This summer, the Grove Center is offering a variety of workshops to help you prepare for fall. Sessions include hands-on 3D printing, accessibility, course design, syllabus preparation, and the latest in AI for teaching and learning.

Of special note, for the 3D printing sessions, we are excited to collaborate with the Teaching and Learning with Technology Media/Maker Commons team at Penn State, who will provide expert instruction and access to resources such as the 3D printing farm, 3D scanners, and specialized software!

All faculty are welcome to join and explore new ideas for the classroom. Sessions will be in-person only and in 16 or 243 Ritenour Building. When you register, we will send you the location.

Register here.

Summer Session Schedule

Each session meets from noon to 1:00 p.m.

"Say What You See with Carly: Writing Alt Text and Long Descriptions" 

July 9
Learn the fundamentals of writing a good image description that meets accessibility guidelines and how to add it to your content. You will gain the skills to assess your images to decide between using alt text or a long description.

"Reflective Practice in Action with Melissa: Grove Center Resources and Tools"

July 9
Learn about Grove Center resources and tools to support your teaching journey.

"3D with Sey: Snap, Scan, Print!" 

July 9
Hands-on session covering custom 3D model creation using modeling, photogrammetry, LiDAR, and 3D scanning. Includes live demos and printing opportunities.

"Syllabus Prep with Melissa: First Impressions Count—Welcoming Students Through Your Syllabus" 

July 16
Discover ways to make your syllabus inviting and student-centered. Learn strategies for setting a positive tone, building trust, and helping students feel welcomed from day one.

"AI With Sey: The Need to Know" 

July 23
Covers key points for using AI in the classroom: syllabus statements, AI icons, assignment guidelines, Penn State AI policies, and academic integrity strategies.

"No Sound? No Problem! Captioning Videos in Kaltura with Carly" 

July 23
Get started with the Penn State licensed video service, Kaltura. Learn how to navigate your Kaltura account, upload videos, and edit the automatic captions that Kaltura generates for accuracy and accessibility guidelines.

"Format With Access in Mind: Word and PDF Essentials" 

July 30
Learn how to prepare and organize your digital documents to meet federal guidelines and make them accessible for all users.

"Syllabus Prep with Melissa: Making Syllabus Policies Clear, Fair, and Inclusive" 

July 30
Explore how to communicate course policies so they are transparent, equitable, and accessible to all students. We’ll discuss inclusive language and approaches that support student success.

"AI with Sey: Design with AI in Mind" 

August 6
Brainstorm AI-informed assignment ideas and explore both AI-integrated and restricted designs. Learn about AI tools and develop strategies for classroom use or limitation.

"Syllabus Prep With Melissa: Syllabus as a Roadmap – Making Course Structure and Resources Visible" 

August 6
Transform your syllabus into a clear guide for students. Learn how to outline course structure, highlight key resources, and help students navigate the semester with confidence.

"AI with Sey: Test the Tool!" 

August 13
Hands-on exploration of AI tools like Google Notebook LM, Adobe Firefly, and ChatGPT. See demos, test workflows, and get assignment ideas for student engagement.

"Ready for Fall: Accessibility Prep and Student Accommodations" 

August 13
Learn how to review and prepare your course to meet federal accessibility requirements and any student accommodation you may receive.

"Syllabus Prep with Melissa: Visual and Accessible Design"

August 13
Enhance the look and usability of your syllabus. This session covers design tips and accessibility best practices so your syllabus is easy to read and welcoming to every learner.