DeBrief: Chatbot vs Agent

This week we’re pleased to speak with Dr. Cristi Ford, Chief Learning Officer at D2L, about the evolving role of learning management systems in an AI-driven world. They explore how the LMS has grown from a simple repository for content into a broader learning ecosystem, and why institutions must rethink not just the technology they use, but how learning is designed, assessed, and supported.

JC examines whether "AI slop" stems from the technology itself or from users cutting corners, exploring how AI is reshaping standards of effort, judgment, and quality in academic and professional work.

Tursio's 100th episode argues that enrollment marketing should prioritize experience, authentic voices, accessibility, and clarity over communication, institutional messaging, jargon, and information overload.

Why do enrollment challenges often appear too late? Mehgan Cabrera shares how institutions can spot early warning signs, break down silos, and build stronger student journeys with smarter data, relationships, and AI.

Rishab Malhotra and author Anna Esaki-Smith discuss how higher ed's self-inflicted cost and pricing problems, combined with a global demographic decline and shifting views on the value of a college brand versus skills, are driving consolidation and forcing institutions to adapt—though she remains optimistic about the traditional college experience's enduring value.