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Matthew Kelley: Teaching online frees peak hours for research

Matthew Kelley
“I am able to teach at times that are most suitable to my own rhythms — this means I can get my writing and research done during daytime hours (when collaborators are around, when the library is open, when computer labs are available, etc.). I notice considerably more flexibility in my research schedule.�

Matthew Kelley
Assistant Professor, Urban Studies, Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ Tacoma

Dr. Kelley, an assistant professor in the Urban Studies program at Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ Tacoma, has been teaching online for several years and recently started to use the Canvas learning management system.

Value of Canvas: “Canvas has been great. Its analytics are a significant improvement� over other learning management systems.

Online flexibility: “I am not tethered to a particular place or a particular time in order to deliver my curriculum. Using little more than a mobile phone or tablet, I can participate in the class, grade assignments, or troubleshoot via email.�

Benefits for the instructor: “I am able to teach at times that are most suitable to my own rhythms — this means I can get my writing and research done during daytime hours (when collaborators are around, when the library is open, when computer labs are available, etc.). I notice considerably more flexibility in my research schedule.�

Benefits for students: He appreciates “getting to hear students’ voices in a way that is not possible in the face-to-face environment.�

Advice: “Design an explicit and logical schedule� so that students are clear on due dates and expectations. He adds, “Most likely, the first two times you teach a new online course it will be difficult (more work than teaching face-to-face), but after the kinks are worked out, it does get easier and more rewarding.�

Learn More

Read the full Provost report on how Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ faculty are enhancing teaching with technology.