Which online degree program(s) do you teach?
Various undergraduate programs
Which classes do you teach online?
CMST 101: Public Speaking
What do you want students in your courses to learn? What is the learning outcome or objective?
The goals of this public speaking class are for students to develop an understanding of the oral communication process, to aid in improving their oral communication skills as well as idea and message development, and to effectively deliver ideas.
My hope is that students will take their newly learned knowledge and use it to better their public speaking and general communication opportunities moving forward in their personal and professional life.
Why did you start teaching?
Teaching is in my family. I knew from early on in my life that I wanted to do something in teaching or training and development. After completion of graduate school, I was planning to seek employment in the corporate world but was asked at the last minute to teach a class. And the rest is history.
What advice would you give to those considering this online program?
The course I teach is a support course in a multitude of online programs. My advice for taking this course is to pace yourself and take one thing at a time. For finding an audience for speeches, think outside the box and talk to your instructor.
What qualities make someone particularly successful in the field in which you teach?
The skills learned in the field of communication can be used in many ways and in many contexts. A successful person in the field of communication knows how to read an audience and adjust messages accordingly—keeping in mind that we all come from different backgrounds and have a unique combination of values, attitudes, and beliefs that make up our frame of reference. Also, someone who embraces new technologies and can communicate efficiently using a variety of platforms will be successful.
What do you think is the biggest challenge that people in the profession face today?
There are several challenges in the field of communication, but one that stands out is the increasing demand and popularity of various forms of social media. Messages spread with the click of a button. If you are not careful about the creation of content and aware of the various audiences and potential ways of interpretation, your message may take off in the wrong direction, and it can be hard to recover.
What is the one book you think everyone should read?
I don’t know that I have one book that I think everyone should read. Rather, read what you enjoy regardless of what it is. When you do, put everything else aside and immerse yourself in the experience. Life moves fast.
Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students may not know about you.
Prior to my work in higher education, I was in the airline industry. I started off on the ground in customer service and reservations and moved in-flight as a flight attendant. I am still passionate about aviation and travel. In fact, when not teaching, I find myself traveling to new places and taking in as much of this world as I can.
