This morning’s session was all about application. As DACUM facilitator trainees, we jumped into the FAke-CUM (Fake SME’s – creating curriculum), applying what we’ve learned by guiding a practice job analysis. Our objective: simulate the early steps of a real DACUM workshop by drafting a clear job summary, visualizing a simple org chart, and identifying 7 core duties of a selected…
Designing for Discovery: How Findability Fuels Student Success in Online Courses
The Kent State University study, “The Impact of Findability on Student Motivation, Self-Efficacy, and Perceptions of Online Course Quality,” explores how the ease with which students can locate essential course components—termed “findability”—affects their motivation, self-efficacy, and overall perception of online course quality. Using usability testing methods such as eye-tracking, time-on-task, and think-aloud protocols, the study compared…
Optimizing Instructional Materials: Five Strategies for Managing Cognitive Load in Online Learning
In an era of digital learning expansion, the cognitive demands placed on students can impact knowledge retention, engagement, and overall learning outcomes. Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) suggests that instructional design must balance intrinsic, extraneous, and germane load to facilitate effective learning. This post explores five key strategies that online instructors and course designers can implement…
Intermediaries in Action: Strategies for Strengthening Career Pathways
This report examines the critical role of intermediary organizations in the career preparation ecosystem, particularly through the New Skills ready network. The network brings together cross-sector stakeholders—including K–12 districts, postsecondary institutions, and employers—to build high-quality, equitable career pathways that align with workforce demands. Key Takeaways: Conclusion Intermediaries are indispensable catalysts in the career preparation ecosystem,…
Article summary: “Online Course Design Structure and Interface”
In their article “Online Course Design Structure and Interface,” Penny Ralston-Berg and Heather Braatz discuss the importance of establishing standardized design structures and interfaces for online courses. They argue that creating consistent program-wide design standards not only enhances the learner experience but also supports educators and institutions by streamlining course creation and facilitating ease of use. A…
Reflections on the Professional & Technical Boot Camp Curriculum Review Project
Last Friday, I had the opportunity to participate in the Professional & Technical Bootcamp review project at the Center of Excellence for Careers in Education at Green River College, an in-depth exploration of what it takes to train and support instructors in professional and technical education. Being selected for this experience proved both insightful and…
How Canvas Templates Enhance Learning and Teaching
Presentation slide deck, Part 2, October 30, 2024.
How Canvas Templates Enhance Learning and Teaching
Presentation slide deck, Part 1, October 30, 2024.
DEAL Cohort, 2024
So thrilled to be one of the collaborators presenting to this amazing group of educators part of the DEAL CFC cohort at MSU! Always thrilled to dive a little bit deeper into UDL and Accessibility in Maker Spaces, and thrilled to add Workforce training to that bag of tricks! Thanks to one and all… working…
Blog Series: Unlocking Workplace Equity with The Waymakers
Blog Post 3: Practical Steps for Managers to Foster Inclusion Introduction: In the final installment of our blog series on The Waymakers, we focus on practical actions that managers can take to foster an inclusive environment, drawing on Frank’s detailed guidance. Inclusive Behaviors for Managers: Frank emphasizes the importance of everyday actions and behaviors that contribute to an…
ANNALIESE M. BAKER 