Pondering Thoughts Podcast

Critical Minds in Critical Times: Teaching Higher Ed in Today's Political Climate with Dr. Kris Marsh

K. Wilkes Season 5 Episode 5

 In this lively conversation, host K. Wilkes speaks with Dr. Kris Marsh as she dives into the challenges and rewards of teaching in today’s politically charged higher education landscape. She reflects on the importance of critical thinking and authentic student engagement, drawing from her popular Boondocks class and highlighting the power of contemporary culture—like Kendrick Lamar’s music—to connect with students. Dr. Marsh also explores Black joy as a revolutionary act, shares her strategies for self-care, and discusses the evolving nature of teaching, encouraging educators to adapt their methods to truly meet students where they are. By the end, listeners will see that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge—it’s about shaping minds and nurturing resilience in every classroom. 

Chapters

02:00
Introduction and Welcome Back

04:29
Teaching in a Changing Political Climate

05:34
Adapting Teaching Methods for Critical Thinking

11:53
The Boondocks Class: Engaging Students Through Media

17:00
Disrupting Myths: Conversations on Race and Fatherhood

22:05
Student Demographics and Class Dynamics

25:18
Navigating Censorship in Education

28:12
The Future of the Boondocks Class

29:40
Exploring Sociology Through Pop Culture

34:19
The Evolution of Teaching Methods

40:17
Ethnography and the Kendrick Lamar Experience

48:22
Reflections on Race and Music

50:17
Exploring Black Joy

52:50
The Intersection of Black Joy and Research

55:54
Rest as Resistance

57:23
Self-Care and Joy in Academia

01:06
Reflections on Teaching in Today's Climate

Guest Info

https://drkrismarsh.com/

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