\, in addition to whatever topics participants would like to address. \nContact Breana Bayraktar (bbayrakt@gmu.edu) with any questions! \nMeeting Dates & Tentative Themes\nSept 14: Starting lines — How did you introduce your grading system to students this semester?\nOct 5: First feedback cycles — What’s working in your early rounds of feedback or reassessment\, and what?\nOct 26: Resistance and confusion — How do you handle students who push back or misunderstand your approach?\nNov 16: Keeping momentum — How do you sustain student engagement with alt grading as end-of-semester pressure kicks in?\nDec 7: Institutional realities — How do you navigate final grades\, incompletes\, and systems that weren’t built for what we do?\nJan 11: One thing I’m changing — Based on last semester\, what are you iterating on and why?\nFeb 1: Revision and reassessment policies — What rules govern redos in your course\, and how are they holding up?\nFeb 22: Equity and access — Where do you see alt grading advancing equity — and where does it fall short?\nMar 15: Mid-spring check-in — What are you noticing right now about student learning\, motivation\, and stress?\nApr 5: The hard conversations — How do you talk to students about where they stand before the final stretch?\nApr 26: End-of-course practices — What does closure look like in an alt-graded course?\nMay 17: Year in review — What worked\, what didn’t\, and what are you still trying to figure out? \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/conversation-hours-advanced-alternative-grading-3/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Conversation Hours
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261029T091500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261029T094500
DTSTAMP:20260814T194449Z
CREATED:20260814T194449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T194449Z
UID:11798-1793265300-1793267100@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:STEM Education Coffee Chat
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Laina Lockett\nJoin your STEM liaison and chat about your class or anything else teaching related over a cup of coffee (or tea if that’s more your speed). Sign up for one of these small group chats\, happening this fall on select Thursday mornings. Topics are open to anything\, but we will start with a discussion of the previous week’s Teaching newsletter from Beth McMurtire at The Chronicle of Higher Education. The newsletter will be shared for those who are not already on the mailing list the 48-hours before the chat is scheduled.\n\n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/stem-education-coffee-chat/
LOCATION:Innovation Hall Rm 427\, 4699 Mattaponi River Ln\, Fairfax\, VA\, 22030\, United States
CATEGORIES:Faculty Meet-up
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261030T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261030T110000
DTSTAMP:20260813T143230Z
CREATED:20260813T141456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T143230Z
UID:11749-1793354400-1793358000@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Can AI write my ___?
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitators: Thomas Polk and Katherine Miscavige\nThis hands-on workshop invites faculty to explore how students can use Generative AI as a writing tool to assist with their assignments. Together\, we’ll experiment with AI tools at various stages of the writing process\, including brainstorming\, drafting\, and revising\, to consider the strengths and limitations of AI as a writing tool.\n\n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-can-ai-write-my-___/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261102T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261102T113000
DTSTAMP:20260814T214556Z
CREATED:20260814T214556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T214556Z
UID:11815-1793615400-1793619000@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: (Re)Designing Syllabi for Inclusive Classrooms that Support Learners & Instructors
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Shelley Reid\nAre you ready to align your current and future courses with university commitments to inclusive teaching? In this workshop\, we will work to advance our understanding of inclusive course design and how to improve syllabi\, assignments\, and activities to be more inclusive for everyone in the space (including instructors!). During the session\, we will have discussion time to focus on connecting these ideas with your course and your discipline. At the end of the workshop\, participants will leave with a greater understanding of the potential considerations and options for (re)designing inclusive courses from the foundations to the rafters. \n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-redesigning-syllabi-for-inclusive-classrooms-that-support-learners-instructors-3/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Shelley Reid":MAILTO:ereid1@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261102T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261102T152000
DTSTAMP:20260819T154723Z
CREATED:20260812T140454Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T154723Z
UID:11725-1793626200-1793632800@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Mini Course: Introduction to AI Inspired Pedagogies
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Laina Lockett\nBy now you’ve probably heard of ChatGPT or one of the other various new large language models (LLMs) that have taken the world by storm. But do you know how to deal with ever-evolving artificial intelligence technology as it relates to your teaching? In this mini course\, you will be exposed to the basics of redesigning your course as it relates to learning outcomes and instructional activities. We will also explore how to get feedback from students regarding the changes that you make. This is a five-session program; successful completion will earn participants a level 2 CPD credential which is cross-listed with the Teaching with AI Level 2 credential. Registration will be limited to the first 40 participants.\n\nThis mini-course runs weekly on Mondays\, November 2 – November 30.\n\nDates of Sessions:\nNovember 2\, 2026 1:30-3:20PM\nNovember 9\, 2026 1:30-3:20PM\nNovember 16\, 2026 1:30-3:20PM\nNovember 23\, 2026 1:30-3:20PM\nNovember 30\, 2026 1:30-3:20PM \n\n\n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/mini-course-introduction-to-ai-inspired-pedagogies-5/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Mini Course
ORGANIZER;CN="Laina Lockett":MAILTO:llocket@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261103T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261103T120000
DTSTAMP:20260731T144744Z
CREATED:20260731T144744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T144744Z
UID:11638-1793700000-1793707200@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Cluster: High Impact Practices Part 1
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Crystal Anderson\nAre you interested in developing learning experiences where students can apply their skills and competencies in and beyond the classrooms? In this first of a two-part series\, you will participate in two workshops. The Fundamentals of Effective Teaching (Required) workshop explains the critical elements of teaching today’s students. The High-Impact Practices (HIPs) and Applied Learning (Design) workshop shows you how to use transparent assignment design for courses with internships\, undergraduate research and project-based learning. \nBy completing Part 1 and Part 2\, you can earn a CPD Level 1 Teaching Essentials Credential as part of Stearns Center’s Continuing Professional Development program. If you also complete the Mason Core Enhancement “Solving the Puzzle” workshop\, you can earn the Level 1: Certified Mason Core Instructor Certification. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/cluster-high-impact-practices-part-1-4/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Cluster
ORGANIZER;CN="Crystal Anderson":MAILTO:cander8@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261105T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261105T120000
DTSTAMP:20260731T145822Z
CREATED:20260731T145822Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T145822Z
UID:11640-1793872800-1793880000@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Cluster: High Impact Practices Part 2
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Crystal Anderson\nAre you interested in developing learning experiences where students can apply their skills and competencies in and beyond the classrooms? In the second of this two-part series\, you will participate in two workshops. The Implementing High Impact Practices (Engage) workshop shows you how to get students involved in their own learning. The Grading High-Impact Practices (Assess) workshop shows you how to assess nonstandard cumulative assignments\, like research\, projects\, or internships. \nBy completing Part 1 and Part 2\, you can earn a CPD Level 1 Teaching Essentials Credential as part of Stearns Center’s Continuing Professional Development program. If you also complete the Mason Core Enhancement “Solving the Puzzle” workshop\, you can earn the Level 1: Certified Mason Core Instructor Certification. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/cluster-high-impact-practices-part-2-4/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Cluster
ORGANIZER;CN="Crystal Anderson":MAILTO:cander8@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261106T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261106T120000
DTSTAMP:20260731T150934Z
CREATED:20260731T150934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260731T150934Z
UID:11642-1793962800-1793966400@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Solving the Puzzle: Engaging Non-Majors in Mason Core Courses
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Laura Poms\nHow could teaching a Mason Core course possibly be any different from teaching a major course? There are an array of reasons\, resulting in some interesting instructional challenges. By definition\, the majority of students in Mason Core courses are non-majors. What does this mean for student engagement\, course content coverage\, scaffolding\, assignment design and even student support? This workshop focuses on the differences between teaching a major course and one with the broader learning outcomes associated with a Mason Core course. Whether this is your first time teaching a Mason Core course or you are a seasoned veteran\, this workshop will help you develop new strategies for increasing student engagement and success while better managing the additional workload that often comes with teaching a general education course. \nBy completing this workshop in addition to the High Impact Practices Cluster Parts 1 & 2\, you can earn the Level 1: Certified Mason Core Instructor Certification. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-solving-the-puzzle-engaging-non-majors-in-mason-core-courses-5/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Laura Poms":MAILTO:lpoms@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261113T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261113T110000
DTSTAMP:20260729T163329Z
CREATED:20260729T134423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260729T163329Z
UID:11592-1794564000-1794567600@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Grading and Feedback Strategies that Work for Your Workload
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitators: Crystal Anderson and Stephanie Bluth\n\nDo you want to grade efficiently? Do you want students to use your feedback to improve their performance on assignments? In this workshop\, graduate instructors will consider a case study on how to adapt grading to changing circumstances. They will also learn how to use rubrics as well as how to avoid and respond to grade challenges from students. Participants will also engage in discussion with fellow graduate instructors. \nOpen to all graduate students\, this workshop is required for the SkillCraft Level 1 Essentials Credential. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-grading-and-feedback-strategies-that-work-for-your-workload-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Stephanie Bluth":MAILTO:sbluth@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261116T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261116T150000
DTSTAMP:20260826T142409Z
CREATED:20260826T142409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T142409Z
UID:11877-1794837600-1794841200@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Conversation Hours: Advanced Alternative Grading
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nAlready using some form of alternative grading in your courses? Join colleagues who are actively implementing alternative grading practices — not to learn the basics\, but to share what’s working\, troubleshoot challenges\, and think through new ideas together. We will meet via Zoom every 3rd Monday at 2pm (dates below). \nEven if you cannot attend all of the meetings\, feel free to register for each occurrence as it fits your schedule; you must register for each separate event. This group is focused on discussion and sharing\, and participants will have the opportunity to bring examples from your own courses to share and get feedback on. We will not have a set list of readings\, but will focus on a different question or theme for each meeting\, in addition to whatever topics participants would like to address. \nContact Breana Bayraktar (bbayrakt@gmu.edu) with any questions! \nMeeting Dates & Tentative Themes\nSept 14: Starting lines — How did you introduce your grading system to students this semester?\nOct 5: First feedback cycles — What’s working in your early rounds of feedback or reassessment\, and what?\nOct 26: Resistance and confusion — How do you handle students who push back or misunderstand your approach?\nNov 16: Keeping momentum — How do you sustain student engagement with alt grading as end-of-semester pressure kicks in?\nDec 7: Institutional realities — How do you navigate final grades\, incompletes\, and systems that weren’t built for what we do?\nJan 11: One thing I’m changing — Based on last semester\, what are you iterating on and why?\nFeb 1: Revision and reassessment policies — What rules govern redos in your course\, and how are they holding up?\nFeb 22: Equity and access — Where do you see alt grading advancing equity — and where does it fall short?\nMar 15: Mid-spring check-in — What are you noticing right now about student learning\, motivation\, and stress?\nApr 5: The hard conversations — How do you talk to students about where they stand before the final stretch?\nApr 26: End-of-course practices — What does closure look like in an alt-graded course?\nMay 17: Year in review — What worked\, what didn’t\, and what are you still trying to figure out? \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/conversation-hours-advanced-alternative-grading-4/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Conversation Hours
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261202T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261202T100000
DTSTAMP:20260827T194836Z
CREATED:20260811T161105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260827T194836Z
UID:11720-1796202000-1796205600@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: To AI or not to AI? Key Considerations for Your Classroom
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitators: Laina Lockett & Breana Bayraktar\nIn this session\, we will review the Stearns Center’s AI Quick Start Guide. Topics include discussing the most common questions asked by GMU faculty about AI\, reviewing recommended resources including the GMU Guidelines for Faculty and Students\, demonstrate some of the tools that are available to use\, and consider ethical considerations for tool usage as instructors.\n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-to-ai-or-not-to-ai-key-considerations-for-your-classroom-5/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Laina Lockett":MAILTO:llocket@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261202T101500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261202T111500
DTSTAMP:20260903T221553Z
CREATED:20260903T221553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T221553Z
UID:12073-1796206500-1796210100@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Crafting an AI Policy That Reflects Your Values
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nFormerly titled “Workshop: Communicating With Students About Ethical AI Use”\n\nNot sure whether to ban AI\, embrace it\, or something in between? This hands-on session will help you move from uncertainty to clarity. Through guided frameworks\, discipline-specific examples\, and individual drafting time\, you’ll leave with a coherent\, nuanced AI policy tailored to your courses. This workshop is part of the Teaching with AI Credential. \n\n\n\n\n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-crafting-an-ai-policy-that-reflects-your-values-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261203T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261203T100000
DTSTAMP:20260903T221843Z
CREATED:20260903T221843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T221843Z
UID:12076-1796288400-1796292000@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Beyond the Syllabus - Talking with Students About AI
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nFormerly titled “Workshop: Communicating With Students About Ethical AI Use” \nThis workshop focuses on how to talk with students about AI use in ways that build trust rather than suspicion\, respond to violations without eroding relationships\, and cultivate a classroom culture where integrity is a shared value. Through discussion\, role-play scenarios\, and practical strategies\, you’ll leave with language and approaches you can use from day one. This workshop is part of the Teaching with AI Credential. \n\n\n\n\n*Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-beyond-the-syllabus-talking-with-students-about-ai-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261204T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261204T100000
DTSTAMP:20260903T130850Z
CREATED:20260903T130629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T130850Z
UID:12046-1796374800-1796378400@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:AI Test Kitchen: Reducing Ambiguity
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitator: Laina Lockett \nWhether you’re new to AI tools like Microsoft CoPilot or have a lot of AI experience\, join this session to explore in-depth prompting to reduce unnecessary barriers in assignment instructions or your syllabus using a Universal Design for Learning Framework. This session is based on the book The Science of Learning Meets AI by Ludwig and Zakrajsek. Please have access to at least one of the following to get the most out of this session: assignment instructions\, syllabus\, or project description. *Participation in past AI Test Kitchens is not required. This workshop is part of the Teaching with AI Credential. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/ai-test-kitchen-reducing-ambiguity/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Test Kitchen
ORGANIZER;CN="Laina Lockett":MAILTO:llocket@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261204T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261204T110000
DTSTAMP:20260729T163318Z
CREATED:20260729T135523Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260729T163318Z
UID:11594-1796378400-1796382000@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Creating a Dynamic Classroom Climate
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitators: Crystal Anderson and Stephanie Bluth\n\nDo you want to learn how to leverage class policies to enhance your rapport with your class? In this workshop\, graduate instructors will consider a case study on how to improve student performance. They will also learn how to set the stage for successful management of a course\, including the development of a teaching persona and creating class policies that work. Participants will also engage in discussion with fellow graduate instructors. \nOpen to all graduate students\, this workshop is required for the SkillCraft Level 1 Essentials Credential. \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-creating-a-dynamic-classroom-climate-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ORGANIZER;CN="Stephanie Bluth":MAILTO:sbluth@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261204T101500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261204T111500
DTSTAMP:20260813T143315Z
CREATED:20260813T142740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T143315Z
UID:11751-1796379300-1796382900@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Workshop: Can AI write my ___?
DESCRIPTION:Register Here | Facilitators: Thomas Polk and Katherine Miscavige \nThis hands-on workshop invites faculty to explore how students can use Generative AI as a writing tool to assist with their assignments. Together\, we’ll experiment with AI tools at various stages of the writing process\, including brainstorming\, drafting\, and revising\, to consider the strengths and limitations of AI as a writing tool.\n\n\n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/workshop-can-ai-write-my-___-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:AI Series,Workshop
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261207T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261207T150000
DTSTAMP:20260826T142442Z
CREATED:20260826T142442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T142442Z
UID:11880-1796652000-1796655600@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Conversation Hours: Advanced Alternative Grading
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nAlready using some form of alternative grading in your courses? Join colleagues who are actively implementing alternative grading practices — not to learn the basics\, but to share what’s working\, troubleshoot challenges\, and think through new ideas together. We will meet via Zoom every 3rd Monday at 2pm (dates below). \nEven if you cannot attend all of the meetings\, feel free to register for each occurrence as it fits your schedule; you must register for each separate event. This group is focused on discussion and sharing\, and participants will have the opportunity to bring examples from your own courses to share and get feedback on. We will not have a set list of readings\, but will focus on a different question or theme for each meeting\, in addition to whatever topics participants would like to address. \nContact Breana Bayraktar (bbayrakt@gmu.edu) with any questions! \nMeeting Dates & Tentative Themes\nSept 14: Starting lines — How did you introduce your grading system to students this semester?\nOct 5: First feedback cycles — What’s working in your early rounds of feedback or reassessment\, and what?\nOct 26: Resistance and confusion — How do you handle students who push back or misunderstand your approach?\nNov 16: Keeping momentum — How do you sustain student engagement with alt grading as end-of-semester pressure kicks in?\nDec 7: Institutional realities — How do you navigate final grades\, incompletes\, and systems that weren’t built for what we do?\nJan 11: One thing I’m changing — Based on last semester\, what are you iterating on and why?\nFeb 1: Revision and reassessment policies — What rules govern redos in your course\, and how are they holding up?\nFeb 22: Equity and access — Where do you see alt grading advancing equity — and where does it fall short?\nMar 15: Mid-spring check-in — What are you noticing right now about student learning\, motivation\, and stress?\nApr 5: The hard conversations — How do you talk to students about where they stand before the final stretch?\nApr 26: End-of-course practices — What does closure look like in an alt-graded course?\nMay 17: Year in review — What worked\, what didn’t\, and what are you still trying to figure out? \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/conversation-hours-advanced-alternative-grading-5/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Conversation Hours
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270111T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270111T150000
DTSTAMP:20260826T142514Z
CREATED:20260826T142514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260826T142514Z
UID:11883-1799676000-1799679600@stearnscenter.gmu.edu
SUMMARY:Conversation Hours: Advanced Alternative Grading
DESCRIPTION:Register here | Facilitator: Breana Bayraktar\nAlready using some form of alternative grading in your courses? Join colleagues who are actively implementing alternative grading practices — not to learn the basics\, but to share what’s working\, troubleshoot challenges\, and think through new ideas together. We will meet via Zoom every 3rd Monday at 2pm (dates below). \nEven if you cannot attend all of the meetings\, feel free to register for each occurrence as it fits your schedule; you must register for each separate event. This group is focused on discussion and sharing\, and participants will have the opportunity to bring examples from your own courses to share and get feedback on. We will not have a set list of readings\, but will focus on a different question or theme for each meeting\, in addition to whatever topics participants would like to address. \nContact Breana Bayraktar (bbayrakt@gmu.edu) with any questions! \nMeeting Dates & Tentative Themes\nSept 14: Starting lines — How did you introduce your grading system to students this semester?\nOct 5: First feedback cycles — What’s working in your early rounds of feedback or reassessment\, and what?\nOct 26: Resistance and confusion — How do you handle students who push back or misunderstand your approach?\nNov 16: Keeping momentum — How do you sustain student engagement with alt grading as end-of-semester pressure kicks in?\nDec 7: Institutional realities — How do you navigate final grades\, incompletes\, and systems that weren’t built for what we do?\nJan 11: One thing I’m changing — Based on last semester\, what are you iterating on and why?\nFeb 1: Revision and reassessment policies — What rules govern redos in your course\, and how are they holding up?\nFeb 22: Equity and access — Where do you see alt grading advancing equity — and where does it fall short?\nMar 15: Mid-spring check-in — What are you noticing right now about student learning\, motivation\, and stress?\nApr 5: The hard conversations — How do you talk to students about where they stand before the final stretch?\nApr 26: End-of-course practices — What does closure look like in an alt-graded course?\nMay 17: Year in review — What worked\, what didn’t\, and what are you still trying to figure out? \n* Adding to your calendar will not register you for the event; please register using the link above.
URL:https://stearnscenter.gmu.edu/event/conversation-hours-advanced-alternative-grading-6/
LOCATION:Zoom\, You will be able to view the Zoom link upon registering.
CATEGORIES:Conversation Hours
ORGANIZER;CN="Breana Bayraktar":MAILTO:bbayrakt@gmu.edu
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR