What is the best part about teaching in this graduate program?
I get the chance to work with cohorts of learners from a wide range of disciplines seeking to gain knowledge, skills, and competencies in the field of Instructional Design and Technology. As a result, I provide an enriching and transformative learning experience.
What is the one thing you hope students take away from your course(s)?
Application! While there is a focus on theoretical knowledge, each course emphasizes the practical application of theory. This allows our graduates to meaningfully impact and transform their professional environments.
What are the real-world applications of the work you do at the University?
As a professor, I design my courses to emphasize real-world applications and problem-based projects. I also support extracurricular initiatives by contributing my instructional design expertise to enhance the university learning environment.
What kinds of coursework and capstone projects should students expect?
Students address real-world challenges within their professional practice by solving authentic instructional and learning problems. For example, one instructional design student is developing a training workshop to support community members who face limited access to library resources during the winter months.
What advice would you give to a student who wants to be successful?
Take risks! Address problems and issues out of your comfort zone. This is where you increase your capacity and leverage your marketability.
What is the focus of your scholarly pursuits?
My scholarly pursuits focus on technology integration and the development of educational communities to enhance student learning experiences, promote sustainable practices, and improve performance outcomes.
What is the most interesting thing, to you, about the research area you’re pursuing?
Experiement and think outside the box. The field continues to evolve to address learning, training, and performance across diverse contexts. In many instances, there is no single approach that fits all learners, making it essential to employ varied instructional methods.