September 10, 2020
Chris Herren to present Division of Biology Seminar
Submitted by Division of Biology
Chris Herren, teaching assistant professor in the Division of Biology, will present "Sailing the Uncertain Seas of Online Learning" as part of the Division of Biology Seminar Series at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, via Zoom.
Herren's lecture abstract: Since the early 2000s, online learning has become increasing popular and now essential part of education. Covering the spectrum from technology-enhanced face-to-face courses all the way to 100% online distance learning, the effective utilization and continued development of learning management systems and online pedagogies have helped to drive this trend. As seen last spring, online learning allows instructors the ability to rapidly change course and replace in-person teaching. My work with online course development began in 2007 when I charted a new direction in my career as an educator. Through four distinct learning management systems and eight courses, I have navigated the unique capabilities and encountered firsthand the pitfalls of this learning medium. Currently, the Division of Biology is offering several options of in-person, hybrid and online courses to address the continuing stormy waters of public health. In my seminar, I'll present a brief history and overview of online learning modalities and learning management systems. The three courses I am currently teaching will be used as examples of technology-enhanced face-to-face, hybrid and 100% online distance learning classes. I'll discuss the pros and cons of each style, successes and failures encountered, and why I chose each of them to convey that course's unique materials. I will conclude with some ideas and suggestions from a set of summer workshops to stay on the right tack with online course development and specifically Canvas management, including synchronous and asynchronous video lectures.
If you would like to visit with Herren, please contact him at cdherren@k-state.edu.