TigerBytes

After almost two years of conversations highlighting innovation across campus, TigerBytes wraps up with a look back and a look forward. Join us as we explore the journey of Auburn Online, from early challenges to future innovations and what it all means for the next generation of learners.

Guests: Dr. Asim Ali & Amy Conway

In this episode of TigerBytes, we sit down with physics professor Dr. Stuart Loch to explore the journey that brought him from Scotland to Auburn and into the world of innovative teaching. From developing online bridge courses that help students succeed in introductory physics to designing MCAT preparation resources and advanced spectroscopy courses, Loch shares how technology can expand access to science education.

Guest: Dr. Stuart Loch

Dr. Mary Mendonça is reimagining the physiology lab with virtual reality — giving every student a fuller, more flexible hands-on experience. Tune in to hear how Auburn is building VR simulations realistic enough to train the next generation of biomedical scientists.

What happens when bold faculty ideas meet cutting-edge technology and the right support? In this episode of TigerBytes, Alycia Baggett Chastang, Senior IT Project Manager in Auburn’s Office of Information Technology, shares how Auburn’s AUX grants are helping faculty use augmented and virtual reality to deepen student engagement and improve learning outcomes.

Choosing a major can feel overwhelming—but what if exploration is the point? In this episode of TigerBytes, Craig Kaplowitz shares how Auburn’s Exploration Center helps students build confidence, navigate uncertainty, and design their future—whether in person or online.

In this episode of TigerBytes, Ali Sattari explains how XR is transforming education at Auburn—creating learning experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom. Hear about real applications happening on campus now, why XR projects need collaboration between tech experts and instructional designers, and where the technology is headed next. Plus, Ali's takes on all things Auburn in our lightning round.

In this episode of TigerBytes, Roland DeWitt pulls back the curtain on Auburn's multimedia production process. As the studio manager behind Auburn Online's videos, Roland walks us through the technology, techniques, and team collaboration that turn complex concepts into clear, accessible learning experiences.

Tune in to TigerBytes for an inspiring conversation with Shawndra Bowers, Auburn Online’s Associate Director for Learning Experience Design. Discover her journey from classroom teacher to shaping the future of online learning, what fuels her passion for education, and the one element every great online course needs.

Auburn University’s Online Early Child Development program is opening doors for preschool teachers ready to finish their degrees and advance their careers. Emily Cumbie shares how this program experienced tremendous growth through flexible course design, play-based learning in virtual classrooms, and strong community support. Discover how Auburn is helping educators across Alabama and beyond complete their college education and prepare the next generation of early childhood professionals.

In this episode Dr. Angela Wiley, Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness, shares how empathy, accountability, and collaboration fuel Auburn’s continuous improvement. She reflects on her career, building the online early childhood development program, and balancing innovation with tradition. Hear her insights on accreditation challenges, the power of storytelling, and why mindset matters as much as metrics.