The Hawkes Edge Podcast

Insightful discussions on teaching, technology, and transformation.

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The Hawkes Edge

The Hawkes Edge brings you insightful discussions on teaching, technology, and transformation in higher education. Each episode features conversations with educators, innovators, and thought leaders who are shaping the future of learning. From practical classroom strategies to emerging trends like AI, we explore what it takes to drive meaningful student success and what’s next for education.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Season 1 Episode 4

From Graphs to Insight-Using Technology to Deepen Student Understanding with Emily Carpenter

In this episode of The Hawkes Edge, Valerie sits down with instructor Emily Carpenter to explore how technology can help students better understand math and statistics concepts through multiple representations. From Desmos and Microsoft Excel to the TI-84 Plus, Emily shares how different tools allow students to visualize, calculate, and interact with concepts in ways that deepen understanding and build confidence. Together, they discuss how seeing the same concept through multiple lenses can help learning “click” for different students.

The conversation also explores the evolving role of AI in education and how tools like Hawkes AI Tutor can complement traditional instructional technologies by guiding students step-by-step through problem-solving. Emily offers practical advice for instructors feeling overwhelmed by the growing number of digital tools and reflects on what meaningful transformation in education looks like today: creating learning experiences that prioritize understanding, engagement, and accessibility for every student.

Season 1 Episode 3

A Student’s Perspective on Technology and AI in Higher Ed

We recently chatted with Trenton Jeffers, a senior at Prairie View A&M University, who shared how AI shifted his approach to studying.
In his first year, he relied on basic tools like YouTube and calculators, but AI wasn’t even in the picture then. Fast forward to now, and AI has become his instant tutor—answering questions at any hour, helping him understand complex topics, and even aiding in building a gaming PC!

What stood out? The way AI offers immediate, personalized support without replacing the critical thinking he values. Trenton is cautious about overreliance (using AI as a guide, not a crutch) and recognizes its dual edge: great for learning, but a temptation to cheat. This honesty helps us see that AI isn’t about cheating; it’s about finding new ways to learn smarter!

Season 1 Episode 2

Beyond the Buzzwords: AI, Gamification, and Real Student Engagement with Jesse Melvin, PhD

From the role of generative AI in supporting, not replacing student learning, to the power of gamification in increasing motivation and participation, this conversation dives into practical, in-the-classroom strategies that are making a real impact. Dr. Melvin shares how he’s experimenting with course design, leveraging data to identify struggling students early, and using AI.

Together, they challenge the hype around AI and refocus the conversation on what matters most: creating intentional, human-centered learning experiences that meet students where they are.

If you’re an educator, administrator, or edtech professional trying to navigate the evolving role of AI in higher education, this episode offers a grounded, thoughtful perspective on what actually works—and what’s next.

Season 1 Episode 1

AI in Higher Ed with Scott Virkler, CEO of Hawkes Learning

This conversation with Hawkes Learning CEO Scott Virkler explores the role of AI in higher education, focusing on its impact on teaching, learning, and student success. It delves into the evolution of AI, market trends, challenges, and Hawkes Learning's deliberate approach to AI implementation. The discussion also highlights the importance of deliberate building and integration of AI, as well as the future of higher education.

Takeaways

  • AI in higher education is about elevating educators and students
  • AI implementation requires deliberate building and integration