This presentation explores how higher education can transform students into active scholars and engaged citizens through intentional teaching practices. Drawing on research and experience, we highlight the power of metacognition—students’ ability to think about their own thinking—as a catalyst for deep learning and personal growth. The discussion will also examine civic education as a vital component of preparing students to contribute meaningfully to democratic society. By integrating (1) the purpose and goals of metacognitive development, (2) the development of students into scholars and effective professionals, and (3) civic responsibility, we offer practical strategies for educators and students seeking to foster intellectual curiosity, critical reflection, and social responsibility in today’s learners. This session invites participants to reimagine the classroom as a space where knowledge, self-awareness, and civic purpose intersect.
More about the Presenter
Dr. Benjamin Johnson is an associate professor in the Department of Student Leadership and Success Studies at Utah Valley University. He received a Ph.D. in Educational Philosophy and Psychology from The Ohio State University. He regularly trains adjunct faculty and has successfully mentored students on independent research projects and cofounded (with students) The Journal of Student Leadership, a double-blind peer-reviewed journal that addresses issues relevant to leadership. His service learning and community engagements have focused on helping students from underrepresented communities excel during their first year of college.
Dr. Anton Tolman is an emeritus professor in the Department of Psychology and Counseling at Utah Valley University. He received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oregon and worked in clinical and forensic practice for nearly a decade before joining the academy. Dr. Tolman is a past director of the Faculty Center for Teaching Excellence at UVU. In 2017, he and colleagues published Why Students Resist Learning: A Practical Model for Understanding and Helping Students. His research has focused on enhancing student metacognition, understanding and working with student resistance to active pedagogies, and power dynamics and power sharing in the classroom.
All are invited to attend this free themed tour of Roots of Knowledge. Faculty, students, and staff from across campus have prepared to present on topics they are experts in or have done recent research about. This month’s theme explores Environmental History. Free popcorn for all and prizes for those who visit at least four stops along the tour. If you are interested in presenting at one of the stops in a themed tour please reach out.
All are invited to attend this free themed tour of Roots of Knowledge. Faculty, students, and staff from across campus have prepared to present on topics they are experts in or have done recent research about. This month’s theme explores Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage. Free popcorn for all and prizes for those who visit at least four stops along the tour. If you are interested in presenting at one of the stops in a themed tour please reach out.
