Spring 2026 | Beyond Surface Level: Understanding Depth of Learning Through Heat Maps

About this episode

This episode explores how heat maps can reveal patterns in student learning that traditional reports often overlook.

What does it truly mean for students to learn deeply, and how can institutions tell the difference between surface recall and lasting, transferable mastery? In this episode, we examine how data visualization tools, particularly heat maps, help academic leaders and assessment professionals uncover patterns in student learning that traditional reports often miss. We're joined by Drs Bobbijo Pinnelli, Amy Hillbelink, and Jay Kahl, the Department of Program Assessment (DPA) team at Walden University, for a conversation exploring how depth of learning shows up across curricula, where it commonly breaks down, and what institutions can do to strengthen learning progression. Learn more about the Faculty Leading the Change Series, powered by the Office of Teaching, Learning, and Mentoring Excellence → tinyurl.com/flc-series

People in this episode

Guests: Dr. Bobbijo Pinnelli, Dr. Amy Hillbelink, Dr. Jay Kahl

Topics covered

• depth of learning
• data visualization
• heat maps
• student learning
• curriculum assessment

Keywords

• deep learning
• surface recall
• transferable mastery
• academic leaders
• assessment professionals

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Walden University, Office of Teaching, Learning, and Mentoring Excellence

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