Empowering Change Together: Student Perspectives on Equitable Online, Digital, and Blended Learning

Join us as we delve into the findings of a soon-to-be-published research report by the Online Learning Consortium (OLC). In this session, the authors of the report will share their discoveries on student perceptions of digital learning, focusing on the question:

“What does quality digital learning centered in diversity, equity, and inclusion look like from a student perspective?”

The authors analyzed the contributions of students who participated in four panels at OLC’s recent Innovate and Accelerate conferences. Representing diverse universities, backgrounds, and experiences, these students provided valuable insights into the impact of COVID on their educational journeys, the elements they value in a learning experience, their most significant digital learning challenges, and the support they require to succeed.

Through their research, the authors identified seven key themes that shed light on what students truly want as digital learners. This webinar offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of these findings and their implications for the future of digital education.

Key Highlights:

  • Discover the impact of COVID on students’ educational experiences.
  • Gain insights into the elements students value in a quality learning experience.
  • Explore the significant digital learning challenges faced by students.
  • Understand the support students need to thrive in the digital learning environment.

This webinar is sponsored by Cambridge University Press.

Speaker Bio
Nicole Weber
Nicole Weber. Ph.D.

Assistant Professor – University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Nicole Weber coordinates and teaches in the Instructional Design and Learning Technology (IDLT) master’s degree program. Prior to her current position, she served as the Associate Vice President (AVP) of Learning with the Online Learning Consortium (OLC), where she worked closely with staff, educators across sectors, and global partners to advance professional learning opportunities, continuous improvement efforts, and research in support of quality digital, blended, and online learning. With a depth of experience leading global, national, and campus initiatives that support continuous improvement of digital, blended, and online learning, Nicole has presented widely at conferences in the field, as well as published various blogs, reports, playbooks, and articles sharing her work. Her research interests focus on the impact of technology on the learning environment and research-driven practices for effective digital, blended, and online learning, support, and leadership.
Kristen Gay, Ph.D.

Director of Research – OLC

As the Director of Research, Kristen guides the strategic vision for the Research Institute and OLC Press and operationalizes research opportunities for the OLC. She cultivates partnerships with educators, sponsors, and practitioners to drive innovative research pertaining to digital, blended, and online learning. Kristen has taught for over ten years at the collegiate level, with expertise in learning support (face-to-face, hybrid, and online), writing studies, writing centers, and adult literacy. Her research has appeared in peer-reviewed journals and edited collections focused on online writing instruction, accessibility, and healthcare communication. Kristen holds a Ph.D. in Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design from Clemson University, an M.A. in Rhetoric and Composition from the University of South Florida, and a B.A. in English (Professional and Technical Writing) from the University of South Florida.
Mark Kruckenberg

Sr. Academic Partnerships Manager – Cambridge University Press

Mark Kruckenberg currently serves as Sr. Academic Partnerships Manager for Cambridge University Press and Assessment, developing partnerships with higher education institutions to improve digital learning outcomes for their specific students and for the greater higher education population. He has been supporting and working in the higher education community for 17 years, both within universities and with providers serving higher education. He is a proud 2023 class alumnus of IELOL. Mark resides in the Phoenix, Arizona area and enjoys baking, sports, making music, and time with family.