Centering the Human Experience in Academic Settings

Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Session Description:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping teaching, learning, and assessment in higher education. While AI offers new opportunities for innovation and efficiency, it is also introducing complex challenges related to student well-being, accessibility, academic integrity, and meaningful human connections. Grounded in universal design, trauma-informed practices, and student-centered approaches, this session emphasizes actionable strategies that center on empathy, maintain professional boundaries, and foster inclusive pedagogy in our technology-rich learning environments.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Recognize the diverse and intersecting needs of the student experience

  • Reflect on and evaluate best practices in teaching, program design, and student support

  • Identify strategies to create healthy boundaries and foster safer, more supportive learning spaces

  • Apply trauma-informed and inclusive approaches when responding to student challenges, including appropriate referral pathways and campus resources

Session Structure:

Dialogue discussion

Presenter:

Jennifer O'Brien, Learning Strategist, AccessAbility Services

Melissa Strachan (she/her), Associate Director, Counselling Services, Campus Wellness

Rebecca MacAlpine (she/her), Educational Technologies Supervisor, Integrated Teaching Support Unit

Amanda Cook (she/her), Director, Sexual Violence Prevention and Response

Katie Damphouse (she/her), Manager Academic Accommodations, AccessAbility Services