Developing Confidence, Developing Skills: The Perceived Effect of Professional Development on Online Teaching

• In Event: Faculty Development for Online Learning

Abstract

Some colleges and universities have sought to improve the quality of online instruction by providing professional development (PD) for faculty teaching online. This study uses survey data from faculty at two Southern California community colleges who engaged in structured PD programs to improve online teaching. We survey faculty about changes in their perceptions of online teaching as well as their use of strategies in several foundational areas when teaching online. Participants reported that the PD increased confidence their confidence that they could provide welcoming and equitable online learning environments. A strong majority of PD participants reported adopting practices to improve accessibility of their online courses, as well as incorporating practices to improve student engagement in classes.

Authors

• Michael Hill, University of California - Irvine

• Cassandra M.D. Hart, University of California - Davis

• Rachel B. Baker, University of Pennsylvania

• Di Xu, University of California - Irvine

• Emily Alonso, University of California - Davis

• Alyssa Nguyen, University of California - Davis

• Kim d'Arcy, Saddleback College

• Cheryl Bailey, Irvine Valley College

• Vivian Nguyen, Saddleback College

• Jennifer Pakula, Saddleback College

• Tim Van Norman, Irvine Valley College