March 1, 2013
Matthew Kelley: Teaching online frees peak hours for research
“I am able to teach at times that are most suitable to my own rhythms — this means I can get my writing and research done during daytime hours (when collaborators are around, when the library is open, when computer labs are available, etc.). I notice considerably more flexibility in my research schedule.”
Matthew Kelley
Assistant Professor, Urban Studies, UW Tacoma
Dr. Kelley, an assistant professor in the Urban Studies program at UW Tacoma, has been teaching online for several years and recently started to use the Canvas learning management system.
Value of Canvas: “Canvas has been great. Its analytics are a significant improvement” over other learning management systems.
Online flexibility: “I am not tethered to a particular place or a particular time in order to deliver my curriculum. Using little more than a mobile phone or tablet, I can participate in the class, grade assignments, or troubleshoot via email.”
Benefits for the instructor: “I am able to teach at times that are most suitable to my own rhythms — this means I can get my writing and research done during daytime hours (when collaborators are around, when the library is open, when computer labs are available, etc.). I notice considerably more flexibility in my research schedule.”
Benefits for students: He appreciates “getting to hear students’ voices in a way that is not possible in the face-to-face environment.”
Advice: “Design an explicit and logical schedule” so that students are clear on due dates and expectations. He adds, “Most likely, the first two times you teach a new online course it will be difficult (more work than teaching face-to-face), but after the kinks are worked out, it does get easier and more rewarding.”
Learn More
Read the full Provost report on how UW faculty are enhancing teaching with technology.