PrairieLearn, Group Work, and the Future of Teaching: A Conversation with Dr. Silva

In this episode of SIIP and Share, host Dr. Ashleigh Wright talks with Dr. Mariana Silva, Teaching Associate Professor and Education Innovation Fellow in the Siebel School of Computing and Data Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Dr. Silva shares how her early work in mechanical engineering evolved into large-scale innovations in computer-based learning, group collaboration, and flexible assessment. From transforming linear algebra courses with real-world computational tools to helping develop and scale PrairieLearn, Dr. Silva’s passion for accessible, engaging education shines through. She also discusses her vision for the future of learning—where flexibility, collaboration, and student autonomy take center stage.

Learn more about Prof. Silva here.