Guest: Dr. Mecca Terry

Website: https://www.drmeccakterry.com

Remember the Time Summary:

In this insightful segment of the Dear Professor series titled Remember the Time, we step into the experiences of educators adapting to technological changes within virtual classrooms. Host Dr. Kellie Alston invites Dr. Mecca Terry to share an impactful story reflecting their immersion in online education's evolving landscape. Their conversation sheds light on the transition from Blackboard to Canvas, revealing the ripples such a change invokes.

The episode emphasizes the resistance to change and the necessity of adaptability, particularly in distance learning platforms. As Dr. Terry recounts her uncertainty about her instructor's ability to transition from Blackboard to Canvas, keywords such as "online education," "technological adaptability," and "learning management systems" highlight the core themes. Her initiative to personally assist her professor underscores the communal effort often required to overcome challenges in an evolving digital ecosystem.

Key Takeaways:

• The transition from Blackboard to Canvas in higher education can lead to resistance among faculty, particularly those less technologically inclined.
• Adequate training and support are crucial for faculty during transitions to new learning management systems.
• Students can play a critical role in assisting professors in navigating new technologies.
• Openness to learning from various sources, including students, can benefit educators during technological upgrades.
• Economic factors, such as cost reductions, might drive institutional decisions to switch learning platforms.

Notable Quotes:

• "So the most nerve-wracking moment was when my university went from using blackboard to canvas."
• "He informed me that the university offered training to support faculty, but he was not going because he did not understand why we were making the change."
• "I was disturbed. I was frustrated when he told me that."
• "I helped him… I did not want a delay in my process. It was selfish."
• "He was willing to learn. He just refused to take the training."

Engage with this candid testimonial illuminating the intricacies of adjusting to new digital tools in the educational sphere. Tune in for the full episode premiering on Wednesday, May 15, for an in-depth exploration with Dr. Mecca Terry on the Dear Professor series. Don't miss out on more revelations where students and educators share their thoughts on the online academic journey—follow on your favorite platform and stay informed!