About the Guest:

Mr. Duane Vaughn is a senior industrial engineering student at Morgan State University, aiming to graduate in December. Hailing from Chicago, Duane expresses a strong inclination towards supply chain management within various industries, including amusement parks, clothing stores, and sports arenas. Besides his academic pursuits, Duane enjoys staying active and engaged in physical activities like visiting the gym and playing basketball.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of the Dear Professor series, host Dr. Kellie Alston engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Mr. Duane Vaughn, a senior at Morgan State University. The conversation provides a window into Duane's experiences and perspectives as an online student navigating the challenges and nuances of virtual learning environments. With Dr. Kellie Alston's expertise in e-learning strategies complementing Duane's firsthand accounts, listeners gain a valuable understanding of what online students truly seek from their educational experiences.

Throughout the talk, Duane emphasizes the crucial role of effective communication between professors and students, particularly in an online setting where physical interaction is absent. He candidly shares his views on asynchronous classes, live session engagements, and the unique challenges posed by the digital sphere of education. This episode delves into the intricacies of student needs, pet peeves, and the distinction between education and training in an online context, all essential factors that contribute to student success and satisfaction.

Key Takeaways:

• Online students like Duane prioritize communication as a critical component for a successful educational experience, with a preference for timely responses from professors and advisors.
• Vaughn appreciates asynchronous classes for their flexibility but acknowledges the potential for distractions and the need for greater discipline.
• Keeping cameras on during live sessions is a pet peeve, as it can lead to discomfort and further distractions.
• Industrial engineering courses require hands-on training, which presents additional challenges when adapted to an online environment.
• Students' perceptions of the effectiveness of online learning are shaped by the degree to which courses balance education and active, practical training.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your FREE copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience from now until May 31st by simply emailing Dr. Alston at hello@kelliealston.com. Get ready to make it a mindful semester!

About the Guest:

On today's episode, Dr. Kellie Alston, an esteemed eLearning strategist with extensive experience in online teaching, warmly hosts Ms. Thomasina Tafur, a multifaceted professional and a current PhD student at Pepperdine University. Thomasina's academic journey includes an undergraduate degree in English Literature and an MBA in International Business. She boasts a substantial 20-year career at FedEx, developing robust leadership skills, and has had the unique experience of teaching at Princess Nora University in Saudi Arabia. Currently, she's delving into the world of equity and options trading and is investigating the barriers to women's participation in key Wall Street roles through her doctoral dissertation.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of the "Dear Professor series," Dr. Kellie Alston engages with Thomasina Tafur to dissect her educational trajectory and the experiences shaping her current academic pursuits. Their conversation also focuses on Thomasina's intriguing online learning experiences spanning from literature to trading to international teaching, as well as her ambitious doctoral research. Thomasina Tafur offers invaluable insights into her online learning experiences, including the development of relationships with peers and professors, and the challenges she's overcome in adapting to various online educational technologies.

Key Takeaways:

• Online learning environments benefit greatly from structured discussions and facilitation to accommodate different learning styles.
• Personal connections and networking are invaluable takeaways from higher education experiences, extending beyond the classroom.
• The pursuit of a PhD requires more than ambition; a genuine passion for the topic and practical application post-graduation are critical.
• Navigating the transition from on-site to online educational experiences poses a unique set of challenges, necessitating adaptability and patience from both students and instructors.
• Female representation and participation in the financial sector remain significantly limited, with cultural and structural barriers being key areas of concern.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your FREE copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience from now until May 31st by simply emailing Dr. Alston at hello@kelliealston.com. Get ready to make it a mindful semester!

About the Guest:

Dr. Mecca Terry is an academic professional with a distinguished background in criminal justice and higher education. With a bachelor’s degree in law and society, a minor in sociology, and two master's degrees — one in criminal justice and another in Human Services — Dr. Terry’s educational journey is quite impressive. She completed her higher education achievements with a PhD in Criminal Justice. Professionally, Dr. Terry is a former probation officer who made a significant career shift into higher education, where she now serves as a lecturer teaching sociology and criminal justice courses.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of the Dear Professor series, eLearning strategist and host Dr. Kellie Alston sits down with Dr. Mecca Terry to dive into her experiences as an online student. Dr. Alston, who is versed in the realm of online teaching and learning, facilitates a dynamic conversation that uncovers the realities faced by students in virtual classrooms. The episode touches on the critical aspects of online education, delivering firsthand perspectives that are both informative and thought-provoking.

The discussion navigates through Dr. Terry's academic journey as an online learner, her transition from probation officer to higher education lecturer, and her insights on the needs and challenges of online students. The dialogue places a strong emphasis on the importance of organization, communication, and knowledgeability in online instructors. With her expertise, Dr. Terry offers valuable advice to students and professors looking to enhance the quality of the online learning experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Online learning requires an organized structure, clear communication guidelines, and knowledgeable instructors who can guide students through the course content and resources available to them.
• Faculty must prioritize setting and adhering to communication policies to establish and maintain a strong connection with online students.
• Mentorship and encouragement play a pivotal role in empowering students and helping them see potential within themselves that they may not have recognized.
• Managing transitions in online platforms can be challenging for students; faculty and institutions should provide adequate training and support during these changes.
• The unique challenges of online education can be addressed by focusing on facilitating, assessing, communicating, and empowering—or, as Dr. Alston puts it, "FACE" the students.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your FREE copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience available by emailing Dr. Alston at hello@kelliealston.com by May 31st.

About the Guest:

Ms. Teni Ogunsan is an accomplished bioinformatics graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. At the time of the podcast, she is located in Minnesota at the Mayo Clinic, where she serves as a research coordinator. Teni is preparing for an exciting transition as she gears up to embark on her journey to medical school in Tennessee. With a deep-seated passion for the sciences fostered by both of her parents - her mother a physician and her father a software engineer - Teni is also cognizant of health disparities, especially in maternal health for women of color, and is motivated to make a real difference in healthcare after completing a dual M.D. and Ph.D. which she will pursue later this year in Tennessee.

Episode Summary:

In this revealing episode of the "Dear Professor series," eLearning Strategist Dr. Kellie Alston facilitates a candid discussion with Ms. Teni Ogunsan, providing a glimpse into the experiences and insights of online learners. Teni, once a thriving stem field student, sheds light on the adaptability required during the emergency transition to online education amid the pandemic, the diverse needs of online learners, and the pet peeves encountered in a virtual learning environment.

As Teni navigates the waters of asynchronous learning, the conversation delves into the importance of professors addressing varied learning styles and ensuring their accessibility. She reflects upon the collaboration and connection fostered through group work, despite its controversies, as well as offering a balanced critique of online monitoring methods.

Key Takeaways:

• Teni emphasizes the flexibility and ability to rewatch lectures as a significant advantage of online learning.
• She articulates the need for varied learning materials and accessible professors to form a fulfilling online learning experience.
• Group work, when executed correctly, can foster collaborative learning and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Audio distractions and the absence of non-verbal cues in the virtual classroom are some of Teni's main pet peeves.
• Teni urges for instructors to consider students' mental well-being when monitoring for academic integrity online.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Dynamic Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience and make it a mindful semester!

May Giveaway: Email Dr. Alston at hello@kelliealston.com to request a free copy of the The WIRe Journal. Deadline: May 31st

Please include your address in the email.

About the Guest:

Dr. Sheniqua Johnson, also known as Sheniqua Inspires, is a multifaceted professional who has made substantial strides in various fields. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, she started her career as a registered nurse and eventually branched out into entrepreneurship. Dr. Johnson earned a Master of Science in Nursing and Healthcare Education online and is the CEO and owner of A Better You, where she coaches and supports multitasking women in prioritizing their well-being. Additionally, she runs Stronger through Faith Media, a media company that assists individuals in storytelling and gaining media exposure through book publishing, coaching, and podcast creation. Dr. Johnson is also a prolific author with 15 books to her credit.

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of the Dear Professor series, host Dr. Kellie Alston engages in an insightful conversation with Dr. Sheniqua Johnson, delving into her experiences as an online student and the intricate balance between being a learner, professional, and caregiver. The episode uncovers the challenges and triumphs faced by online students, highlighting the virtues of flexibility and empathy in the education system.

Dr. Johnson emphasizes the significance of a flexible online learning environment that respects and adapts to adult students' complex lives. She discusses her journey through a master's program, the struggles of group projects across time zones, and the necessity for professors to understand and nurture their students beyond academic performance. The conversation spotlights the importance of professors who offer support, see the individual behind the student, and propel their learners towards success against all odds.

Key Takeaways:

• Online learning needs to offer flexibility to accommodate varied schedules of adult learners.
• Group work in an online setting poses challenges, especially with participants across different time zones, hindering convenience.
• Student-professor connection is paramount, with a calling for educators to understand and empathize with students' personal circumstances.
• Dr. Johnson's previous teachers and professors significantly influenced her approach to her work and interactions with her own clients and students today.
• Maintaining communication and offering constructive feedback with grace can profoundly impact a student's educational experience.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Visual of this episode:

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience and make it a mindful semester!

About the Guest:

Ms. Brittany White is an academic professional specializing in literacy and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in the field. With dedication and passion, Brittany runs a reading clinic on her campus, providing tutoring services for elementary school students. Furthermore, she extends her expertise to the Boys and Girls Club, where she hosts reading camps. Brittany maintains a love for outdoor activities, especially in her sunny home state of Texas.

Episode Summary:

In a dynamic exchange of insights, Dr. Kellie Alston hosts the "Dear Professor Series," fostering a bridge between online students and eLearning strategies. This episode ushers in the voice of Ms. Brittany White, a Ph.D. candidate with profound experiences as an online student. Dr. Alston steers the conversation to reveal the nuanced realities of distance education.

Brittany White vocalizes the challenges and triumphs within the digital classroom, influencing our understanding of student needs and professorial adjustments. Her narrative underscores essential components for a fulfilling online educational journey, highlighting the symbiosis between structured syllabi and the vitality of comprehensive feedback. Moreover, the dialogue opens a reflective passage to the personal side of both students and educators, advocating for a harmonious respect for time and a journey through learning.

Key Takeaways:

• Online courses greatly benefit from straightforward syllabi, detailed expectations, and a personalized feedback system that acknowledges student learning processes.
• Students require an assets-based approach from educators, where their strengths are highlighted and cultivated to overcome weaknesses.
• The inflexibility of assignment deadlines and the artificial nature of discussion board tasks are significant pet peeves among online learners.
• Constructive feedback on major assignments is crucial, as it reflects genuine engagement with the student's effort and fosters learning and confidence.
• Professors are reminded of the dual lives students lead, balancing academic responsibilities and personal life, emphasizing the need for accommodation and empathy.

Notable Quotes:

• "Understand that I am a learner. I'm not perfect. I'm a learner."
• "It's not only about your time. It's also about the student's time as well."
• "Learning means learning from your mistakes."
• "Online courses, they really do open the door to being able to have a broader selection of courses and universities you could attend."

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Visual of this episode:

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience and make it a mindful semester!

About the Guest:

Mr. Aaryn Lewis is a first-year student at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) and a recent graduate of Weaver Academy, a performing arts high school. Before attending UNCG, he took online courses at Guilford Technical Community College. As a vocal student and singer, Aaryn has shown a strong passion for the arts. He shares fresh perspectives drawn from his recent transition from high school to college and his experience with online learning that began during the pandemic.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of "Dear Professor," Dr. Kellie Alston facilitates a deep dive into the online learning experience with her guest, Aaryn Lewis. The discussion unravels the intricacies of navigating online education from the viewpoint of a college freshman. The conversation sparkles with insights into the challenges and adjustments facing students who switch from the structured environment of high school to the autonomy of college life.

Aaryn Lewis opens up about his journey as an online student, contrasting the intensity of high school AP courses with the complex yet less voluminous demands of college work. Emphasizing the importance of engagement and patience, Aaron sheds light on the essential elements that contribute to a fulfilling online educational experience. The episode pivots on how professors can enhance their online teaching through enthusiasm and understanding of their student's needs. With an honest and direct approach, Aaron highlights the impact a professor's demeanor, both verbal and non-verbal, can have on their students' learning process.

Key Takeaways:

• Students transitioning from high school to college face distinct challenges in adapting to the newfound autonomy and learning environment.
• Enthusiasm and patience from online professors are crucial to student engagement and success.
• Monotone delivery and lack of attentiveness from professors are significant pet peeves for online learners.
• A professor's humanity and the way they approach teaching can significantly impact a student's online learning experience.
• The importance of professors recognizing diverse learning needs and adapting their teaching methods accordingly.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Visual of this episode:

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource:

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience and make it a mindful semester!

Vervante: https://bit.ly/thewirejournal

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Download: https://bit.ly/thefillablewire

About the Guest:

Dr. Sabrina Hinton, an alumnus of Winston-Salem State University and a doctoral graduate from Grand Canyon University, specializes in education organizational leadership. As a proud mother and wife, Dr. Hinton advocates passionately for early learners, families, and teachers. She currently serves as the director of North Point Academy located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where innovative teaching methods and the academic advancement of preschool-aged children are the primary focus. Dr. Hinton also serves the Winston-Salem State University College of Education as a professor and university supervisor for the early childhood education program.

Episode Summary:

In the latest installment of the "Dear Professor" series, Dr. Kellie Alston hosts Dr. Sabrina Hinton to unravel the diverse tapestry of experiences pertaining to online education. The episode sheds light on the dual perspectives of being both an online learner and educator, delving into the dynamics that facilitate a gratifying virtual learning environment. The discussion orbits around the necessities for online student support, strategies for educational success, and the pivotal role professors play in shaping student experiences.

Dr. Hinton unpacks her journey through an online Ed.D. program, sharing her assimilated wisdom and insights on the rigors and requirements of successful remote learning. Integral topics such as the importance of passion-driven professors, the power of a robust support network, and the beneficial aspects and drawbacks of online instruction are thoroughly examined. The conversation, enriched with anecdotes from Dr. Hinton's academic trajectory, offers a heartfelt guidepost for educators to fortify their online teaching methodologies.

Key Takeaways:

Online education requires flexibility, commitment, and savvy technological abilities from students to navigate successfully.

Discipline and self-motivation play critical roles in attaining success in online learning environments.

Professors with a strong passion and expertise in their subject significantly enhance the online learning experience.

A supportive academic network, including advisors and mentors, is essential for online doctoral students, particularly those over 40.

Celebrating each milestone during one's academic journey is vital for maintaining motivation and recognizing progress.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: hello@kelliealston.com

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience and make it a mindful semester!