Episode 221 | Amy Poland | St. Joseph’s University | The Knowledge Entrepreneurs Show

Mar 23, 2025
49m

Meet Our Guest

Learn More About Amy Poland

Discover more about Amy Poland and her contributions to online education through the following links:

  • St. Joseph's University Profile: Learn about her role as Associate Dean and Director of Online Learning at St. Joseph's University, where she focuses on enhancing online education.
  • ResearchGate Profile: Explore her research contributions and publications in the field of criminal justice and online learning.
  • Academic Impressions: Read about her experience and leadership in higher education, particularly in online learning environments.
  • Google Scholar: View her academic citations and research impact.
  • Rate My Professors: Check out student reviews and ratings of Amy's teaching.
  • SJC Event Announcement: Learn about her involvement in events celebrating Women's History Month at St. Joseph's College.

Feel free to explore these resources to gain a deeper understanding of Amy's contributions to education and her expertise in online learning!

Episode Description

Dr. Amy Poland shares her journey from studying criminal justice and sociology to working with juvenile offenders and eventually transitioning into teaching. She discusses the challenges faced while working with young offenders, the differences in teaching adults, and the realities of the criminal justice system compared to its textbook version. Dr. Amy emphasizes the importance of bringing real-world experiences into the classroom and her passion for utilizing technology and infographics in education.

Notes Section

Key Topics Covered

  • The role of technology in creating interactive and personalized learning experiences.
  • The importance of student-centered learning and fostering autonomy.
  • Innovative teaching methodologies such as project-based learning and flipped classrooms.
  • Challenges faced by educators in modern classrooms.
  • Actionable strategies for implementing diverse teaching techniques.
  • The significance of continuous professional development for educators.

The Role of Technology in Education

Technology has become a cornerstone of modern education, offering tools that make learning more interactive and adaptable to individual needs.

Key Insights:

  • Interactive tools like real-time feedback systems and adaptive learning platforms enhance student engagement.
  • Technology allows for personalized learning paths, catering to diverse student abilities and interests.

Notable Quote: "One of the most effective ways to engage students is through the use of interactive technology. It not only makes learning fun but also allows for real-time feedback and adaptation."

Actionable Advice: Educators should explore tools like learning management systems (LMS) and gamified platforms to enrich their teaching.

Student-Centered Learning

Shifting the focus from teacher-led instruction to student-driven learning empowers students to take ownership of their education.

Key Insights:

  • Encouraging autonomy motivates students and fosters a deeper investment in their learning journey.
  • Techniques like project-based learning and collaborative activities help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Notable Quote: "In my experience, when students are given the opportunity to take charge of their own learning, they become more motivated and invested in their education."

Actionable Advice: Incorporate activities that require students to set goals, reflect on their progress, and collaborate with peers.

Innovative Teaching Methodologies

Modern teaching strategies aim to make learning more engaging and effective by addressing different learning styles.

Key Insights:

  • Project-Based Learning (PBL): Students work on real-world problems, fostering collaboration and critical thinking.
  • Flipped Classroom: Students review materials at home and engage in hands-on activities during class.
  • Gamification: Adding game elements to lessons increases motivation and participation.
  • Blended Learning: Combining online and in-person instruction provides flexibility and personalization.

Notable Quote: "A great example of student-centered learning is project-based learning, where students work on real-world problems and develop solutions collaboratively."

Actionable Advice: Experiment with different methodologies to find the best fit for your classroom and student demographics.

Challenges in Modern Education

Educators face numerous challenges, from maintaining student interest to adapting to diverse learning needs.

Key Insights:

  • Balancing technology use with traditional teaching methods can be difficult.
  • Addressing varying levels of student readiness requires flexible and adaptive teaching strategies.

Notable Quote: "The biggest challenge is keeping students engaged while ensuring that the content is accessible to everyone."

Actionable Advice:Use formative assessments to gauge student understanding and adjust teaching methods accordingly.

Continuous Professional Development

Staying updated on the latest teaching techniques and technologies is essential for educators.

Key Insights:

  • Attending workshops, webinars, and conferences helps educators stay informed about new trends.
  • Networking with peers and participating in professional communities fosters idea exchange and collaboration.

Notable Quote: "Continuous learning is as important for educators as it is for students."

Actionable Advice: Dedicate time to professional development activities and seek out opportunities to learn from others in the field.


Conclusion

This episode provides a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing the importance of technology, student-centered learning, and innovative teaching methodologies. By embracing these approaches, educators can create engaging and effective learning environments that cater to diverse student needs. The overarching message is clear: education must be dynamic, interactive, and tailored to empower both teachers and students. Whether you're an educator or a learner, the insights shared in this episode offer valuable guidance for navigating the future of education.

Key Takeaways

Share this Article