Anitha Saravanan is an Assistant Professor in the School of Nursing in the College of Health and Human Sciences. Dr. Saravanan taught an honors seminar in the spring 2026 semester titled, “Social Media and Artificial Intelligence: A Promise or Peril to Our Future Health”
- Why were you attracted to offering an honors seminar?
I was drawn to offering an Honors seminar because it provides a unique space to explore complex and emerging topics, like social media and AI in health, in a more interactive, discussion-driven format. Honors students bring curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to engage deeply with challenging ideas. This creates an ideal environment to examine not only the opportunities but also the ethical, societal, and health implications of rapidly evolving technologies. It allows me to move beyond traditional teaching and co-create a learning experience where students critically reflect, question assumptions, and connect ideas across disciplines.
2. How do you teach your subject or specialty to an interdisciplinary group of Honors students?
Teaching an interdisciplinary group requires intentional design. I focus on making content accessible while also creating opportunities for students to bring in perspectives from their own fields, whether that’s engineering, health sciences, business, or the humanities. I use real-world examples, case studies, and current events related to social media and AI in health to ground discussions. Students are encouraged to analyze problems through multiple lenses, collaborate across disciplines, and learn from each other. This not only deepens understanding but also mirrors the kind of interdisciplinary thinking required to address real-world health challenges.
3. What are some of your tricks of the trade to engage students in the course materials?
I emphasize active and applied learning. This includes small-group discussions, and scenario-based activities where students respond to real-world challenges, such as misinformation on social media or ethical dilemmas in AI-driven health tools. I also integrate reflective exercises that allow students to connect course content to their personal and professional interests. Creating a psychologically safe and inclusive environment is key; when students feel comfortable sharing ideas, they engage more deeply. Additionally, incorporating emerging tools like AI not just as content but as a learning partner has been especially effective in sustaining engagement.
4. What’s the best thing about teaching Honors students?
The best part of teaching Honors students is their intellectual curiosity and willingness to go beyond surface-level learning. They ask thoughtful questions, challenge ideas, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Their motivation pushes me to continuously evolve my teaching and bring in innovative approaches. It is especially rewarding to see students make connections across disciplines and develop a more nuanced understanding of how technology, health, and society intersect. The classroom becomes a collaborative learning space where both students and instructor grow together.
