Alexis Guethler Publishes Book Chapters on Case-Based Learning and AI in Instructional Design.
School of Social Work instructional designer Alexis Guethler, Ph.D., CPACC ,published two book chapters this semester that advance scholarship and applied best practices for supporting adult learners in higher education and workforce contexts.
In "Empowering Adult Learners Through Case-Based Instruction: A New Approach to Employability Skills", co-authored with Sharon Ultsch, Guethler examines the use of case-based instruction in adult education and workforce development contexts. The chapter situates case-based teaching within adult learning theory and critical pedagogy, offering design strategies that support reflective learning, skill development, and alignment with social work values.
Guethler also authored "Making Pedagogical Intent Visible: AI-Supported Contextualization in Higher Education Course Design," an open-access chapter that explores the use of generative AI to support instructional design decision-making. The chapter presents a structured approach to using AI to help faculty articulate the purpose and relevance of course materials for adult learners, particularly in online and asynchronous learning environments. The work utilizes the iCRAFT prompting model developed by IDEAteam technologist Rodney Urand and is grounded in evidence-based teaching and instructional design principles, emphasizing the transparent and ethical use of AI as a pedagogical support tool.
Together, these publications reflect ongoing scholarship focused on adult learners, instructional transparency, and the thoughtful integration of technology to support learning and teaching practices across higher education.