Scaffolding Success: Dr. Koloutsou-Vakakis on Collaboration, Coding, and Curriculum Reform
Dr. Sotiria Koloutsou-Vakakis, Senior Lecturer and Research Scientist in Civil and Environmental Engineering, joins SIIP and Share to discuss her SIIP project focused on integrating computational thinking across the civil and environmental engineering curriculum. She shares how her team introduced tools like R and Python into 200- and 300-level courses, redesigned assignments to reflect real-world engineering challenges, and connected coding to societal impact. The episode highlights the role of community-driven curriculum design, shifting student perceptions of coding, and how embedding computation into engineering education better prepares students to solve complex, real-world problems.
Guest(s): Sotiria Koloutsou-Vakakis
Link:https://cee.illinois.edu/directory/profile/sotiriak
Host: Holly Golecki
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Natalie Taylor and Evelyn Ochoa Arias
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1 May 2026
Early Research and Real-World Impact: Marci Pool on Cancer Scholars, Mentorship, and Transforming Engineering Education
Dr. Marci Pool, Assistant Director of Education at the Cancer Center at Illinois and Teaching Associate Professor in Bioengineering, joins SIIP and Share to discuss the Cancer Scholars program, a long-running SIIP initiative designed to engage students in cancer research from their first year. She shares how the program integrates research, mentorship, and interdisciplinary coursework to build students’ skills in experimental design, science communication, and innovation. The episode highlights the importance of early research exposure, supporting first-generation students, and creating pathways that connect engineering education to real-world healthcare challenges and long-term impact in cancer research.
Guest(s): Marci Pool
Link: https://cancer.illinois.edu/people/marcia-marci-pool/ Host: Blake Johnson
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Natalie Taylor and Evelyn Ochoa Arias
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Visit the SIIP and Share website (https://publish.illinois.edu/siipandshare/)
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28 Apr 2026
Teaching at Scale with AI: Abdu Alawini on Generative AI, Personalized Feedback, and the Future of Engineering Education
Dr. Abdu Alawini, Teaching Associate Professor in the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science, joins SIIP and Share to discuss his SIIP project exploring generative AI in engineering and computing education. He shares how AI-powered tools, such as personalized feedback systems, knowledge graphs, and Illinois Chat, support learning at scale while preserving meaningful instructor -student connections. The episode highlights ethical considerations, curriculum redesign, and how AI can help prepare students for an evolving, technology-driven workforce.
Guest(s): Abdu Alawini
Link: https://siebelschool.illinois.edu/about/people/faculty/alawini (https://ece.illinois.edu/about/directory/faculty/ywchen)
Host: Holly Golecki
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Natalie Taylor and Evelyn Ochoa Arias
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Visit the SIIP and Share website (https://publish.illinois.edu/siipandshare/)
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24 Apr 2026
Writing to Learn in Engineering: John Popovics on Technical Communication and Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
Dr. John Popovics, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, joins SIIP and Share to discuss his SIIP work on improving technical writing in engineering education. He shares how collaboration between engineering and writing studies faculty led to practical strategies for teaching communication, supporting TAs, and helping students learn through writing. The episode highlights faculty development, scalable instructional change, and how SIIP projects support education research.
Guest(s): John Popovics
Link: https://cee.illinois.edu/directory/profile/johnpop
Host: Jenny Amos
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Natalie Taylor and Evelyn Ochoa Arias
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21 Apr 2026
Rethinking Exams at Scale: Craig Zilles on Computer-Based Testing, Assessment, and Academic Integrity
Dr. Craig Zilles, Professor of Computer Science, joins SIIP and Share to discuss the development and impact of Illinois’s Computer-Based Testing Facility (CBTF), which began as a SIIP project. He shares how CBTF enables flexible, secure, and scalable assessment for large-enrollment courses, supports frequent low-stakes testing, and addresses academic integrity challenges in the age of generative AI. The episode highlights how thoughtful assessment design can enhance student learning, alleviate anxiety, and transform instructional practices.
Guest(s): Craig Zilles
Link: https://siebelschool.illinois.edu/about/people/faculty/zilles (https://ece.illinois.edu/about/directory/faculty/ywchen)
Host: Blake Johnson
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Natalie Taylor and Evelyn Ochoa Arias
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16 Apr 2026
Bringing Parallel Computing into the Classroom: Yuting Wu Chen on Curriculum Innovation and Teaching at Scale
Dr. Yuting Wu Chen, Teaching Associate Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering, joins SIIP and Share to discuss her SIIP project, which focuses on modernizing the ECE curriculum by introducing parallel computing concepts earlier in students’ academic journey. She shares how her team developed scalable, modular learning experiences, integrated through flipped classroom techniques and supported by extra credit opportunities, to enhance engagement in large-enrollment courses. The episode highlights cross-course collaboration, the role of teaching assistants in curriculum development, and how early exposure to emerging computing concepts can better prepare students for advanced coursework and evolving industry demands.
Guest(s): Yuting Wu Chen
Link: https://ece.illinois.edu/about/directory/faculty/ywchen (https://ece.illinois.edu/about/directory/faculty/ywchen)
Host: Blake Johnson
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Natalie Taylor and Evelyn Ochoa Arias
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Visit the SIIP and Share website (https://publish.illinois.edu/siipandshare/)
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20 Nov 2025
PrairieLearn, Group Work, and the Future of Teaching: A Conversation with Dr. Silva
Dr. Mariana Silva discusses her evolution from mechanical engineering to educational innovation, focusing on computer-based learning and PrairieLearn, in an interview with Dr. Ashleigh Wright.
13 Nov 2025
From Circuits to Storylines: How Games Engage Engineering Students
Holly Golecki interviews Dr. Ali Ansari, who reveals how he uses games and playful challenges to teach complex engineering concepts, making learning more engaging and accessible for students.
6 Nov 2025
From Data to Design: Dr. Hongye Liu on Universal Design for Learning
Holly Golecki interviews Dr. Hongye Liu about her work on Universal Design for Learning, practical teaching tips, and transforming lecture videos into searchable course books, ultimately improving education for all students.
24 Apr 2025
The Origins of SIIP: Chuck Tucker on Improving Engineering Education
On this episode of SIIP and Share, Professor Chuck Tucker discusses the origins and impact of the Strategic Instructional Innovations Program, which has transformed Illinois engineering education since 2012. Tucker shares insights on improving foundational engineering courses, the evolution of specialized faculty roles, and the power of community-building among educators. Learn how SIIP is driving sustainable teaching innovations and shaping the future of engineering instruction.Keep the conversation going!
Guest: Chuck Tucker (https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-tucker-5bbb0821/)
Host: Blake Johnson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-johnson-1a927765/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
Visit the SIIP and Share website (https://publish.illinois.edu/siipandshare/)
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22 Apr 2025
Transforming Teamwork in Computer Science Courses: Brian Bailey on Data-Driven Solutions
Professor Brian Bailey explores the science of teamwork in engineering education at the University of Illinois, sharingfindings from his SIIP project on team-based learning and effective team formation. He discusses the use of tools like CatMe and his own data-driven system to optimize collaboration among students in large classes. Learn howthis work is revolutionizing peer evaluations, providing real-time feedback on team dynamics, and improving the way engineering students work together.
Keep the conversation going!
Guest: Brian Bailey (https://siebelschool.illinois.edu/about/people/faculty/bpbailey)
Host: Holly Golecki (https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-golecki/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
Visit the SIIP and Share website (https://publish.illinois.edu/siipandshare/)
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17 Apr 2025
Running Toward Innovation: Dr. Jenny Amos on Teaching, Mentorship, and Half-Marathons
In this episode of SIIP and Share, Dr. Jenny Amos shares herjourney as a bioengineering educator, delving into curriculum development, accreditation challenges, and her SIIP project, creating a global healthcare technology certificate to prepare students for engineering careers with an international perspective. Dr. Amos also reflects on how her passion for running keeps her grounded, offering parallels between endurance in sport and resilience in academia.
Keep the conversation going!
Guest: Dr. Jenny Amos (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-amos-39574519/)
Host: Dr. Holly Golecki (https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-golecki/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
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15 Apr 2025
Bridging Borders in Engineering: Brian Woodard on the Power of International Learning & Collaboration
Dr. Brian Woodard discusses his work on the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project, a SIIP initiative that expands global learning opportunities for engineering students. Woodard shares how COIL develops international collaboration, enhances cultural competencies, and prepares students for the global workforce—such as aerospace engineering partnerships in Brazil. Tune into SIIP and Share for what’s next for global engagement in engineering education.
Keep the conversation going!
Guest: Brian Woodard (https://aerospace.illinois.edu/directory/profile/bswoodrd)
Host: Holly Golecki (https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-golecki/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
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10 Apr 2025
Lights, Camera, MATLAB: Dallas Trinkle’s Journey from Filmmaking to Teaching Engineering
Professor Dallas Trinkle speaks to SIIP and Share about his work integrating computational tools like MATLAB, Python, and finite element methods into materials science courses. He has insights on aligning engineering curricula with industry needs, training faculty and computational TAs, and fostering sustainable educational innovation. Trinkle also shares a behind-the-scenes look at his unexpected journey from filmmaking and swing dancing.
Check out papers on this topic:
Impact of Computation in Undergraduate Curriculum : Alumni Perspective (https://peer.asee.org/impact-of-computation-in-undergraduate-curriculum-alumni-perspective)Impact of Integrating Computation into Undergraduate Curriculum: New Modules and Long-term Trends (https://peer.asee.org/impact-of-integrating-computation-into-undergraduate-curriculum-new-modules-and-long-term-trends)Guest: Dallas Trinkle (https://matse.illinois.edu/people/profile/dtrinkle)
Host: Holly Golecki (https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-golecki/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
Keep the conversation going!
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8 Apr 2025
The Power of Course Connections: Tom Golecki on Making Interdisciplinary Learning Accessible
Dr. Tom Golecki, PE, SE, joins SIIP & Share to discuss a new SIIP project focused on creating connections among courses in the Grainger College of Engineering. A professor in large mechanical engineering courses, Dr. Golecki and his team aim to help students connect course contents to enhance their educational pathway at Illinois. Learn how this initiative is enhancing student learning, strengthening knowledge retention, and fostering collaboration across engineering disciplines—without adding extra work for faculty.
Keep the conversation going!
Guest: Tom Golecki (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-golecki/)
Host: Blake Johnson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-johnson-1a927765/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
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4 Apr 2025
Beyond Textbooks: Mariana Kersh on Open-Access Resources for Engineering Students
Professor Mariana Kersh joins SIIP and Share to discuss her team’s innovative work developing open educational resources for fundamental mechanics courses. Kersh shares how interactive, web-based tools are boosting student engagement, improving accessibility for transfer students, and making complex engineering concepts more relatable. Learn how these digital resources are reshaping engineering learning at scale, fostering curiosity, and building connections in the community.
Check out the MechSE Reference Pages here: https://www.mechref.org/ (https://www.mechref.org/)
Keep the conversation going!
Guest: Mariana Kersh (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariana-kersh-14a810b/)
Host: Holly Golecki (https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-golecki/)
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/piper-pascarella-aba19b276/)
Produced by: Colleen King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenking1/)
Visit the SIIP and Share website (https://publish.illinois.edu/siipandshare/)
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31 Mar 2025
Behind the Scenes of SIIP: Faculty Collaboration, Grants, and Lasting Change for Students with Jay Mann & Chris Migotsky
The Academy for Excellence in Engineering Education’s Jay Mann and Chris Migotsky offer a behind-the-scenes view of the Strategic Instructional Innovations Program (SIIP) in the Grainger College of Engineering. They discuss how SIIP supports faculty-led educational innovations, from TA training programs to the development of the PrairieLearn assessment system. Discover how shared leadership, data-driven strategies, and a strong community of practice are driving improvements in Illinois engineering education.
Link to more information about SIIP & AE3: https://ae3.grainger.illinois.edu/programs/siip-grants (https://ae3.grainger.illinois.edu/programs/siip-grants)
Guest(s): Jay Mann and Chris Migotsky
Host: Ashleigh Wright
Engineered by: Piper Pascarella
Produced by: Colleen King
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Who has been a guest on SIIP and Share Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Dr Mariana Silva
Dr Ali Ansari
Dr Hongye Liu
Reach and audience
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
8 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
60
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
51
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