Episode 20 - Vince Andrisani: The Power of Listening – Rethinking How We Learn and Teach
Episode:
20
guest episode
February 13, 2025
Vince Andrisani: The Power of Listening – Rethinking How We Learn and Teach
Educational Innovation
Media Ecology & Education
Sound Studies
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Vincent Andrisani, a faculty member at Carleton University, shares his background in sound studies and how it has shaped his teaching. He explores the importance of thinking with our ears—examining sound, listening, and sound cultures as essential tools for understanding the world. Vincent breaks down three assignments he gives his students—an audio portrait, a soundscape composition, and a documentary on a specific place or monument—each designed to foster critical thinking, curiosity, and deeper engagement with their surroundings.
In this conversation, we discuss the role of educators in setting meaningful parameters for exploration and why classrooms should be spaces of attentiveness, respect, and dedication to learning. Vincent reflects on the most inspiring moments in his teaching—when students open up to new possibilities—and emphasizes that asking questions is at the heart of learning. Looking ahead, he argues that shaping the future of education depends on understanding the past and making more informed decisions moving forward.
About The Guest
Vincent Andrisani
Vincent Andrisani is an Associate Professor, teaching stream, in the Communication and Media Studies program at Carleton University. He specializes in the area of sound studies, intersecting the fields of soundscape studies, oral history, and popular music studies. Media production is an important dimension of Vincent’s research and teaching, and he presently produces (and hosts) a radio show called “The Place of Sound” (www.theplaceofsound.ca), showcasing audio media produced in his classrooms.
Demonstrating Curiosity as a Skill
Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
Purpose of the Conversation with Vincent Andrisani
Vincent’s Background in Communication and Media Studies
Growing Up in Toronto and Academic Journey
The Influence of Family and Upbringing on Teaching
Early Learning Interests and Curiosity
The Impact of Studying Music on Thinking and Research
Learning to Play Drums and Its Lasting Influence
The Emergence of Sound Studies
Research in Cuba and Sound as a Reflection of Politics
The Role of Listening in Research and Teaching
Encouraging Students to Think Through Sound
Examples of Assignments Using Sound in Education
Exploring Place and Space Through Sound in Student Projects
The Importance of Encouraging Student Curiosity
What Great Classrooms Look, Sound, and Feel Like
Most Inspiring Moments as an Educator
Advice for Students: The Importance of Asking Questions
Education and the Future: Looking Back to Move Forward
The Shift Away from Testing and Back Again with AI
The Divide Between Theory and Practice in Communication Studies
Institutional Challenges in Higher Education
Hope for the Future: Engaged and Curious Students
Recommended Podcasts and Books on Sound Studies
Podcast Closing and Acknowledgements
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