The Plant

Teaching, Writing, & Research in Times of GenAI
2024-10-29 11:00 - 13:00 (Europe/Amsterdam)
Coordinated by Flora Lysen and Charles van Leeuwen

Tuesday 29 October / 11.00 – 13.00 / The Plant

Generative AI writing tools have sparked significant controversy, particularly among academic writing instructors. Some writing educators view language models like ChatGPT as a valuable “opportunity to re-examine our practices and ensure that how and what we teach aligns with our pedagogical values” (Warner 2022). Others see it as a threat to the art of thinking through writing: “using ChatGPT to complete assignments is like bringing a forklift into the weight room; you will never improve your cognitive fitness that way” (Chiang 2024). Regardless of differing opinions, FASoS writing instructors will need to adapt the content of their courses. The question is not if we have to address AI tools in writing courses, but how we can best do it. Many staff will realise their lack of experience and expertise in this domain.

This workshop is dedicated to co-creating assignments that teach students (and staff) how to use generative AI as an aid in the research and writing process, rather than as a replacement for their own work. Participating instructors will explore some best practices for integrating AI into writing education. In the coming months, additional workshop sessions will follow, focusing on related GenAI topics.

Registration for this event is capped at 16 participants. In case of oversubscription, priority will be given to colleagues coordinating/tutoring actively in skills courses. Participants can register 2 hours of “continuous professional development” (CPD) for this event.

To register, please use this link: https://maastrichtuniversity.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Q6ozBbQlIEO0rYAdditional questions, please email: f.lysen@maastrichtuniversity.nlChiang, T. (2024, August 31). Why A.I. Isn’t Going to Make Art. The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/culture/the-weekend-essay/why-ai-isnt-going-to-make-artWarner, J. (2022, December 5). Freaking Out About ChatGPT. Artificial intelligence can crank out passable student essays in seconds. What are we going to do? Inside Higher Ed. https://www.insidehighered.com/blogs/just-visiting/freaking-out-about-chatgpt%E2%80%94part-i

Learn the Basics of Video Editing!
2024-11-26 11:00 - 13:00
Learn how to bring your videos to life with our “Video Editing Basics” workshop! In this beginner-friendly session, you’ll explore essential editing techniques like cutting, transitions, audio syncing, and adding effects to create smooth, professional-looking videos. Whether you’re working on vlogs, academic content, or personal projects, this workshop will equip you with the skills to enhance your storytelling and refine your visual message. Perfect for those new to editing, you’ll leave with the confidence to take your video content to the next level!

This workshop is held at Tapijn lecture hall F0.014, 11am-1pm, and is shared with the MA in Digital Cultures and the BA in Global Studies.

Making, Mending, & Repair Café
2024-11-28 14:00 - 16:00 | The Plant, 90-92 Grote Gracht, Maastricht, 6112 SZ
Drop into The Plant with your lightly broken ceramics, clothing, technology, or bicycles!

Don’t throw it out! Bring your broken things here. At the café will be tools & expertise related to: BIKES – fixing punctures, changing tires; CLOTHES – visible mending, darning, patches; CERAMICS – Kintsugi (gold) glue repairs; IT – repair assessments, simple hardware fixing, incl. possibilities for 3D printing, soldering, and more…

Organized by Anna Harris, Jeroen Bouwer, Sven Assink, Paul Guerts, & Jay Simons

Bachelors Open Day!
2025-01-28 08:00 - 17:00
Come and explore the BA Digital Society with us at The Plant. Talk with staff, see past projects, and try things for yourself!
