CSBS AI and VXR Initiatives in Higher Education

Stefanie Drew, Department of Psychology, CSUN

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Topic:

Reality Reimagined: Frontiers in Research and Education through Extended Reality (XR)

Abstract:

Extended Reality (XR) systems, encompassing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), have experienced a surge in adoption across diverse disciplines in recent years. This presentation will offer a concise overview of XR technologies and their wide-ranging applications. We will then introduce several research trajectories pursued by our lab, highlighting both completed and ongoing projects that harness the power of XR systems. We will share insights drawn from these studies, focusing on the ocular, behavioral, and cognitive implications of XR usage.

Bio:

Dr. Drew earned her PhD in Psychology from UC Irvine in 2009, studying visual perception in the Human Information Processing Lab. She completed two post-doctoral positions: one at UCI's mindSPACE Laboratory, studying retinotopic mapping in the occipital cortex, and another at Western University of Health Sciences' College of Optometry, focusing on oculomotor dysfunction. Dr. Drew is currently a Professor in CSUN’s psychology department and the Principal Investigator of the Visual Information Processing and Neuroscience (VISN) Lab. Her interdisciplinary research approach combines neuroscience, psychophysics, psychometrics, and optometric methodologies to comprehensively examine the visual system and its interaction with emerging technologies.

Kathleen Oulette, Director, VictoryVR

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Topic:

Virtual Reality and AI: Practical Applications for Higher Education

Abstract:

Curious about how you can implement virtual reality and incorporate AI in your classroom to increase engagement, grades and overall retention? We can show you how! We have the research to prove it! Whether creating virtual connections, exploring mixed reality, developing worlds to learn in and from, conducting experiments that replicate real-life or traveling the world with 360 degree videos, we can help you take your students on an immersive journey. From using AI to provide a tutor of your lessons to allowing students to use AI for group or personal presentations (accessed from anywhere at anytime), we can help you see all the possibilities. Join us for this immersive demonstration of the hows and whys behind VR.

Bio(s):

Kathleen Ouellette, is Director of Customer Success and Homeschooling at VictoryXR. Kathleen primarily works with educators and students across all levels to support implementation of immersive experiential learning opportunities. A 30+ year experienced educator, certified birth through Adult , Kathleen has taught ALL age levels at the state, public, private, and charter arenas, and homeschooled her 6 children for 14 years. She holds a Bachelor's in Deaf Education from Texas Womans University, an MEd from Regent University in Curriculum and Leadership and has extensive post graduate hours in Special Education, Reading and Early Childhood. A US Navy Veteran spouse, Kathleen and her husband now call St Louis home.

Chris McLean is the Manager of Customer Success at VictoryXR. In his role, Chris works with colleges and universities to implement virtual reality learning programs. Prior to working at VictoryXR, Chris was an Infantry Officer in the US Army and holds an MBA from Purdue University Global.

Deone Zell, Department of Business Management

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Topic:

Enhancing Teaching and Research Through Generative AI

Abstract:

At this event, we will explore the transformative potential of generative AI in both teaching and research. Discover how AI can engage students, boost participation, and create personalized learning experiences through tools like chatbots and AI-enhanced assignments. You will also learn how to use AI to create multimedia content, transforming lectures into podcasts and other engaging formats. For researchers, AI offers the ability to accelerate tasks such as problem identification, literature reviews, research design, data analysis, and report drafting. By incorporating AI into our workflows, we can enhance efficiency, foster deeper engagement with material, and unlock new opportunities for innovation in both the classroom and research environment.

Bio:

Deone Zell, Ph.D., is a professor at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where she teaches classes in management, organizational behavior, technology and innovation at the Nazarian College of Business and Economics. She has worked at CSUN for more than 25 years and has held a variety of administrative and academic roles such as Associate Vice President for Academic Technology, and Chair of the Management Department. Her research focuses on organizational change and innovation, and she has published numerous books and articles on these topics. She is the recipient of multiple awards, including recognition as an Apple Distinguished Edicator and the recipient of the CSUN Staff Team Award for leadership in various emerging technology initiatives. Currently she serves as a CSUN AI Faculty Fellow where she helps faculty integrate AI tools into their teaching and research.

Linda Bowen, Department of Journalism

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Topic:

AI and Beyond: Future Journalism and Public Relations Careers – A Case Study

Abstract:

How has automated news production or generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in public relations significantly altered the job market – just as our graduates are entering the field? To find out, seniors in their final capstone course explore the concrete and existential in managing radical change in news and allied media professions. Their work – to outline, report and generally illuminate this disruptive but constantly evolving innovative landscape – underscores and fuels the design and organization of an end-of-semester Roundtable / Collaborative Conversation with first-year Journalism majors.

Bio:

Linda Bowen co-created the Journalism Education Collaborative project in partnership with the California Press Foundation-funded “State of Journalism Education” – a first of its kind census of the state’s journalism educators. JOUR•Ed’s network connects students, educators and professional media makers with resources and support.

Longtime chair (2012-2022) in CSUN’s Journalism Department, Prof. Bowen is a former newspaper journalist. Her academic career has focused on teaching newswriting/reporting and editing skills, integrating media literacy concepts and fostering civic engagement through award-winning community and K-12 teaching projects.

Topic:

AI Dialogues: Voices from Both Sides of the Classroom

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Abstract:

In this webinar, Megan will present preliminary research and analysis from surveys conducted throughout the CSU community. Data was sourced from multiple campuses, including CSUN, and surveys of faculty, staff, and students. Together, we will compare the findings and propose ideal solutions for integrating the technological advancements of Artificial Intelligence within your classrooms. Attendees will learn about the perspectives and usage of AI tools and receive resources to further their knowledge of this new age of AI-competent classrooms. By understanding the overall CSU ecosystem and focusing on CSUN, participants will gain a comprehensive picture of AI adoption and be better equipped for the next semester.

Bio:

Megan Duncan received her bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University (WWU) in Bellingham, WA. She joined the CSUN Academic Technology team in 2021, leading dozens of workshops for faculty on topics such as video editing, Zoom and Panopto, digital design, and most recently, Artificial Intelligence. Megan serves on the CSUN Library’s AI Working Group, is an Adobe Creative Educator, and a thought leader of the CSUN LIFT-AI Virtual community. Additionally, she is expected to graduate from CSUN in Spring 2025 with her master’s in educational technology, researching Artificial Intelligence within Higher Education.

Helen Heinrich, CSUN Associate Vice President for Academic Technology and Mathew Williams, CSUN Director of Instructional Technology

Topic:

Leveraging AI at CSUN: Tools, Support, and Best Practices for Faculty

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Abstract:

This webinar explores California State University, Northridge’s AI resources for academic and research use. Participants will learn about CSUN’s AI tools, support services, and best practices for responsible AI adoption. The session covers strategies for incorporating AI into course design, research applications, and ethical considerations, with insights from CSUN faculty success stories. Designed for CSUN faculty, researchers, and staff, this 60-minute session provides practical knowledge and steps for integrating AI tools into teaching and research while maintaining academic integrity.

Bios:

Dr. Helen Heinrich serves as the Associate Vice President for Academic Technology at CSUN, focusing on educational technology innovation, accessibility and digital equity initiatives. During her 19-year tenure at CSUN, she previously served as Director of Data and Analytics in Information Technology, developing intervention tools and academic success programs. Her CSUN journey began as a faculty member and Department Chair in the University Library. Dr. Heinrich holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from CSUN and a Master of Library and Information Science from UCLA.

Dr. Mathew Williams serves as the Director of Instructional Technology at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), overseeing the university's instructional technology ecosystem supporting online, hybrid, and in-person education. He manages key platforms including Canvas, Panopto, and Poll Everywhere, while leading comprehensive support, training, and consultation services. With over 18 years in higher education, Dr. Williams has led major technology migrations and faculty development initiatives. He holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from USC and an M.S. in Instructional Design and Technology from CSU Fullerton.