Minnesota Summit on Learning & Technology

Applied Learning in the Online Environment: Navigating Degree Completion Options for Working Adults and Employers

Christine Mollenkopf-Pigsley

Minnesota State University, Mankato

Tom Norman

Minnesota State University, Mankato

Keywords: Online Learning, Applied Learning, Degree Completion

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Abstract

This session will focus on best practices in applied learning in online courses through the experiences of Minnesota State Mankato’s Applied Organizational Studies Program. This unique bachelor’s completion program targets current professionals who seek to combine practical work experience with organizational theory. Developed in collaboration with MSU’s College of Behavioral Sciences and University Extended Education, this unique partnership leverages unique strengths of both university organizations in delivering degree completion programming to working adults and employers. The program is one of the fastest growing e-learning programs in the university’s extended education department and has been highly successful in retaining students with significant matriculation barriers. Participants will become acquainted with the techniques used to develop curricula and student engagement practices that they may incorporate in any academic discipline to increase applied learning in a virtual classroom.

This is a copy of the presentation from the 2017 eLearning Summit at Normandale Community College.

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Author Biographies

Christine Mollenkopf-Pigsley, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Dr. Christine Mollenkopf-Pigsley, PhD. PhD Public Policy and Admin., Walden University. Master's degree Public Admin & Non-Profit Mgmt, Metro State. MN State Univ, Mankato faculty.

Tom Norman, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Dr. Thomas Norman, Ed.D. Doctorate in Educational Policy Admin., U of MN emphasis academic & industry partnerships. Master's degree Public Admin, Hamline University. Dean Univ Extended Ed. at MN State Univ, Mankato.