| Biography | |
|---|---|
 Prof. Sandra Poirier Middle Tennessee State University, USA |
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| Title: Delivering sustainable online instructional models | |
| Abstract: When the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many colleges and universities to close campuses in April 2020, higher learning institutions sought short-term distance learning solutions to brace for the immediate impact. Most schools were already able to deliver some level of online learning but only in a small scale — perhaps a few fully online programs or online course options. But they were not prepared to immediately scale these online offerings to support their entire course catalog. It is clear there were successes, however emergency distance learning also resulted in a lot of disappointment. Now in 2021, university leaders realize they need a virtual structure that can be delivered effectively and consistently as they adapt to new needs and concerns, including the understanding that lives can change in an instant. When changes do occur, higher educational pursuits should not have to end or suffer. This presentation will focus on rethinking the learning experience by introducing the 2020 Higher Education Digital Capacity (HEDC) Framework through a learner lifecycle perspective. Additionally, online teaching methods and strategies that complement the framework will be included. | |
| Biography: Dr. Sandra Poirier has been employed at Middle Tennessee State University, since 2005 currently as a Professor of Nutrition and Food Science. She received her B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Family and Consumer Sciences from Florida State University and University of Arizona respectively. Her doctorate in Adult Education and Human Resources Development was received in 1998 from Florida International University in Miami, Florida with her dissertation in the area of health-related quality of life. She has been a licensed dietitian since 1986. Prior to coming to MTSU, Dr. Poirier taught three years at Zayed University in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Additionally, she has worked at the University of Florida Extension Service, Florida International University, Florida Atlantic University, University of Arizona Extension Service, and Alberta Agriculture, Alberta, Canada. Dr. Poirier has more than 15 years of international teaching experience working in culturally diverse environments. Her strengths include creating innovative educational programs with a focus on food and culture, identifying appropriate outreach efforts to solve community problems, and empowering students for successful careers. She has been recognized for her ability to create and teach online courses, work as an advisor for student organizations, and creating positive educational environments for optimal learning. In 2020, she was invited to participate in the United Nation’s Commission for Social Development representing the NGO-International Federation for Home Economics in Bonn, Germany. She has published over 38 journal articles and been invited to speak in Malaysia, Switzerland, Germany, Poland, Austria, Puerto Rico, Iceland, Australia, Greece and the Andros Islands in the Caribbean. | |
