Tag: Clemson Online

Vickie Byko, Administrative Assistant, Forestry and Environmental Conservation

“Always helpful and cheerful with a big smile on her face. She always has an answer or finds a way to help you and she loves to organize, all types of organizing — files are her thing.” – Anonymous

Shannon Stefl, Associate Director of Educational Development, Office of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation

“Shannon’s unwavering support, thoughtful guidance, and commitment to both faculty and graduate students support have made a lasting impact on my academic and personal development. She consistently goes above and beyond, whether by offering timely advice, intentionally creating inclusive opportunities, or simply being a dependable presence. Her leadership fosters confidence and encourages independent thinking, making her a true role model. I’m deeply grateful for her mentorship over the last four years and her continued support as I transition in my staff role. She deserves to be recognized and celebrated across the university for her dedication and positive influence.” – Sarah Otterbeck, Teaching Consultant, Office of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation

Joy Boatwright, HR Service Manager 

“A huge thank you to Joy for the incredible work she did behind the scenes with the HR hiring processes. Her organization, attention to detail, and steady support help kept everything moving smoothly. Now retired, Joy’s efforts made a big difference for our team. We appreciate you, Joy!” – The Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program

Clemson Online Office (John Dickinson, Millie Tullis, Gray Jackson, Sharyn Emery, David Bassett)

“I find all these people who work in the Clemson Online office very helpful in solving my Canvas issues and answering questions. Great to work with. Very responsive. Thanks for all your assistance.” – Anonymous

Michelle Pickens, CAFLS Business Office Accountant for former PSA Departments

“Thank you for your positive attitude, willingness to take on additional work, great work ethic, strong sense of duty and friendly personality!” – Anonymous

Chris Minor, Dean’s Distinguished Principal Lecturer, Department of Biological Sciences

“Chris has led a two year process to improve the textbook offerings for introductory biology students. Crucially, she obtained grant funding for the 9 faculty affected by this change to work together for a week this summer on course development to integrate the new materials. It was extremely helpful!” – Anonymous

Michelle Tuten, Clemson Online Accessibility Coordinator

“Michelle’s sharp eye and careful attention to detail have been instrumental in helping us publish a user guide for PDF accessibility that stands to make a real impact nationally. Her feedback motivated deep dives into the PDF specification, strengthening both the technical accuracy and user experience for this guide. Thank you, Michelle!” – Dan Lewis and Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility, CCIT Internal Operations

Tobie Griffin, Accounts Payable, CBSHS Brackett Hall

“Tobie goes above and beyond each and every day. She is a wealth of information and always available to answer questions regarding university protocols and procedures.” – Jill Watkins, Admin. Coordinator, Psychology Department

Eslie Aguilar, Research Lab Manager/Project Manager

“Although it is her first true job, Eslie is easily one of the most supportive and competent managers I have ever had in my career. She works hard at what she does and still manages to make everyone smile.” – Anonymous

Tisha Clark and Sue Harpel, Talent Partner (Tisha), Service Manager (Sue)

“Sue and Tisha are great resources in Human Resources. They answer every question with patience and details, are timely in their communication and have provided great support.” – Mary Erin Morrissey

By Allyson Davis
Associate Director of Online Faculty Development
Clemson Online

In a recent study, more than 85 percent of respondents believed online discussions helped them to reinforce learning and ultimately retain knowledge.

“This certainly made me sit up a little straighter,” said researcher R. Todd Kane, a digital strategist with Clemson Online. “If students are retaining information presented in the discussions, then I, as the instructor, need to make sure that the information is not only relevant and tied to the learning objectives, but that it is correct.”

Todd recommends a few tips:

· Frame the discussion: Having clear expectations on what you want in the discussion forums is critical for students. Unexpectedly, using the announcements tool in Canvas can help with discussions. Post your expectations as an announcement to the class before your first discussion activity. You can also use announcements to post wrap-ups to each week’s discussion.

· Demonstrate expertise: Use the discussion forums as an opportunity to share real world experience. Connect subject matter to examples from your own career.

· Use technology: YouTube, TED Talks, and the Khan Academy have a wealth of videos to jump start your discussion boards. Don’t hesitate to record yourself using Canvas’ built in media recorder to begin the discussion board conversation.

Learn more
Digital Learning Strategist Todd Kane will present his top 10 tips on facilitating online classroom discussions at 2 p.m. Feb 13 via webinar. Don’t miss this informative and engaging presentation. Register here.