Navigating the Frightening Freedom of Learning Online | Dear Professor with Teni Ogunsan

About the Guest:

Ms. Teni Ogunsan is an accomplished bioinformatics graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. At the time of the podcast, she is located in Minnesota at the Mayo Clinic, where she serves as a research coordinator. Teni is preparing for an exciting transition as she gears up to embark on her journey to medical school in Tennessee. With a deep-seated passion for the sciences fostered by both of her parents - her mother a physician and her father a software engineer - Teni is also cognizant of health disparities, especially in maternal health for women of color, and is motivated to make a real difference in healthcare after completing a dual M.D. and Ph.D. which she will pursue later this year in Tennessee.

Episode Summary:

In this revealing episode of the "Dear Professor series," eLearning Strategist Dr. Kellie Alston facilitates a candid discussion with Ms. Teni Ogunsan, providing a glimpse into the experiences and insights of online learners. Teni, once a thriving stem field student, sheds light on the adaptability required during the emergency transition to online education amid the pandemic, the diverse needs of online learners, and the pet peeves encountered in a virtual learning environment.

As Teni navigates the waters of asynchronous learning, the conversation delves into the importance of professors addressing varied learning styles and ensuring their accessibility. She reflects upon the collaboration and connection fostered through group work, despite its controversies, as well as offering a balanced critique of online monitoring methods.

Key Takeaways:

• Teni emphasizes the flexibility and ability to rewatch lectures as a significant advantage of online learning.
• She articulates the need for varied learning materials and accessible professors to form a fulfilling online learning experience.
• Group work, when executed correctly, can foster collaborative learning and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Audio distractions and the absence of non-verbal cues in the virtual classroom are some of Teni's main pet peeves.
• Teni urges for instructors to consider students' mental well-being when monitoring for academic integrity online.

Thank you for listening, rating, sharing, commenting, and subscribing!

Website: kelliealston.com

Email: [e-mail]

Music Credit: Maskros by Bowmull https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ZdbTFzb4Ne/

Dynamic Resource: https://bit.ly/drkelliealston

Are you interested in enhancing your mindfulness this semester? Incorporate journaling specifically about your work experience in higher ed. Grab your copy of The Professor's Week in Review: A Journal for Weekly Reflections on the Higher Ed Experience and make it a mindful semester!

May Giveaway: Email Dr. Alston at [e-mail] to request a free copy of the The WIRe Journal. Deadline: May 31st

Please include your address in the email.