In the Season 1 wrap-up, Megan welcomes Dr. Allison Oliver, assistant professor of special education at Austin Peay State University. Drawing on her 17 years in public education, Dr. Oliver explores two transformative topics: ethical AI implementation and the future of special education.

Discover how Dr. Oliver views AI as both a powerful teaching tool and a potential challenge, advocating for its use as a "thought partner" rather than a replacement for authentic learning. Learn about her new AI workshop for undergraduates that models responsible usage while promoting deeper thinking.

The conversation shifts to Tennessee's critical special education teacher shortage, with Dr. Oliver — whose research focuses on educational equity and teacher development — passionately describing special educators as "super teachers" who close opportunity gaps. She outlines essential strategies for districts and teacher preparation programs, including APSU's revamped approaches, to better support and retain these vital educators.

Dr. Oliver also shares how her commitment to serving marginalized populations through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. aligns with her educational mission.

⁠APSU Eriksson College of Education⁠

More about Dr. Allison Oliver

Explore APSU’s Undergraduate Special Education Degree Options

Explore APSU’s Graduate Special Education Degree Options

Association of Teacher Educators Teacher Educator Standards, (3rd Edition)

Call for Proposals: Rural Education Conference

Find Upcoming Events on Govs Connect

Dr. Zack Barnes Quoted in Newsweek

APSU GOVing Tuesday

Meagan Potts, community engagement coordinator for the Office of Community Engagement and Sustainability at Austin Peay State University, joins Megan on this month’s episode. Meagan brings a unique blend of student support and gaming culture to her role in Student Affairs.

She oversees critical initiatives, such as Alternative Break Trips and the Engage Living-Learning Community, where she strives to treat college students as young adults navigating some of life's most significant transitions. She earned a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Instructional Technology from the Eriksson College of Education, which equipped her with practical tools and strategies she uses in her day-to-day work.

As advisor for the Govs Gaming student organization, Meagan bridges her professional and personal worlds. She shares more about the growth of esports at APSU, including a recent tournament victory against Middle Tennessee State University.

Dive Deeper:

⁠APSU Eriksson College of Education⁠

Office of Community Engagement and Sustainability

Master of Arts in Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Instructional Technology

⁠Govs Gaming Student Organization⁠

Austin Peay marks esports debut with tiebreaker win over MTSU

Call for Proposals: Rural Education Conference

APSU Full Spectrum Learning

Advocates for Autism Student Organization

Generative AI Use Among Saudi and Korean Language Learners in Higher Education: Examination Through a Modified TAM Framework

Students’ perceptions of generative AI in EFL writing: Strategies, self-efficacy, satisfaction, and behavioural intention

On this episode, Megan chats with Dr. Jena Collins, a new Full Spectrum Learning staff member and August 2025 doctoral graduate of the Eriksson College of Education at Austin Peay State University. Dr. Collins discusses her experience in special education and role in supporting neurodivergent students at Austin Peay, the rich opportunities for research and mentoring available through the doctoral program, and suggestions for inclusive and accessible field trip options.

Dive Deeper:

⁠APSU Eriksson College of Education⁠

Dr. Zack Barnes Quoted in HuffPost

Join us for our Homecoming Brunch

Meet Dr. Jena Collins

APSU Full Spectrum Learning

APSU Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Program

Plan Your Field Trip to Leadville, Colorado