Hello, my name is Darcy!
I'm a confident & candid learning & technology leader, whose passion is helping people see things, feel things & change.
I've worked in that turbulent intersection between, teaching, learning and technology for 18 years. After starting my career as a high school language arts and journalism teacher in 2004, I shared my passion for learning and teaching with primary, secondary & college educators from Pennsylvania to Florida, and even in frozen Oslo, Norway. I've designed and engineered online, face-to-face, and blended instruction at St. Petersburg College, and I've served as the Senior Faculty Development & Enrichment Specialist at Saint Leo University, where I was also an adjunct faculty member.
I have built fun & engaging learning experiences for Outback Steakhouse (Bloomin' Brands, Inc.), and I've led the design, engineering & assessment of learning and development projects for Security Operations Center personnel as Senior Instructional Designer for cybersecurity firm ReliaQuest.
I currently lead Citi's Digital Learning Design & Development team at their Senior Manager/VP. I also serve as a MOOC Teaching Assistant in the University of Maryland Global Campus Instructional Design & Technology Micromasters program.
I enjoy hiking, writing dangerous yet accessible HTML+CSS+Javascript, learning American Sign Language, & attempting to play the ukulele. You're invited to join me on my quest to thoughtfully design and apply instructional methods, technology & data to achieving business outcomes!
My vision is leading a team of fellow learning-focused practitioners who serve as learning business partners that foster growth & excellence throughout an organization.
Identity
Skills
- Learning Leadership
- E-Learning
- Instructional Design
- Adult Education
NUMBERS
Testimonials
A Citi Colleague
Here are the things I appreciate about working with Darcy:
Sense of humor (never inappropriate);
Collaboration - a team is better with him on it;
FAST - fast learner, fast with technology, quick to make connections, you name, he's fast;
Expertise - Darcy brings a lot of expertise to the table in regards to training and technology.
A Citi Colleague
Darcy is quite simply a remarkable colleague. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable and a skilled communicator. He embodies an amazing work ethic and sound perspective as he proactively influences processes and influences his coworkers.
Abby Boyle, VP of Recruiting
Love how it ties back to values and gives the why and it's step by step. It's lovely, even if compliance is not the most interesting content. And it's all branded; just makes it feel important and legit.
Stephanie Duany, HR Specialist
I wanted to give a HUGE shoutout and thank you to Darcy, and let you know he has been an incredible teammate and partner, helping me through the consent form and a couple of one-offs that have come up when using the submission form itself. He is always so kind, professional and didn't hesitate to help, answer questions, or think of solutions to make this as efficient and impactful for the field. I am sincerely appreciative of his time and assistance and wanted to let you know you've got a gem on your team!
Eduardo Gonzalez, Instructional Media Developer
I've had the pleasure of working with Darcy at two different locations and have always been impressed with his work ethic, skills, and his character. Darcy is a natural leader, a technology whiz, an innovator and an all-around good guy who brings out the best in others. While working with him through the years I have been able to see him seamlessly transition into the role of a true leader. It really is amazing to see him engage and draw in so many of his peers while also commanding their respect and attention. He accomplishes this not only with co-workers but with colleagues from other schools and just about everyone he meets. Another aspect about him that bears mention is how generous he is to co-workers with his time and knowledge. I have been the beneficiary of his largess on many occasions and can say that the best truly collaborative moments I've experienced in higher education have been with Darcy.
Dr. Jeff Borden, Chief Innovation Officer
Bringing Darcy to our team was one of the top wins we had while I was at Saint Leo. Over time I have found that 10% of the people I work with are true "rock stars" - the kind of people you want to work with again and again. Darcy fits into that category completely. His attention to detail, his ability to critically analyze issues, his problem solving acumen - all were extremely helpful in our efforts. I would highly recommend Darcy for work with any organization. He obviously has great strength in terms of instructional design and training / faculty development, but also in process management, strategic initiative work, and implementation, he shines. Any organization would be better off with Darcy's exceptional team mentality as well as talented individual contribution.
Karen Walker, Instructional Design Technician
Darcy lives his passion for learning every day. Already more knowledgeable than many in the field, he continues his pursuit of identifying emerging learning technologies and applying the most current research-driven design strategies. Furthermore, his enthusiasm for high-quality course development is contagious. As a member of Darcy's team, I know the end results of our projects will be excellent because of his effectiveness as a project manager, instructional designer, collaborator, and communicator. It has been an honor and a joy to work with Darcy.
Brian Donahower, Instructional Design Technician
You are such a geek – awesome work Darcy! [...] The common element throughout is your instructional design and comprehensive storyboarding. Now, I realize my commentary is from the bottom up – but in a quasi-peer-to-peer sense, I wanted to acknowledge your world-class instructional design and the great work you're doing. In fact, your design consistently incorporates new content attributes and pushes Online Learning & Services to higher levels of developing courseware. For that, a huge "thank you" is extended as well.
Teri Trede, Instructor
You have tremendous talent, and you "get" online learning and program/course development.
Joi Davies, Instructor
After our meeting, I felt so much better knowing that I have an IDT like you on my team. I am looking forward to creating a product that will assist the students who are taking this course on a trajectory track towards the finish line. #graduation Thank you for your enthusiasm and energy.
Shirley Oakley, Instructor
This is an excellent review! Thank you so much for your awesome instructional design talent! Tony and I both consider ourselves very fortunate to be working with you. [...] We wanted to take a minute to tell you how much we appreciate working with you on the SPC1017 project. You are exceptionally creative and your insight and sense of humor are both delightful!
Vicki Westergard, Executive Director
Darcy has creative ideas, and has developed good working relationships with the team. He is a solutions-oriented troubleshooter, open minded about other ideas. He has been generous in working with others to develop solutions to sticky points in the process or with tools. His optimistic attitude has brought a ray of sunshine and stress-busting whimsy to the team. It is a pleasure to work with Darcy.
Cher Gauweiler, Instructor
You are amazing! I really love the final product - it captivated my attention! I really appreciate your creativity and talent
Claudia Ruiz, Director of Faculty Development & Enrichment
Darcy displays creativity, original thinking, and innovative approaches in each of the projects has has been involved in this past year. When projects present a challenge, he is resourceful and able to problem solve situations that need to improve.
Darcy is skilled at gathering and analyzing information that identifies future needs and informs change in current practices. He is able to identify areas he needs to develop and set goals to achieve professional growth. This past year Darcy showed remarkable progress in areas that are valued by his team leaders. For example, he successfully incorporated pedagogical aspects in the form of best practices, case scenarios, and contextualized learning in most of the learning programs Instructional Technology developed.
Darcy continues to demonstrate Saint Leo's Core Value of excellence by constantly improving current projects such as our faculty development portal. His effort has resulted in increased traffic and visibility and in improved site productivity.
Eileen O'Brien, Instructor
Just wanted to send a personal thank you for being so quick and responsive in setting up the Blackboard Collaborate Session at a moment's notice as you were about to go out the door for the evening, and then being so sweet to offer your number for later on in the evening if anything came up. You truly displayed the SLU Core Value of community in helping me out with the last minute weather cancellation. Thanks to you I was able to still be there for the students--it all went over without a hitch--it was actually requested by one of my hearing impaired students, so I try to provide accommodations for him however possible--I think it worked well for him. So thanks again!
Stephanie Parisi, Instructional Designer
Darcy is an extremely gifted technologist. Due to his years of experience and the variety of that experience, Darcy utilizes a multitude of instructional strategies to support faculty in both the classroom and online environments. He has a vast knowledge of instructional technologies and practices, and his problem-solving skills are exceptional. His cheerful personality makes him a joy to work with, but also makes faculty feel comfortable when he's providing training services. Darcy is always encouraging and positive. His expertise and creativity has allowed the Instructional Technology Department to improve quality of work in many areas.
James Lane, Instructor
Thanks very much for your help this morning. During our brief conversation you oriented me on the technology set-up of both rooms, iTeach and Southard; eCollege logistics, including how to copy courses; and the reference, whom I just emailed. We also discussed the possible uses of, and training for, SMART technology, including Mimio. Thanks also for enlightening me to the fact that classes don't start until tomorrow! I think in 30 minutes or so we accomplished a lot! It was fortuitous for me that you stopped by.
Bruce Deveney, Superintendent
With each position held within the district, he has shown his ability to lead. His work is of a very high order and he is willing to spend the requisite time to perform tasks well. His relationship with the other members of the staff is of the highest order and indicative of his very fine people skills. He is sensitive to the needs of others while encouraging others to do their best.
Jane Blystone, Academic Chair
Darcy is a technology coach for teachers in his school district and has help PSPA develop a strong interactive website for the organization. He takes risks to learn new technology and is willing to help those in the organization who have computer phobias to overcome them and engage in the interactive site. Darcy is a teacher to teachers. He pushes those of us who use computers to stretch our skills and think about new ways to use the technology in our classrooms.
Ted Mannino, Instructor
Darcy was an exceptional bright and energetic student for me. He displayed strong leadership characteristics and outstanding creativity.
Work History
Learning Design & Development Senior Manager, Vice President
Citi (banking)
I lead a team of expert instructional designers / developers on Citi's Digital Learning Design & Development team, which is responsible for Digital Learning processes globally. We develop learning programs internally using a variety of development platforms, including evolving learning design by using next-generation development platforms such as Area9 Rhapsode. We work to drive business performance by connecting employees with relevant and innovative learning experiences when and where they need them.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, project management, banking, compliance, Articulate, Degreed, Area9 Rhapsode, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite, adaptive learning, accessibility.
MOOC Teaching Assistant
University of Maryland Global Campus
In the UMGC Instructional Design and Technology edX Micromaster Program, I engage learners & extend learning in discussion forums with practical and technical advice to deepen their understanding & application. I support the instructional team with exams, interviews, or other live learner engagement. I participate in weekly instructional team meetings.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, higher education, edX, adult education, andragogy, instructional design.
Mentor
Hillsborough Education Foundation
I volunteer as a mentor for students in Hillsborough County Public Schools via the Hillsborough Education Foundation's "Take Stock in Children" program. I foster a passion for learning & self-discipline using face-to-face & virtual mentoring tools.
Skillsets: mentoring, learning & development.
Senior Instructional Designer
ReliaQuest (cybersecurity)
I led the design, engineering & deployment of learning experiences across a variety of functions in our Security Operations Center, with a special focus on our Detection, Automation, Operations, & Security Architects & Engineers. I designed & delivered new hire onboarding experiences. I worked with colleagues on other functional area learning experiences, such as Sales enablement, leadership development, & mindset coaching. In general, I passionately helped people see, feel, learn & change, so that we could build cybersecurity confidence in clients & teams.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, web front-end development, project management, leadership development, cybersecurity, ServiceNow, Articulate, Litmos LMS, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite, GreyMatter, Splunk.
Instructional Designer
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. (Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill)
I lead innovative training solutions supporting field operations and organizational objectives. I identify desired business outcomes, design online and on-ground training programs, and select methodologies to facilitate and organize content and flow of information. Training content includes technical job skills, leadership curriculum, new food and beverage processes, and various operations-focused initiatives. I lead various project initiatives from ideation to field implementation analyzing and applying trends in learning technologies and instructional design as a standard practice. I develop learning objectives, structure learning activities, and create multimedia and visual aids for online and face-to-face interactions.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, web front-end development, project management, leadership development, hospitality, ServiceNow, Monday.com, Articulate, Absorb LMS, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite.
Senior Faculty Development Specialist
Saint Leo University
I created and maintained web-based, multimedia, and print employee learning resources, including web frontends, learning objects, and online courses. I developed solutions tailored to employee learning needs using authorware such as Trivantis Lectora, Articulate Storyline, H5P, and the Adobe Creative Suite. I further customized these solutions by editing HTML5, CSS, and limited Javascript, integrating them into workflows of other organization platforms, such as the Brightspace D2L learning management system, Microsoft Office 365 SharePoint, and WordPress CMS. I led and supported employees across business units in effective instructional practices using classroom, video-conferencing, web-conferencing, and online learning management systems. I developed innovative employee learning and support experiences, such as an intelligent chatbot for Microsoft Teams utilizing the Microsoft Azure Bot Framework. I also provided consulting and training services in the development of strategies for face-to-face, blended, and online learning environments in one-on-one, small group, and large group settings. I directed and developed whole-university, departmental, and individualized professional learning programs to enhance both instructional and student services quality. Furthermore, I instilled trust amongst the staff, made employees feel valued, exercised empathy, and always emphasized a commitment to self-growth.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, web front-end development, educational leadership, Brightspace D2L.
Steering Committee Webmaster
Florida Faculty Development Consortium
I volunteered on the Florida Faculty Development Consortium Steering Committee as webmaster, and was a frequent presenter at the consortium's bi-annual conferences.
Skillsets: faculty development, web design, WordPress, learning management system administration.
Adjunct Professor
Saint Leo University
I developed and delivered online instruction for EDU 228 Educational Technology as part of the undergraduate programs in the College of Education, where I've developed a highly-customized online course that includes humanized and personalized learning components, intelligently automated agent-based interactions, and a chatbot course evaluation interface.
Skillsets: Undergraduate education, adult education, pre-service teacher training, Brightspace (LMS), Blackboard Collaborate, personalized learning.
Instructional Design Specialist
St. Petersburg College
I managed the design of online courses, including the creation of a project management system based in Google Drive and Microsoft Office 365, web front-end development using HTML5+CSS+Javascript frameworks like Bootstrap and W3, learning object development using H5P and Articulate Storyline, and Quality Matters course quality assurance reviews. I also provided training, course development consultations and support to faculty teaching online classes. I was instrumental in the creation of workflows that led to a standardized, rapid-prototyping workflows across the leadership, instructional designers, multimedia developers, and subject matter experts in the organization.
Skillsets: Instructional design, HTML5, CSS3, Javascript, Desire2Learn (LMS), Articule Storyline, H5P, accessibility, project management.
Instructional Technologist
Saint Leo University
I supported faculty in effective instructional practice by providing consulting and training services in the development of effective teaching and learning strategies for face-to-face, blended, and online learning environments. I directed and developed programs for faculty to enhance the quality of instruction and incorporate learning-centered approaches into instruction. I consulted with faculty on the appropriate use of technology for teaching and learning, and demonstrated use of instructional technology and instructional practices.
Skillsets: Adult education, SMART Interactive technology, Blackboard Collaborate, Pearson LearningStudio (LMS), WordPress, HTML, faculty development.
Coordinator of Learning Technology
Oslo International School
In my role as a learning-focused leader, I completed strategic planning, including an creating a vision for technology implementation that supported student learning. I adapted and created technical solutions, managed technology resources, trained and supported teaching staff, and supervised learning technology staff. I served as the system administrator for the Fronter learning management system, Mandarin library management system, and various other ancillary learning technology platforms. I established a whole-school agenda for technology implementation to support both student and staff learning.
Skillsets: Adult education, international education, library collection management, hardware and network support, Fronter (LMS), educational leadership.
Web Designer
Pennsylvania School Press Association
I designed and maintained the web presence of the Pennsylavania School Press Association, whose mission is supporting scholastic journalism throughout the Commonwealth. This was a volunteer position, which included a seat on the Board of Directors.
Skillsets: Web development, HTML, WordPress, Joomla, SQL, journalism.
Instructional Technology Coach
East Pennsboro Area School District
I installed, configured, customized, implemented, and maintained the school district's first learning management system server using Microsoft IIS, LaMP, and Moodle. I managed and supported technology supplied by the Classrooms For the Future grant, including interactive whiteboards, laptop computers, multimedia projectors, cameras, and other peripherals. I taught, modeled, and evaluated the effective integration of technology into the daily tasks of faculty and staff, including hardware, software, and intranet/internet applications. I manage grant compliance, including data collection, analysis and reporting. I collaborated with the Director of Technology and Director of Communications and Community Relations to promote district programs via print, online, and broadcast media. I managed theater technology, including sound, lighting, and multimedia projection systems.
English Language Arts & Journalism Instructor
East Pennsboro Area High School
I instructed students in grades 9-12 in English language arts. I also instructed students in grades 9-12 in journalism, including all varieties of media, marketing, etc. Additionally, I managed and maintained theater audio and lighting systems.
Education History
M.S. Classroom Technology
Wilkes University
Cumulative GPA: 4.00
B.A. English with Secondary Certification
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Cumulative GPA: 3.77
Graduated Magna Cum Laude
Sigma Tau Delta
Education Skillsets
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Adult Education
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Instructional Design
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Faculty Development
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Learning Leadership
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Accessibility
Technology Skillsets
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Multimedia Development
85%
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LMS Administration
90%
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Web Front-End Development
95%
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Instructional Technology
95%
Language Skills
- English
- Spanish
- Norwegian
- American Sign Language
Certifications
Certified Adaptive Learning Engineer, Area9 Lyceum
(ID 1656288000000, June 2022)Certified Trainer, Situational Leadership II
(December 2020)Online Facilitator Certificate, Quality Matters
(License 86912, June 2015)Peer Reviewer Certificate, Quality Matters
(License 85563, May 2015)Applying the Quality Matters Rubric Certificate, Quality Matters
(License 78425, January 2015)Professional Teaching Certificate, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
(License 08605953, May 2004)
Conference Experience
"Cards Against Complacency: a party game for fatigued professionals"
(Speaker, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention, 21 November 2019)"Plan Your Lesson with 1 Sentence (the heart of UDL)" & "Addressing the Curmudgeons & Naysayers"
(Speaker, bi-annual meeting, 8 April 2019)"Tampa Bay Regional Instructional Design Consortium"
(Director, bi-annual meeting, 29 March 2019)"Differentiating Instruction with Scratch"
(Speaker, Miami Archdiocese, 18 March 2019)"Cards Against Complacency: A Party Game for Fatigued Faculty"
(Speaker, Conference on Meaningful Living and Learning in a Digital World, 5 February 2019)"Mindfulness & Success: My Plan of Action"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 17 April 2018)"Cards Against Complacency: A Party Game for Fatigued Developers"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 13 October 2017)"Build a Strong Bridge: The Nuts & Bolts of Instructor Support During LMS Transition"
(Speaker, Brightspace Fusion, 19 July 2017)"Technology Used for Professional Development"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 19 April 2017)"Teaching Strategies that Increase Students' Motivation to Learn"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 27 October 2016)"Challenges: Onboarding & Developing Adjuncts"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 4 November 2014)"Brainstorming: How do you introduce new topics to faculty (without the standard one-off presentation)?"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 25 March 2014)"Who Left the Door Open? Planning, Managing, and Growing as a Professional in an Online Synchronous Classroom"
(Speaker, Florida Educational Technology Expo, 28 January 2014)"Transforming Education With Classrooms For the Future"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania Association of Colleges and Teacher Educators, 29 October 2009)"Harness Social Media to Superpower Your School News"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania School Press Association, 12 March 2009)"Innovation in High School Journalism"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania School Boards Association Educational Excellence Fair, 3 October 2007)"High School Journalism the Joomla Way"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference, 12 February 2007)
Awards
Q3 Employee of the Quarter
(Bloomin' Brands, 2020)Graduate, Leadership Saint Leo
(Saint Leo University, 2017)Vice President's Outstanding Performance Award
(Kathryn McFarland, Vice President of Enrollment, Saint Leo University, 2014)Keystone Award
(Executive Board President Robert Hankes, Pennsylvania School Press Association, 2009)Eagle Scout Award
(National Eagle Scout Association, 2004)
Printable Resume
Printable Values Statement
My Work
- All
- #ProfessionalDevelopment
- #OnlineCourseDevelopment
- #JobAids
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FOH Practice Appa learning tool
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Chalk & Wire Bota performance support chatbot
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ShowcaseTraining Learning & Development Community
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Warm Winter Greetingsa virtual greeting
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Plant Leadership Seedsa workshop
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Virtual Meeting Playbooka leadership playbook
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Plan a Nudge Campaigna workshop
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Create a News Itema technical guide
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Practice with a Guesta microlearning sim
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Cards Against Complacencya workshop for faculty developers
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Manager Competencies in Actionan online course
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Paraphrasing Checker Activityan interactive tool for learning about paraphrasing
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Leading Food Safetya micro-course
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Online Collaboration Designa training
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Passing Data between Storyline & Desire2Learna staff development video
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MIT Launch Prepa readiness course
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History of Saint Leo Universityan interactive timeline
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Delivery Driver Cheatsheeta job aid
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Image Analysis Interactivean interactive comparison learning activity
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Vaccination Opportunitiesan informational microsite
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TBRIDG Spring 2019instructional design event
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Learning Design Analysis Surveya template for gathering qualitative data from subject matter experts
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BOH Fundamentalsan overview course
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A Peek at TALIan interactive teaser
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Increase Student Participation in Collaboratea faculty development event
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4 Secrets to Outsmart Plagiarizersa faculty development event
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Courses Daylight Experience Toura series of videos to familiarize faculty with updated user interface
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Challenges in Developing Adjunct Facultya workshop for faculty developers
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The Rocky Horror Motivation Showa workshop for faculty developers
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School of Business Classroom Introductiona faculty development video
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VoiceThread via LearningStudio Workshopa faculty development video
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NBC Learn Instructionsa faculty development guide
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Enhancing Discussions with Multimediaa faculty development webinar
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Elmo Document Camera Quick Guidea faculty development guide
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Enhancing Your Online Class with VoiceThreada faculty development webinar
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Planning, Managing & Assessing Online Discussionsa faculty development handbook
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Busting the Paper Mills - Plagiarism Preventiona faculty development workshop
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Using VoiceThread in LearningStudioa faculty development guide
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Beating the Paper Mills - Plagiarism-Proofing Your Coursea faculty development webinar
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Module Introductionan interactive introduction to a unit of study
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Faculty Development Website Analytics Reporta faculty development effectiveness report
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Guided Tour of a Textan interactive annotated source text
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Making Images Accessiblea faculty development web guide
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Choosing Accessible Videosa faculty development web guide
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Center Room Multimedia Quick Guidea faculty development guide
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Course Demographics Data Reporta template for organizing demographics data for learning design
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Video Teaching and Teleconferencing Checklista faculty development guide
Share Everything With Love
Designer focuses on writing clean. by UnKown
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quam felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu, pretium quis, sem. Nulla consequat massa quis enim.
Designer focuses on writing clean. by UnKown
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus. Donec quam felis, ultricies nec, pellentesque eu, pretium quis, sem. Nulla consequat massa quis enim.
