Which classes do you teach online?
COMM 6910: MIS Capstone Project; MIS Foundations; MIS Research Methods; MIS Continuation
What do you want students in your courses to learn? What is the learning outcome or objective?
I want my students to have knowledge of the field of interdisciplinary studies and to be able to market themselves with their capstone internship, project or thesis.
An alignment with SUU as a liberal arts university, the MIS degree program at SUU gives students the chance to synthesize knowledge from several academic programs in order to gain a more dynamic understanding of their chosen fields of study. This degree gives students the opportunity to address the rapidly evolving demand by employers for knowledge and skills that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Why did you start teaching?
A few key teachers impacted me positively. They told me to pass along onto others what they did for me. Plus, I have a passion to help others find their gifts and talents.
What advice would you give to those considering the online MIS program?
Believe in YOU. You've got this. You can do this! :)
What qualities make someone particularly successful in the field in which you teach?
They have a "growth" mindset, see possibilities, think outside of the box, are servant leaders and will do whatever it takes to help others. They also tend to have what "Life After College" author Jeffrey Selingo recommends college graduates have: "this set of often overlapping skills: curiosity, creativity, grit, digital awareness, contextual thinking, and humility."
What do you think is the biggest challenge that people in this field face today?
Those with a "fixed" mindset do not understand how an interdisciplinary studies degree is what employers are asking for today. They also do not see that one who studies multiple disciplines is actually more marketable. However, one with a "growth" mindset does.
What is the one book you think everyone should read?
But for a Small Moment by Neal A. Maxwell
Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students might not know.
I was once a guest clown with Ringling Bros. Circus.
