Fierce Education’s purpose is “Rethinking Higher Education Pedagogy in a Blended Learning World” and technology is at its center. We are highlighting “Fierce Ed Technologists” who have responded to the new blended learning world by:
- Improving the use of technology
- Providing additional technologies to staff
- Optimizing integration of technology
- Providing staff the support required for proper deployment and utilization of technology
Fierce Ed Technologist:
Michael Truong, Ph.D., Executive Director & Digital Learning Architect
Affiliation:
Azusa Pacific University (APU)
Technologies Embracing:
When the pandemic moved classes online and transformed the academic experience into a virtual one, Dr. Michael Truong and his team in the Office of Innovative Teaching and Technology at Azusa Pacific University (APU) were well-positioned and ready to support the 10,000 plus students and 1,000 plus faculty. Top of mind was helping faculty maintain a high level of engagement and communication with their students, especially non-traditional, first-generation students of color. Dr. Truong believes that online and remote teaching can still be high-touch and high-quality. To that end, he and his team advocated a two-pronged strategy focused on creating strong bonds between faculty and students and optimizing the virtual learning experience.
First, Dr. Truong promoted the increased use of video conference tools including Zoom and Google Meet to establish a strong social and emotional bond between faculty and students. In the midst of the many disruptions associated with the pandemic, establishing a consistent time to meet via Zoom and Google Meet provided an important anchoring for both students and faculty. Since in-person gatherings were not possible, regular synchronous video sessions allowed faculty to check in with their students and students to connect with peers. These virtual class sessions reinforced the important bonds and relationships critical to the teaching and learning experience.
Second, Dr. Truong prescribed a learner-centered course design that optimizes the virtual learning experience for all students. Canvas is APU's learning management system, and prior to the pandemic, only about half of the faculty were engaged with Canvas. The onset of the pandemic accelerated the adoption of Canvas. Dr. Truong and his team provided training sessions, consultations, and on-going support to help faculty employ best-practices in their course design, adhering to accessible, universal learning, and other online course design principles.
While the full impact and implications of the pandemic on higher education institutions will continue to unfold in years to come, Dr. Truong remains vigilant and hopeful. The pandemic exposed many technology gaps and institutional shortfalls related to equity, access, and accessibility. However, the pandemic also elevated important digital teaching and learning practices that put students first. Dr. Truong will continue to provide leadership and stewardship in these important areas.
Also, do not forget to sign up for Fierce Education's virtual event on "Technologies and Strategies in this New Blended Learning World" being held on April 28. Click here to register for free.
For other Fierce Education Technologists see:
Fierce Ed Technologist: Javier Aldape, Texas A&M University
Fierce Ed Technologist: J. Cody Moyer, Polk State College
Fierce Ed Technologist: Breanna Famoso, St. Joseph's College New York