Keynote
Eric Mazur
Dr. Eric Mazur is the Balkanski Professor of Physics and Applied Physics at Harvard University and Area Dean of Applied Physics. An internationally recognized scientist and researcher, he leads a vigorous research program in optical physics and supervises one of the largest research groups in the Physic Department at Harvard University. Dr. Mazur has made important contributions to spectroscopy, light scattering, the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with materials, and nanophotonics.
Dr. Mazur is author or co-author of close to three hundred scientific publications, numerous patents, and several books, including Peer Instruction: A User’s Manual (Prentice Hall, 1997), a book that explains how to teach large lecture classes interactively, and Principles and Practice of Physics (Pearson, 2014), a book that presents a groundbreaking new approach to teaching introductory calculus-based physics. Mazur is a sought-after speaker on optics and on education.
Open Innovation Challenge
Immediately following lunch, the Symposium had the first ever Open Innovation Challenge that provided 6 faculty a high-profile speaking opportunity to present new innovative ideas about anything that enhances teaching and learning in higher education. Select innovators were given an opportunity to showcase their ideas in a set of fast-paced five-minute presentations. The audience then had the opportunity to vote on their favorite ideas.
Innovation Panel
For the first time ever, the Symposium closed the day with an Innovation Panel that over 200 attendees attended in President’s Hall. The panel featured three leaders in the world of educational technology who shared their ideas on hot topics in educational technology and discussing their most exciting and innovative work. Those panelists included Katie Vale, Director of Digital Learning, Harvard University; Tom Cavanagh, Associate Vice President of Distributed Learning, University of Central Florida; and Peter Doolittle, Executive Director for the Center for Instructional Development and Educational Research, Virginia Tech. This panel was moderated by ETS Director, Kyle Bowen.
