As an advocate for quality online education, I have found
so much joy in collaborating with faculty to develop courses that meet academic standards and engage and empower students. Every step of the
process, from the initial brainstorming sessions to celebrating the completion
of a course, fills me with enthusiasm and purpose.
My job is more than just a job; it is a deeply fulfilling
calling. Working with faculty to create high-quality online courses extends
beyond fulfilling professional obligations; it involves building meaningful
connections, fostering collaboration, and positively impacting students' learning journey. It is a passion that fuels my every effort, bringing joy,
satisfaction, and a profound sense of purpose to my work.
Getting to Know Faculty
Building relationships with faculty members is one of the
most crucial aspects of my job. Understanding their teaching styles, passions,
and concerns fosters empathy and leads to more effective
collaboration. By nurturing open communication and trust, we can work together
to design courses that resonate with the faculty's vision and the
student's needs. I find joy in taking the time to truly get to know them on a
personal level, beyond their academic expertise. This understanding of their
interests, passions, and what makes them unique adds a layer of depth to our
partnership.
I have had the pleasure of learning about
faculty members' families, hobbies, and even their favorite treats. From
faculty with grandchildren living across the country that they dearly miss to those with a soft spot for fostering animals in need, or even taking joy in sharing stories about their beloved pets. These personal insights allow us to connect on a deeper level and foster a sense of mutual support. In my
experience, discovering shared interests, such as a love for Reese's peanut butter
cups or a great appreciation for the taste of the Zeros: Coke Zero and Dr. Pepper Zero, can spark lively
conversations and further strengthen our bond. By acknowledging these personal
preferences and incorporating them into our interactions, we demonstrate a
genuine interest in the faculty members as individuals, not just as colleagues.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of dedicating time
to understanding faculty members and their lives outside academia. This
practice fosters a supportive and empathetic environment that promotes
collaborative success. These personal connections are what make our work not
only fulfilling but also deeply rewarding on a human level.
Empathy in Design
Empathy is at the heart of effective course design.
Recognizing faculty and students' challenges in the online learning environment enables us to create solutions to promote success. Whether providing additional resources, adjusting timelines, or
offering support, empathy ensures that everyone involved feels valued and
supported throughout the process.
Patience and Problem-Solving
In the world of education, delays and setbacks are sometimes
unavoidable. Faculty members wear many hats and work hard to balance their
various responsibilities. Patience and resilience are key qualities when
navigating these challenges. We can maintain positive relationships with faculty while working together to overcome obstacles by remaining patient and understanding. Taking a proactive approach to problem-solving ensures that courses
stay on track or can get back on track, and deadlines are met without
compromising quality.
Building Engaging Content
Collaborating with faculty to incorporate interactive
elements, multimedia resources, and experiential learning activities adds depth and richness to the
online learning experience. While seeing students actively engage with the
material and flourish in their learning it's not solely about academic concepts.
It's also about ensuring that students not only grasp academic concepts but
also develop the essential career readiness skills they need to succeed in the
workforce. By designing courses that integrate real-world scenarios,
problem-solving exercises, and industry-relevant projects, we aim to equip
students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary for success in their
future careers. Whether it's fostering teamwork and communication through group
projects or cultivating critical thinking and adaptability through hands-on
simulations, our goal is to empower students to excel in the workplace and make
meaningful contributions to their fields.
Embracing Creativity and Innovation
The journey of creating online courses is a
creative endeavor. It involves thinking outside the box, experimenting with new
ideas, and pushing the boundaries of traditional education. By embracing
creativity and innovation, we can design courses that not only inspire
curiosity but also foster critical thinking, ultimately transforming the
learning experience for students.
I have had the pleasure of collaborating with many faculty
members who are eager to innovate and explore new approaches to ensure they
provide a high-quality learning experience for students. Whether through
scenarios, simulations, virtual reality, 3D modeling, virtual labs, or
interactive elements, they are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of online
education and engaging students in dynamic ways.
Celebrating Milestones
Every milestone, big or small, deserves to be celebrated.
Whether it's completing a module, receiving positive feedback from students, or
launching a course successfully, each achievement represents the collective
effort and dedication of everyone involved. Taking the time to acknowledge
these milestones boosts morale and reinforces the importance of
the work being done.
Pride in Completion
As a course reaches its completion, there is a sense of pride
and accomplishment that fills the air. Faculty members pour their hearts and
souls into designing courses that reflect their expertise and passion for
teaching. Recognizing and celebrating their hard work and dedication is essential, ensuring that they feel appreciated and valued for their
contributions.
Concluding Thoughts
I am blessed that my life journey has taken me on a road that brings me happiness each day, and I am thankful for every person I have worked with since the first day I decided to go into education. Working with faculty to create online courses is more than just a job—a passion and a calling. From the initial consultation to the final launch, every step of the process is infused with dedication, empathy, and creativity. By celebrating both the journey and the destination, we can continue to elevate the standards of online education and empower students to succeed in their academic pursuits.
As I wrap up my post, I want to acknowledge the faculty members who have gone on the design and development journey and have successfully reached the finish line. Whether I have had the pleasure of working with you in the past or will collaborate with you in the future, please know that I will always be your greatest supporter and cheerleader.
