TOPcast: The Teaching Online Podcast

Guest market analyst Dr. Glenda Morgan joins hosts Kelvin and Tom to share a concentrated distillation of wise insights on online enrollment growth, student success online, and much more.

Hosts Kelvin and Tom examine recent trend data on the academic readiness and unique challenges of current K12 students who will be college students soon. Digital learning professionals can bring our strengths to the table to partner with other colleagues in better supporting these learners.

Return guest Dr. Jocelyn Widmer joins hosts Kelvin and Tom to discuss a brand new book focused on leading the strategy and practice of online higher education and clarifying the role of the Chief Online Learning Officer (COLO).

Hosts Kelvin and Tom speak about (and to) the “core audience” of online faculty, instructional designers, and administrative leaders, alongside many other roles, to unpack the podcast’s conceptualization of online education as centered on optimizing course design and teaching.

Return guest Dr. Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich joins hosts Kelvin and Tom to share hard won expert tips on improving online program marketing and enrollment.

With ten years in the rear view mirror, hosts Tom and Kelvin talk through insights gained about the field of online education and the podcast itself after they reviewed the “Top10” episodes of TOPcast. [Spoiler: Tune in for a big announcement!]

Curtiss Barnes, CEO of the 1EdTech Consortium with over 30 years in education, drops by for an insightful conversation. He highlights the rebranding journey from IMS Global to 1EdTech, focusing on the importance of collaboration in shaping educational standards. The discussion also touches on the impact of data privacy in technology and the value of membership for higher education institutions. Barnes emphasizes how simplified mission and trusted apps can enhance digital learning, paving the way for innovation and improved credentialing.

Hosts delve into how institutions can avoid the looming enrollment cliff by adopting a values-driven strategy. They reflect on the tension between in-person and online education, showcasing different institutional responses. Anecdotes emphasize the power of aligning personal passions with core values. The conversation highlights the need for intentional strategies to address demographic shifts and evolving educational trends, urging colleges to cater to diverse learners while staying mission-focused.

Guest Dr. Thomas J. (Tom) Tobin joins hosts Tom and Kelvin for a slightly spicy conversation about the extent to which general teaching behaviors can be meaningfully separated from other factors such as course modality, student characteristics, institutional resources, and more.

Hosts Kelvin and Tom discuss the challenge, still present after 30 years, of helping others (e.g., policymakers, potential students, etc.)  understand what a  “good online course” is without experiencing one themselves. They discuss why this still matters and what approaches might help.