The University of New Mexico (UNM) is expanding its online learning practices with the help of Assistant Professor Stephanie Moore. According to a press release, Moore is playing a crucial role in advancing online learning globally as a speaker for the U.S. State Department's U.S. Speakers Program. She is an expert in linking foreign embassies with online teaching strategies and previously served as President of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT).
UNM emphasized the importance of flexible teaching and learning methods, stating, "Teaching and learning is a flexible cycle, with no right or wrong way to go about it; behind desks, outdoors, small groups, online, there are many ways to facilitate it."
The State Department sought Moore's expertise during the early stages of the pandemic, drawing on her extensive research in the field. Moore has been involved in online learning for over 20 years and finds it to be meaningful work. She stated, "Online learning has been around for a couple of decades now. It's really meaningful work for me."
During a recent trip to Cambodia, Moore shared research-based approaches to online teaching and learning. She emphasized the importance of strategic planning and institutional support. UNM revealed that Moore presented her findings on the varying levels of success in planned and unplanned online learning systems to educators, higher education experts, and Cambodian officials.
Moore also discussed the need for a more flexible and agile architecture or ecosystem in case of future disruptions. She expressed the importance of laying that foundation now so that if a similar transition is required in the future, the necessary infrastructure is already in place.
With Moore's expertise and UNM's commitment to expanding online learning practices, the university is taking proactive steps to ensure a more flexible and effective education system.