Conversations with Colleagues (November 2026)

Topic: Making Learning Memorable: Building High-Impact Practices

Some learning experiences stay with students long after a course ends, while others are quickly forgotten. What makes the difference? Join colleagues for a conversation about the learning experiences that have had a lasting impact on students and on our own educational journeys. Together, we’ll explore the characteristics of high-impact practices such as community-engaged learning, undergraduate research, collaborative projects, internships, reflection, and authentic assessment. Participants will share ideas, challenges, and examples from their own teaching and learning contexts as we consider how to design experiences that promote engagement, meaning-making, and the transfer of learning beyond the classroom. Whether you are new to high-impact practices or looking to refresh existing approaches, this conversation will provide an opportunity to exchange strategies and leave with new ideas for creating memorable learning experiences.

Conversations with Colleagues is a welcoming, virtual gathering space designed to connect faculty and staff across Minnesota State. Whether you’re joining from your office, your kitchen table, or between classes, bring your lunch and your curiosity as we come together to share ideas, ask questions, and learn from one another.

Note: To prioritize real-time sharing and connection, these sessions will NOT be recorded.

Each session begins with a brief 5–10 minute presentation that introduces a timely or thought-provoking topic. From there, we move into dynamic, facilitated discussions, both in small breakout groups and larger conversations, where participants can explore the topic more deeply, exchange perspectives, and discover new approaches to teaching, learning, and working in higher education. 

This year, our topics are guided by the Minnesota State Network for Educational Development theme – Designing and Promoting Deep Learning Experiences in Changing Times. This focus invites us to reflect on inclusive practices, accessible learning environments, and strategies that ensure all students can thrive. 

This is more than just a meeting—it’s a chance to: 

• Learn something new or see a familiar topic in a fresh light 

• Share your own experiences and insights 

• Ask questions and hear how others are navigating similar challenges 

• Build relationships and expand your professional network across the system 

We believe that the best ideas often emerge through conversation. Conversations with Colleagues is hosted by faculty and staff from the Minnesota State Educational Development Committee and is open to all who are interested in fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and mutual support. 

Join us—and be part of the conversation. 

Accommodations

The NED is committed to providing universal access to all of our events, we’d like to discover how we can make the event more inclusive so you can fully participate!

Machine generated captions are available in real-time for all Zoom events, however human generated CART (live caption) service and ASL interpretation can be requested with advanced notice (2 weeks) to make the event more accessible.

Please, let us know of any disability-related accommodations that will facilitate your full participation.

Registration Required

Use the RSVP tool below to register. After registering, a calendar invite will be sent to you as a reminder of the event start date.