DOL Pod | Podcast on RSS.com

DOL Pod

by The Office of Digital and Online Learning

Season 4

Designing For Difference: AI's Role in Supporting Neurodivergent Learners

What if we stopped trying to "fix" the learner and started reimagining the environment? In this episode of the DOL Pod, we explore the transformative intersection of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Artificial Intelligence—a space where technology transcends being a mere trend to become a vital "cognitive prosthetic." For students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodivergent profiles, we dive into how generative AI bridges gaps in executive functioning by enhancing focus, reading, and organization. This shift represents a profound evolution in academic support, moving us into a new era of "help" where technology doesn't do the work for the student, but provides the essential functional support that allows their own intellect to shine. Along the way, we examine the institutional responsibility to ensure these tools are accessible to all, ensuring that innovation translates into true equity. Featured guest: Ms. Tamasa Nelson, Director, Learning Design and Quality Assurance Office of Digital and Online Learning Howard University

Building a Virtual Campus Community

Can you replicate the "hallway factor" online? Dr. Mariko Carson of the Howard University School of Business joins the DOL Pod to explain how they are redefining the online graduate experience. Discover how virtual students move beyond the "remote" label to lead campus organizations and build lifelong networks within the fabric of the Howard experience. Whether you are an educator or a student, this episode offers a roadmap for building human-centered digital communities that maintain a high standard of excellence. About Dr. Mariko L. Carson: Dr. Mariko L. Carson is Director of Graduate Affairs at Howard University's School of Business, where she provides strategic oversight of graduate programs and drives recruitment and enrollment initiatives. Dr. Carson’s career spans diverse roles in higher education, including academic integrity case management, enrollment coaching and academic advising, instructional design, and human resource management. A published scholar and active presenter, Dr. Carson's research focuses on academic integrity, social justice in postsecondary literacy, and equity in education. Her work has appeared in publications by John Wiley & Sons and Palgrave Macmillan. She serves as Conference Speakers Chair for the College Reading and Learning Association and previously held the position of Assistant Editor for the Journal of College Reading and Learning. She currently serves as a Lecturer at the University of Maryland College Park and Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), teaching academic writing and human resource management. Dr. Carson holds an Ed.D. in Adult Literacy from Nova Southeastern University, an M.S. in Human Resource Management and Graduate Certificate in Learning Design & Technology from UMGC, and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Arizona. Learn more about the Howard University School of Business.

The Ethics of AI in Black Historical Research: Whose Story is AI Telling?

Join host Alejandro Otero and Dr. Lucretia Williams, Senior Research Scientist at Howard University, for an enlightening conversation on “The Ethics of AI in Black Historical Research.” In this episode, you’ll discover how to identify and address bias in AI, why digitizing Black historical archives matters, and practical ways to collaborate across fields. Dr. Williams shares real-world insights from Howard University’s initiatives and community-based research, highlighting concrete strategies that advance equity, preserve Black narratives, and guide responsible use of AI. Whether you’re passionate about history, technology, or digital justice, you’ll walk away with actionable ideas and a clear understanding of how AI can be harnessed for more inclusive historical research and education. Learn more about Dr. Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucretia-williams-ph-d-4b525461/ http://www.lucretiawilliams.com/#BlackHistory #AIethics #DigitalArchives #RepresentationMatters #InclusiveAI #TechForGood #HistoryMatters #ArtificialIntelligence #BlackVoices #SocialJustice #EquityInAI #PreserveBlackHistory#DigitalJustice

Building Online Connection and Community

In the latest episode on the Digital and Online Learning podcast (DOL POD), we welcome Ke'Anna Skipwith, Director of Academic Innovation and Strategic Initiatives and Interim Executive Director for Digital and Online Learning at Howard University. This episode examines the development of genuine connections and community in online learning, from fostering a sense of belonging among distance learners to intentional course design and the evolving role of instructors. Ms. Skipwith shares practical strategies and insights from her book, Best Practices in Engaging Online Learners Through Active and Experiential Learning Strategies, as well as her experience and research, including the transformative power of AI in education and how adaptive technologies can make learning more inclusive. More about Ms. Ke'Anna Skipwith: Ke'Anna Skipwith serves as the Interim Executive Director of Digital and Online Learning and the Director of Academic Innovation and Strategic Initiatives at Howard University. In these roles, she supports faculty, students, schools, and colleges in the development and implementation of new academic programs, online initiatives, and strategic partnerships with corporations, government agencies, and other organizations. Her work aligns with the office's mission to provide leadership in creating innovative, interdisciplinary academic offerings that respond to market demands and further Howard University's strategic goals. With over a decade of experience advancing academic innovation, Ms. Skipwith is committed to enhancing the student learning experience through the thoughtful integration of technology, inclusive instructional design, and digital accessibility. Her efforts directly support the office's vision to expand access to a Howard education for global and non-traditional learners through collaborative, research-based, and technology-driven program development. An accomplished scholar and practitioner, Ms. Skipwith has authored several peer-reviewed articles and is a frequent presenter on topics including fostering diversity in learning, building community among online learners, and advancing academic and digital accessibility. She is also the co-author of the book Best Practices in Engaging Online Learners Through Active and Experiential Learning Strategies. linkedin.com/in/keannaskipwith Best Practices in Engaging Online Learners Through Active and Experiential Learning Strategies: https://www.amazon.com/Practices-Engaging-Learners-Experiential-Strategies/dp/0367690942/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

The W.H.O.L.E. Experience Framework and Digital Justice in Online Learning

Tune into our latest episode as host Alejandro Otero sits down with Dr. Morris Thomas, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Wiley University. Together, they explore digital learning through the lens of Dr. Thomas's innovative W.H.O.L.E. Experience Framework. Discover how digital justice can be integrated into education by creating welcoming, holistic, open, liberating, and empowering virtual environments. Dr. Thomas draws on his wealth of experience to share practical insights for instructors seeking to create equitable and human-centered digital classrooms. Get ready for actionable strategies and an inspiring look at the future of online education. Don't miss out—listen now and join the conversation about shaping tomorrow's digital classrooms! Learn more about Dr. Thomas: Guest Bio: Dr. Morris Thomas is Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Wiley University, championing innovation in digital learning. With over a decade of experience, he has held roles such as Assistant Provost for Digital and Online Learning and Director of the Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Assessment at Howard University. Known for his thought leadership, he has influenced academic excellence through advisory work, global keynotes, and support for educators in transforming higher education. https://www.linkedin.com/in/morris-thomas-phd-mba-pmp-59919b45/ https://www.wileyc.edu/news/wiley-university-welcomes-dr-morris-thomas-as-provost-to-lead-bold-academic-vision https://www.wileyc.edu/provost-thomas-articles https://www.highereducationdigest.com/the-whole-experience-reflecting-on-the-state-of-higher-education-leadership/

The Two Futures of AI in Education: Opportunity or Digital Divide

Join host Alejandro Otero and Ms. Etoulia Salas-Burnett, Director of the Center for Digital Business at Howard University, for a focused discussion on the impact of AI in education. They discuss how universities unite business and tech through AI programs, real-world partnerships, and commitment to developing student AI skills. Learn how the Center for Digital Business equips students for an AI-driven workforce, addresses the digital divide, and leads on ethical AI practices. Hear specific strategies for advancing digital justice, cultivating essential AI expertise, and expanding opportunities in education. This episode provides practical perspectives for educators, students, and technologists on how AI is transforming learning environments and the steps needed to build inclusive, future-ready education. #AIEducation #DigitalEquity #EdTech #AIinTheClassroom #FutureOfWork #AIethics #InclusiveEducation #HowardUniversity #DigitalBusiness #EducationInnovation Learn more about Ms. Etoulia Salas-Burnett and the Center for Digital Business. etoulia.burnett@howard.edu http://etoulia.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/etoulia-salas/ https://digitalbusiness.howard.edu https://business.howard.edu/centers/center-digital-business

Assessing and Predicting Job Outcomes in AI

Join host Alejandro Otero for an insightful episode featuring Dr. Talitha Washington, Executive Director of the Howard Center for Applied Data Science and Analytics, as they dive deep into the evolving world of artificial intelligence and its impact on the future of work. In this conversation, Dr. Washington discusses what defines an "AI job" and the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to excel in an AI-driven workforce. Discover how Howard University is spearheading a national research effort to build bridges between academia, industry, and government, developing forward-thinking AI curricula and preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow. Explore the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid technological advancements, the critical role of curiosity and adaptability, and the network's ambitious goals in defining and shaping the future of the AI workforce. Whether you're an educator, student, industry professional, or simply curious about AI, this episode offers expert perspectives and inspiration for navigating the changing landscape of work in the age of artificial intelligence. #AI #FutureOfWork #WorkforceDevelopment #ArtificialIntelligence #Careers #AIEducation #HigherEducation #Innovation #HowardUniversity #ProfessionalDevelopment #JobTrends #EdTech #Leadership More about Dr. Talitha Washington: https://profiles.howard.edu/talitha-washington-0 https://www.linkedin.com/in/talithawashington/overlay/contact-info/ https://thedig.howard.edu/all-stories/howard-university-researcher-investigates-future-ai-jobs-nsf-funded-project https://provost.howard.edu/CADSA https://thedig.howard.edu/announcements/announcing-howard-universitys-groundbreaking-ai-initiative

Season 3

The Transformative Power of Online Learning

Season 3 ep 1 Megan VanBuskirk, Dean of Online Programs and Learning Support at Germanna Community College, and a guest on the DOL POD podcast, shares her inspiring journey from earning a GED to pursuing a doctorate. She highlights the transformative power of online learning and discusses her research on gender and epistemic injustice in higher education. VanBuskirk advocates for the upward mobility and mentorship of digital education experts, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning, equity, and inclusivity. Her experiences have fueled her passion for advocating for greater access and equity in higher education, especially in the face of potential cuts to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. VanBuskirk stresses the need for continued commitment to the field to ensure accessible learning opportunities for diverse learners. This episode aims to inspire and support leaders in digital education as they innovate and improve learning experiences. As she finishes her Ed.D. in Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education at The Johns Hopkins University, she continues to advocate for critical consciousness in the digital education space among learners and professionals.

Season 2

Cristi Ford, PhD

Dr. Cristi Ford Dr. Cristi Ford serves as the Chief Learning Officer at D2L, bringing more than 20 years of experience in higher education, secondary education, project management, program evaluation, training, and student services. In this role, she provides strategic leadership and thought direction, ensuring that D2L remains at the forefront of innovation in learning, teaching, and academic affairs. Her work extends across institutional, corporate, and global landscapes, driving impactful change in digital learning environments. Dr. Ford has held key roles across secondary and higher education, as well as on the international stage, where she has played a pivotal role in expanding online learning in both the U.S. and the African continent. Her expertise includes building and scaling online education programs, faculty development, instructional design, and pedagogical best practices. Dr. Ford's contributions to the field have been widely recognized. She was selected as a 2022 OLC Fellow by the Online Learning Consortium—the highest professional distinction awarded by the association—in recognition of her dedication to advancing quality online education. Known for her visionary leadership, she is committed to helping institutions build capacity, scale digital learning, and enhance student success. And in In 2024, she received the Mildred and Charles Wedemeyer Award, recognizing her as an outstanding practitioner in distance education. Howard University Undergraduate Degree Completion Program https://provost.howard.edu/undergraduate-online-degree-completion

Ensuring Equitable Access to Higher Education for All Learners

Navigating the college system can be daunting, especially for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds or those with unique educational needs. The complexities of applications, financial aid, and academic support can create significant barriers, widening the gap in educational opportunity. In today's episode, Dr. Ouide McAffee will provide insight and explore strategies to close these gaps and ensure that all learners have equitable access to higher education, regardless of their background or circumstances. Ouida McAfee, PhD, CPC Director, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning Coahoma Community College Link to Propel.app: https://www.propel.app

1 of 2