September 26, 2025
Dr. Michael Rodriguez Named Top 3 Finalist for Teaching Innovation at Marketing Management Association Conference
Dr. Michael Rodriguez, Assistant Professor of Marketing at East Carolina University, was recognized as a Top 3 Finalist for the Teaching Innovation Award at the prestigious Marketing Management Association (MMA) Fall Educators’ Conference, held in Las Vegas, Nevada. This annual competition celebrates outstanding innovation in marketing education, spotlighting faculty who are reshaping the future of the field.
Dr. Rodriguez presented his groundbreaking work, “Reimagining Course Content With AI: Using Notebook LM for AI-Generated Podcast Lectures.” His presentation showcased how AI can transform course delivery by generating podcast-based lectures that enhance learning engagement and accessibility.
The research highlighted significant findings: students voluntarily engaged with the AI-generated podcasts at a rate two to four times higher than traditional slides. Furthermore, students who listened to the podcasts most frequently achieved the highest course scores, while those who consumed the content the least earned the lowest scores. This demonstrated a direct connection between innovative content delivery and measurable student success.
“This recognition underscores the power of AI in reshaping the student learning experience,” said Dr. Rodriguez. “By meeting students where they are, we can create more engaging, accessible, and effective learning environments.”
The MMA has a long-standing tradition of honoring educational excellence. Originating as the marketing division of the Midwest Business Administration Association (MBAA) in 1964, MMA has grown into a leading national and international academic association. With a mission to advance marketing education and scholarship, MMA publishes the Marketing Management Journal and the Journal for Advancement in Marketing Education while hosting biannual conferences for academics and practitioners alike.
Dr. Rodriguez’s recognition as a finalist reflects his ongoing commitment to innovation, teaching excellence, and the integration of emerging technologies into marketing education.