16th Annual Learning Technologies Week Program

Dr. Kele Anyanwu, Associate Professor, Department of Educational Programs AI That Acts, Not Just Answers: Introducing Agentic Systems for Educators 1:15 – 2:15 P.M. (CST) CWT 112 Description: Artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving in higher education, moving beyond reactive tools like ChatGPT toward more advanced agentic systems that can interpret context, set goals, and take action. This session demystifies key AI concepts such as generative AI, AI agents, agentic AI, Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), workflows, and automation, and explains their relevance to teaching and learning. Participants will explore how simple agentic systems can be designed using no code tools that prioritize pedagogy over technical complexity. Faculty will leave with a clearer understanding of agentic AI, its ethical use, and how to thoughtfully integrate these tools into course design, whether they are AI skeptics or enthusiasts. Dr. Lina De La Garza, Assistant Professor of Educational Administration A Guaranteed Powerful Transformation: Using GPTs to Enhance Professional Success 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. (CST) STC 230 Description: This session explores the value of AI literacy and how using GPT-based tools as thought partners and collaborators can support professional growth and success. Participants will examine practical ways artificial intelligence can assist with idea development, problem-solving, and meeting professional goals across a variety of contexts. Emphasis is placed on building comfort and confidence with AI tools while using them responsibly and effectively. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how GPTs can enhance productivity, support decision-making, and contribute to meaningful professional transformation. Daniel González, Lecturer, Division of International Business & Technology Studies AI That Works In Your Classroom: Practical Tools for Better Teaching and Learning 3:30– 4:30 P.M. (CST) STC 230 Description: This session offers faculty and staff a clear, practical look at how AI can support teaching without adding stress or complexity. Participants will explore two tools that can be used immediately. Blackboard’s AI discussion post feature helps instructors create stronger prompts, encourage deeper student thinking, and manage discussions with less preparation time. NotebookLM allows instructors to turn course materials into short podcasts or videos that summarize content, explain module goals, or clarify readings and assignments. Through real examples, attendees will see how AI can support accessibility, diverse learning needs, and course outcomes while remaining transparent, ethical, and focused on saving time and improving clarity. Dr. Hongwei Wang, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics and Physics No More Sneaky Solutions: How Faculty + eLearning Tech Stopped Cheating Description: Cheating in large, foundational mathematics courses such as College Algebra presents ongoing challenges to academic integrity and fairness. In this session, Dr. Hongwei Wang shares her experience implementing a proactive, collaborative approach to reducing cheating in College Algebra exams. Working closely with TAMIU’s eLearning team, she developed structured exam protocols, monitoring strategies, and technology-supported procedures that significantly reduced dishonest behavior. Attendees will learn practical, adaptable strategies for exam administration, communication, and enforcement, along with real classroom examples that demonstrate how thoughtful procedural changes can strengthen integrity, accountability, and course culture. 9:45 – 10:45 A.M. (CST) STC 230 Monday, 2/9/26 REGISTER FOR SESSIONS AT trainings.tamiu.edu Ivette Soto, TAMIU Instructional Designer Increasing Student Engagement with Harmonize 2:30– 3:15 P.M. (CST) CWT 112 Description: This session introduces Harmonize, an educational technology currently being piloted at TAMIU, and explores how it can support student engagement beyond traditional discussions. Similar to tools like VoiceThread, Harmonize allows for multimedia interaction, peer feedback, and reflection, but with added flexibility for low-stakes activities, inclusive participation, and streamlined integration in Blackboard Ultra. Faculty will leave with practical ideas for using Harmonize while keeping workload manageable.

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