With online learning modalities taking center stage this fall in the midst of COVID-19, Lone Star College-University Park faculty are using their wealth of experience in the field to guide students to success. One of the college’s faculty is using her expertise to help educators across the country prepare for virtual teaching and its unique challenges.

At the U.S. Distance Learning Association's national conference in late July, LSC-University Park professor of English Kristie Boston presented about the importance of collaboration and feedback between teacher and student. Over 200 educators from across the globe attended the virtual conference, which focused on creating a powerful alliance of educators to support the development and application of distance learning.

"Educators like professor Boston are showing the world the innovative and important work that's being done at LSC-University Park," said LSC-University Park President Dr. Shah Ardalan. "Many of our faculty have presented in regional and national conferences and served on distance learning and technology boards. As we navigate this unprecedented time in education, our faculty are on the cutting edge of pedagogy and technology. They continuously develop their craft to better serve our students and deliver the best education possible no matter the circumstance. Our students and their unique pathways to success are always our first priority, even during this challenging time."

During her national presentation, Boston discussed "the feedback loop” concept, which focuses on the collaborative relationship between faculty and students that is necessary in creating a meaningful feedback process. The session showcased methods unique to an online environment that emphasize student accountability, critical thinking and engagement.

"By utilizing feedback as an engagement tool, faculty create better learning environments for students, both online and face-to-face," Boston said. "The success of this method lies in faculty making feedback an integral part of instruction, requiring students to spend time engaging and reflecting with feedback to improve their learning and success in a course.'"

LSC-University Park is offering several online learning modalities this fall, including courses that are fully online based on the students’ schedules and fully online “synchronous” courses with scheduled online meetings. Students are able to choose a class type that works best for their schedules and learning styles. The college is also providing a full spectrum of student support services virtually, including personalized advising, individual tutoring, one-on-one counseling and more.

"Our LSC-University Park faculty are more than prepared to teach online and many have vast experience in this modality," said VP of Instruction Dr. Kathy Cecil-Sanchez. "All faculty have completed mandatory online training provided by Lone Star College, and a large group of our faculty has also completed additional training, including Quality Matters curriculum and a unique program created by our own professional development and faculty. Our faculty and Student Learning Resource Center librarians and tutors are ready to provide high levels of support for our students.”

In addition to a selection of traditional face-to-face and hybrid classes (a mix of online and face-to-face instruction), LSC-University Park offers a variety of 8-, 10-, 12- and 14-week classes that start later in the semester, providing even more flexibility for students whose schedules have been disrupted due to the pandemic. Regardless of course modality or length, students should expect the same level of quality instruction and support.

"LSC-University Park faculty are some of the most innovative, caring and amazing people who are laser-focused on student success," Boston said. "When you take any class at LSC-University Park, you will be a part of a community that cares about you and supports you. We value your communication, your presence and your success. We appreciate being part of your story."

Registration for the fall semester, which begins Monday, Aug. 24, is ongoing, and students can register for the shorter-term courses up until the first day of class. Visit LoneStar.edu/UP-Enroll to learn more.