Jeff Hoyle, Department of Marketing and Hospitality Services Administration
I designed ENT 221: Marketing Strategies for Entrepreneurs for the online format, which includes weekly Webex sessions. I have struggled to increase engagement and participation online, especially since COVID. Upon learning about the Lightboard Studio in the Office of Curriculum and Instructional Support (CIS), I decided to see how this space could help with engagement and if I could master the technology. I was excited about the potential the Lightboard Studio might bring to the virtual learning experience and how students would grasp the concepts of Marketing Strategies for Entrepreneurs.
With the help of the CIS staff to guide my understanding of the technology and formatting presentations for the Lightboard Studio, it was a painless journey. Before using the Lightboard Studio, students did not turn on their cameras or ask questions about the topics covered. Yet, in my first lecture using the Lightboard Studio, approximately half the class turned on their cameras, and several asked questions. I found the technology user-friendly, even for a tech-challenged person like me. The staff was a tremendous help with the resources needed to conduct an engaging class. With the help of CIS staff, I plan on implementing these tools and strategies available via the Lightboard Studio in other classes.