The Signals

AI, Power Skills, and the New Digital Learner: Rethinking Higher Ed with Westcliff University

Kyron Learning — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson sits down with Dr. Ying Iverson, Chief Academic Officer at Westcliff University, to explore how higher education is evolving for today’s global, digital-first learners. Dr. Iverson shares what she’s seeing across Westcliff’s worldwide student population from rising expectations for flexibility and mobile learning to the growing influence of AI on study habits, assessment, and faculty roles.

The conversation digs into why power skills like communication, critical thinking, and collaboration matter more than ever and how universities can embed them authentically into online and hybrid environments. Dr. Iverson also unpacks how stackable credentials, transfer-friendly pathways, and microlearning can support working adults while still preserving the deep value of a degree.

Whether you're rethinking curriculum design, exploring AI’s impact on learning, or imagining a more student-centered future, this episode offers a grounded, forward-looking view of what higher ed can become.

Key Moments

01:17 What today’s digital learners expect flexibility, accessibility, and bite-sized content

03:54 AI as a “jetpack” and a crutch helping students use it ethically and effectively

09:57 How AI is used for research, reading expansion, and formative assessment

11:20 How faculty roles are shifting from “knowledge keepers” to facilitators and co-creators

19:13 Building critical thinking through multi-AI analysis assignments

20:50 Communication, group work, and collaboration in digital learning environments

24:11 The core competencies remain the same even as context changes

24:57 Stackable credentials, transfer credit, and meeting adult learners where they are

28:20 Rethinking pathways: designing flexible, modular systems for real student needs

32:28 Recognizing experience, validating prior learning, and building student-centered systems

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you care about the future of higher education especially for working adults and global learners this conversation offers a refreshing and practical perspective. Dr. Iverson explains how universities can embrace AI without losing academic integrity, how power skills can be woven into digital programs, and why flexibility and transfer pathways matter more than ever. You’ll walk away with clear, actionable ideas for building programs that are both innovative and deeply human-centered.

Connect with Dr. Ying Iverson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ying-iverson-ph-d-66bb742b
Website: https://www.westcliff.edu/about-westcliff/leadership/ying-iverson-ph-d/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/
Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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The Future of Language Instruction: Classroom, Online, or Hybrid?

Kyron Learning — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In today’s episode of signals podcast, host Kelsey Peterson sits down with Richard McDorman, Chief Academic Officer at Language On Schools, to dig into the intersection of language learning, technology, and regulation in U.S. education.

They discussed how Language On Schools uses technology across their ten campuses to support students from their first contact all the way through graduation, and how tech has transformed everything from placement testing to classroom instruction. But it’s not just about the tools, Richard McDorman explains why, for students on visas, live, in-person learning isn’t just preferred, but required by U.S. immigration law.

Together, they explore why group dynamics and social interaction are so fundamental to language acquisition, and look ahead to the role AI and digital innovation might play, without shying away from the real regulatory and cultural challenges along the way. Plus, Richard McDorman shares his perspective as a certified translator on how machine translation is reshaping motivation and opportunity for language learners worldwide.

Whether you’re a language educator, a tech enthusiast, or just fascinated by the future of learning, this episode is packed with insights on what it really takes to master a new language in our digital age.

Key Moments

05:13 Student Assessment & Proficiency Measures

09:08 Student Visa Rules Limit Online Learning

11:01 Student Visa Rules for Online Learning

14:53 Language Learning: In-Person vs. AI

17:57 "AI Won't Replace Language Classrooms"

22:07 "AI Enables Remote Language Learning"

27:29 "AI Mimicking Human Interaction"

28:45 "AI Mimics Human Interaction"

32:23 "AI Transforming Education Potential"

37:56 Language Learning: Motivation and Technology

40:33 "Adapting Appalachian English Dialect"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you’re thinking about the future of language learning, international education, or the role of AI in real classrooms, this episode gives you the clarity you’ve been missing. A rare, candid look at how technology actually shows up across the student journey, from recruitment to assessment to daily instruction, and why legal and regulatory forces matter just as much as innovation. Clear, grounded explanations of what can go online, what never should, and why socially mediated learning is still the heart of language acquisition. And a forward-looking but realistic take on AI: when it genuinely expands access, when it can’t replicate human interaction, and what the next decades of immersive tech might make possible.

Connect with Richard McDorman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmcdorman
Company Website: https://languageonschools.com/
Richard’s Website: https://richardmcdorman.org/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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From Classroom to Clicks: Teaching Adult Learners and Navigating AI in Online Higher Ed

Kyron Learning — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson sits down with Bethany Becknell, Director of Online Learning and Student Success at Oklahoma Christian University, to explore what it really looks like to move from K12 teaching into leading online programs in higher education. Bethany shares her journey from 9th-10th grade English teacher to doctoral student to online learning leader and how being an adult learner herself fundamentally shaped the way she now designs for working adults.

From unpacking the core differences between teaching adolescents and adults, to rethinking what actually works in an online course. Bethany reflects on structure, flexibility, and the power of lived experience in adult learning. She also gets candid about AI: her concerns, her excitement, and the very real ethical questions she’s asking as both an educator and a parent.

Bethany walks through how her team moved from a restrictive “no AI” stance to a cautious, permissive policy that treats AI as a learning partner rather than a shortcut. She shares practical examples, including using generative AI to simulate high-stakes parent-teacher conferences and to give future educators safe spaces to practice, reflect, and build confidence before they’re in the room with real families.

Key Moments

00:03 From High School English to Online Higher Ed

03:16 Kids vs. Adults: How Learning Really Differs

07:23 Why Copy-Paste Lectures Fail Online

11:18 Flipped Learning & On-the-Job Application

17:48 When Your Teen Uses AI for Homework

21:25 Shifting from “No AI” to Cautious Use

28:54 Practicing Parent–Teacher Conferences with AI

31:53 Will AI Be Everywhere in 5 Years?

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you’re working at the intersection of online learning, adult education, and AI, this conversation gives you both language and tactics for what comes next. A grounded, honest look at the emotional side of adult learners (“Am I smart enough?”) and how course design can either amplify or reduce that anxiety.Concrete examples of transforming “lecture-heavy” courses into interactive, feedback-rich experiences that better fit online formats.A nuanced take on generative AI that neither panics nor hand-waves: specific misuses to watch for, and assignments that intentionally leverage AI for practice and reflection.

Connect with Bethany Becknell
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-becknell-93698320a
Website:https://www.oc.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Rethinking Education: Student Agency, Open Resources, and Flexibility with Dr. Scott Robinson

Kyron Learning — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson talks with Dr. Scott Robinson, Director of Digital Learning and Design at Portland State University, about the seismic shift from professors as content gatekeepers to instructors as facilitators of learning, and why this change boosts student motivation, relevance, and outcomes. With questions also from Dr. Mallory Dwinal Palisch, the conversation explores open education, agency, and the future of stackable credentials.

Scott traces the arc from the lecture-and-regurgitation model to today’s participatory approaches where students help create knowledge. He explains how open educational resources (OER) do more than save money. They enable authentic, lasting student contributions that live beyond “disposable” assignments. The discussion also unpacks PSU’s distinctive approach to access and flexibility: no separate “online college,” just one institution where students mix modalities term by term to fit real lives and real goals.

Key Moments

03:53 "Collaborative Education Increases Student Agency"

06:46 Eliminate Online vs In-Person Divide

11:02 "Empowering Learning Through Open Pedagogy"

15:47 Shifting Perspectives in Education

19:08 Evolving Learning Methods

23:10 "Rethinking Education Models"

25:39 Improving Access to Education

29:54 Flexible Course Options for Students

31:14 "PDX OAI Resource Hub"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you’re building programs for today’s learners with real constraints, this episode offers a practical blueprint: prioritize agency, leverage OER to make learning participatory, design assessments that persist, and stop centering modality with center meaningful engagement. You’ll also hear how PSU operationalizes flexibility without spinning up a separate online enterprise, creating pathways that meet students where they are.

Connect with Dr. Scott Robinson
Website: https://www.pdx.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Balancing Asynchronous Freedom and Student Connection in Online University Courses

Kyron Learning — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson sits down with Joseph Gargaro, Director of Learning Design at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, to unpack what it really takes to keep courses current, human, and effective in a post-COVID, AI-accelerated world. Joseph shares how shifting student expectations from pure flexibility to authentic connection is reshaping course design, faculty workflows, and program strategy.

From simple-but-powerful practices like scheduled 1:1 time and group video discussion boards to a pragmatic “seven-minute cadence” for live sessions, Joseph explains how his team blends synchronous touchpoints with asynchronous freedom. He also digs into adjunct engagement, continuous course refreshes, and the realistic role of AI as a “writer-in-the-loop” for cleaner prompts and clearer learning experiences.

Joseph is candid about experiments that didn’t land (e.g., generic open office hours) and those that did (structured calendar blocks, fluid content updates, and purposeful project-based learning). He also weighs the value of micro-credentials, the importance of virtue-anchored general education, and why his top advice for future learning designers is to teach first, then translate that craft online.

Key Moments

05:22 Rethinking Surveys for Honest Feedback

06:46 Innovative Teaching for Students

11:04 Effective Teaching: Keep Students Engaged

15:09 Adapting Education for Modern Needs

19:18 Future of Writing Assistance Tools

21:09 "Balancing AI and Human Teaching"

23:39 "Micro-Credentials: Worth the Cost?"

29:37 "Teaching Before Designing Courses"

30:46 Teaching & Learning Excellence Center

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you’re navigating the tension between learner connection and flexibility, this conversation gives you concrete moves to try next week: calendar-based 1:1s, group video discussions, a crisp seven-minute live-session rhythm, and a smart way to use AI without losing the human voice. You’ll hear how to keep asynchronous courses fresh with living resources, motivate adjuncts to iterate, and build project-based artifacts that actually signal readiness to employers, while grounding programs in values that cultivate well-rounded graduates.

Connect with Joseph Gargaro
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-gargaro-106788176/
Website: https://www.smumn.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Digital Accessibility and AI Innovation in Online Learning with Nic Bongers

Kyron Learning — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson sits down with Dr. Nic Bongers, Director of Instructional Design at Oakland University in Metro Detroit, to talk about the changing landscape of online learning. Nic shares his unique perspective as a graphic designer turned instructional designer, revealing how his experiences both as an online student and instructor have shaped his approach to course development. They dig into the major challenge facing higher education right now: the push to meet upcoming ADA Title 2 digital accessibility regulations.

With a small team and thousands of faculty to support, Nic explains the creative strategies Oakland University is using to help everyone get their courses up to standard and why accessibility isn’t just about compliance, but better learning for everyone. They also discuss the early days of online education, practical tips for making digital content more accessible, and Nic’s candid thoughts on the evolving role of AI in the classroom.

Key Moments

06:10 Digital Accessibility Challenges Explained

07:44 "Streamlined Online Course Fixes"

10:13 "Accessibility Lessons from the Past"

16:28 Teaching Styles: Online vs. In-Person

17:26 Collaborative Teaching Builds Student Engagement

23:20 AI and Virtual Hunting Exploration

27:33 AI-Powered Learning Tools in Moodle

29:06 Interactive Learning Tools Empower Education

32:35 "AI: From Doubts to Curiosity"

36:03 Facial Recognition Contact Display

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Nic Bongers shares an honest, behind-the-scenes perspective on leading accessibility initiatives at Oakland University as the 2026 ADA digital compliance deadline approaches. His stories about “teaching faculty to fish” and balancing creativity with compliance make complex topics surprisingly engaging. He also explores how AI and immersive technologies can elevate course design, while offering practical strategies for keeping learning human-centered and personal. Whether you’re an educator, technologist, or lifelong learner, this episode delivers inspiration and actionable insight into the future of accessible, meaningful online education.

Connect with Nic Bongers
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicbongers
Website: https://www.oakland.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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Innovating Music, AI, and Learning with Dr. Peter Folliard from Augustana University

Kyron Learning — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson is joined by Dr. Peter Folliard, Dean of the School of Music and Vice President for Innovation at Augustana University. Together, they explore how a lifelong musician and conductor became one of higher education’s most forward-thinking AI innovators bridging creativity, leadership, and technology in surprising ways.

From conducting at the White House with the U.S. Air Force Band to leading Augustana’s AI Task Force, Dr. Folliard shares his journey of discovering how the arts and artificial intelligence can amplify human potential. He discusses how his team built a university-wide AI strategy, launched the AI at AU initiative, and introduced “Welcome to the Future,” a first-year seminar where every student learns to use AI responsibly to write, build, and create at an accelerated level.

Dr. Folliard also dives into how AI is reshaping music education, expanding access and creativity for students and educators alike from custom GPTs and on-prem language models to generative music tools like Suno AI. He reflects on what it means to prepare students not for our past, but for their future, emphasizing flexibility, entrepreneurship, and the power of lifelong learning.

Whether you’re an educator, creative professional, or simply curious about how human artistry and artificial intelligence can coexist, this episode offers a fascinating look at how innovation and imagination are transforming higher education.

Key Moments

05:10 Building Augustana’s AI Task Force

07:29 Creating a Campus AI Glossary and Policy

09:52 Teaching “Welcome to the Future”

11:31 Empowering Students through Responsible AI Use

14:03 Launching an On-Prem LLM with NVIDIA

16:01 Partnering with Google for an AI Summit

17:30 The Role of AI in Music Creation

21:34 Accessibility and Digital Music Sharing

24:02 Redesigning Music Curriculum for 2025

25:28 Teaching Flexibility and the Gig Mindset

28:11 The New Skill: Learning How to Learn

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you’re passionate about the intersection of creativity, technology, and education, you’ll love this conversation with Dr. Peter Folliard. As both a conductor and innovator, he shares how Augustana University is preparing students to thrive in an AI-driven world—without losing the human heart of learning. From teaching freshmen to harness AI for writing and research to using generative tools that democratize music creation, Dr. Folliard shows what it means to lead with imagination, courage, and curiosity.

Connect with Dr. Peter Folliard
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-j-folliard
Website: https://www.augie.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

AI, Access, and Experience: How Virtual Internships Transform Education at Stukent

Kyron Learning — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson is joined by Ann-Michelle Levangie, Director of Instructional Design at Stukent. Together, they explore Stukent’s Simternships—fully simulated, virtual internships that give students hands-on career experience in a digital environment. Ann-Michelle shares how immersive, work-integrated learning bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice, helping students build confidence and career readiness in a low-stakes setting.

They also discuss Stukent’s E3 Learning Experience framework (Engage, Enrich, Encode), strategies for integrating experiential learning into higher education, and how AI is enhancing feedback, personalization, and design efficiency. From expanding access to strengthening workforce readiness, this episode highlights how instructional design and technology are transforming education.

Key Moments

00:00 What are Simternships and why they matter

02:40 Inside the immersive experience—emails, chats, and feedback

04:01 The E3 framework: Engage → Enrich → Encode

06:58 Convincing traditional institutions to adopt experiential learning

10:39 Measuring learning outcomes and post-graduation impact

12:34 How AI is shaping feedback, scalability, and design

16:48 Preparing students for ethical and effective AI use

20:23 Expanding access and workforce readiness through virtual internships

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you care about making higher education more career-connected, this conversation offers a clear path forward. Ann-Michelle shares how Stukent’s Simternships help students build technical and core skills that translate directly to the workplace—while empowering faculty with scalable, curriculum-aligned experiential learning.

Connect with Ann-Michelle Levangie
Website: https://www.stukent.com/
E3 Learning Experience White Paper: available at stukent.com (search “E3LX”)

Follow Us On
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/
Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Enjoyed this episode?
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Innovations in Online Learning and AI with Dr. Errin Heyman from National University

Kyron Learning — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, host Kelsey Peterson is joined by Dr. Errin Heyman, Associate Vice President of Learning Experience at National University. Together, they dive into the world of online education innovation, exploring how National University, one of the largest private nonprofits in the country, is revolutionizing virtual learning for nontraditional and working students, including those in the military.

Dr. Heyman shares insights into what it means to design courses around the way our brains actually learn, incorporating principles of neuroscience, cognitive science, and a focus on community and student support. They discuss the university’s focus on “neuroconnected design,” the importance of supporting students effectively, cognitively, and through fostering grit, and how technology, including AI and generative tools, is pushing the boundaries of personalized education.

They explore the opportunities and challenges of using AI to create engaging, flexible, and truly supportive learning environments that meet students where they are, not just in course content but across their entire academic journey. Whether you’re an educator, EdTech enthusiast, or lifelong learner, this conversation is packed with forward-thinking ideas about the future of online learning.

Key Moments

05:33 Enhancing Grit and Learning Strategies

07:33 University Support Beyond Courses

11:16 Generative AI: Enhancing Learning Opportunities

15:59 Interactive Learning Enhances Engagement

20:55 AI Revolutionizes Film Production

23:00 AI-Driven Education Scalability

26:34 Connecting Education to Career Goals

29:29 "Importance of Human Connection"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you care about the future of online learning, neuro-connected course design, and how AI can truly enhance student success, you’ll find this conversation with Errin Heyman inspiring. As Associate Vice President of Learning Experience at National University, Errin shares how her team is using neuroscience, cognitive science, and generative AI to build courses that engage the brain and empower nontraditional and military learners. From flexible learning pathways and AI-assisted course design to innovative approaches that strengthen student belonging and persistence, this episode offers a forward-thinking look at how higher education can stay human-centered in a tech-driven world.

Connect with Dr. Errin Heyman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/errin-heyman-edd/
Website: https://info.nu.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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Erin Hill on How Jessup University is Redefining Higher Ed with AI and Personalized Learning

Kyron Learning — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Kelsey Peterson sits down with Erin Hill, Vice President of Strategic Projects at Jessup University, to explore how the institution is pioneering the integration of AI into higher education. Erin shares the story behind Jessup Plus AI, a groundbreaking initiative centered around their custom-built chatbot, “Jessie.”

Together, they discuss how Jessie personalizes learning for students, frees up professors for deeper mentorship, and accelerates course design—all while keeping academic rigor and credibility intact. Erin also reflects on the evolving role of faculty in an AI-driven classroom, the challenges of building trust in new technology, and why universities that resist experimenting with AI risk being left behind.

Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or simply curious about the intersection of AI and learning, this episode offers a front-row seat to the future of higher education.

Key Moments

01:00 Launching Jessup Plus AI with Axio LMS

01:39 Jessie the Chatbot: Flipped Classroom, Socratic Tutor, and Task Copilot

02:19 Surprising Ways Students Personalize Learning

03:16 Designing Assessments Tailored to Student Industries

04:29 Beta Testing, Iteration, and Adding Learning Levels

11:39 Vetting AI Outputs: Frameworks and Reliability

13:46 Designing the Right Framework for AI in Education

15:03 Testing AI Behavior as a “Student”

31:20 How to Safely Start Experimenting with AI in Higher Ed

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you care about the future of higher education, the responsible use of AI, or how faculty roles are evolving, you’ll find this conversation with Erin Hill inspiring. From personalized learning pathways and real-world assessments to mentorship opportunities and internships, Jessup’s approach demonstrates how AI can elevate—not replace—the human touch in education.

Connect with Erin Hill

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prof-erin-hill
Website: https://jessup.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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How UNLV Revolutionized Online Learning: Departmental Courses, Skill Signals, and the Gen Ed Academy

Kyron Learning — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Kelsey Peterson sits down with Elizabeth Barrie, Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning Innovation at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Beth shares the fascinating backstory of how UNLV transformed its approach to online education, sparked by an innovative partnership with MGM Resorts International. Together, they explore the evolution of online learning, from overcoming skepticism and technophobia among faculty, to building vibrant online communities and ensuring meaningful student engagement.

Beth reveals the creative experiments and strategies that have helped UNLV stay ahead of the curve, like developing departmental model courses and embracing immersive technologies. The conversation dives into the growing importance of skills-based education, authentic assessments, and micro-credentials, touching on how universities can better prepare students for the demands of today’s workforce while preserving the broader values of higher education.

Whether you’re curious about the future of online learning, the role of faculty innovation, or how institutions are responding to rapid changes in technology and employer expectations, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring ideas for educators, administrators, and learners alike.

Key Moments
06:46 Enhancing Online Faculty Engagement
08:58 Agile Departmental Course Design
11:31 Innovative Departmental Course Development
15:54 Immersive Learning for Online Students
19:37 "Advancing Digital Transcripts in Education"
23:04 Exploring Micro Potentials with Academia
25:33 "Micro Credentialing and Employer Feedback"
29:16 Crossroads of Perspectives
31:25 Cultivating Respect and Skill Articulation
34:47 Online Gen Ed Academy Launch
38:32 Teaching & Learning Commons Hub

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you care about the future of online education, faculty innovation, or how universities can better prepare students for skills-based careers, you’ll want to tune in. Elizabeth Barrie shares how UNLV went from scrambling to build online pathways to pioneering departmental course models, authentic assessments, and even immersive learning initiatives—all while keeping equity and student success at the center.

Connect with Elizabeth Barrie
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-barrie-unlv
Website: https://www.unlv.edu/

Follow Us On
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/
Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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Making History Accessible: Josh Burnett on Affordable Online Degrees for K12 Educators

Kyron Learning — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In today’s episode, host Kelsey Peterson sits down with Josh Burnett to explore the creation, growth, and impact of a unique master’s program for K-12 educators in American history. Josh shares the story of how his team partnered with Gettysburg College to develop an accessible, flexible, and affordable online graduate program designed especially for teachers, whether they’re in the classroom, museums, or working with students in parks departments.

They dive into how the program’s innovative structure breaks barriers by prioritizing cost, accessibility, and a sense of community among educators across the country (and even the globe). Josh talks about the challenges and lessons learned from building the program, how they use technology to keep things personal and engaging, and their commitment to supporting teachers at every step, from tech support at odd hours to fostering those lightbulb moments in the “virtual classroom.”

He also talks about the big experiments on the horizon, what success really looks like for different kinds of learners, and why supporting teacher confidence in doing and teaching history is at the heart of it all. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or just passionate about innovative learning, this conversation is a testament to what’s possible when purpose-driven design and thoughtful partnerships come together.

Key Moments

03:43 "Affordable Degree Partnership Success"

07:38 Cost Savings and Communication Online

12:35 Enhanced Class Engagement Strategies

14:32 Feedback Sessions and Group Learning

16:57 Flexible Program with MA+1530 Initiative

22:21 Optimizing Student Support Through Guides

25:10 Tailored Teacher Tech Support

28:02 "History Is Accessible and Evolving"

31:03 Streamlined Student Program Experience

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you care about making advanced education more accessible, supporting teachers, or rethinking what quality online learning can look like, this conversation is for you. Josh Burnett pulls back the curtain on how his team built one of the most affordable, flexible master’s programs in the country and why empowering educators to see themselves as real historians might just be the most powerful outcome of all.

Connect with Josh Burnett
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-burnett-43040856
Website: https://www.gilderlehrman.org/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-peterson-b80171142/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Enjoyed this episode?
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Fostering Access, Value, and Purpose in Higher Education with Dr. Angie Paccione

Kyron Learning — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Signals, Laura Glaab sits down with Dr. Angie Paccione, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education, for a conversation about leadership, opportunity, and the evolving value of higher education. From her groundbreaking path as the first African American woman to receive a full-ride basketball scholarship at Stanford, to teaching, coaching, serving in the state legislature, and ultimately shaping Colorado’s higher ed policy, Dr. Paccione’s story is as inspiring as it is wide-ranging. She shares the bold initiatives Colorado has launched—from awarding associate degrees retroactively to expanding tuition support for foster and homeless youth—while unpacking the uncertainty of higher education funding and the growing focus on workforce value and outcomes.

Beyond policy, Dr. Paccione reflects on the personal lessons that shaped her journey, from navigating college on a shoestring budget to defining leadership through service and the activation of human potential. With her signature energy and candor, she discusses how experiences, values, and passion intersect to drive both personal growth and systemic change. Listeners will also hear her powerful perspective on Title IX, equity in education, and why she believes every student carries “stored greatness” just waiting to be activated.

Key Moments

03:31 Colorado's New College Credit Initiative

07:05 Evaluating Credentials' Workforce Value

11:54 Expanding College Access and Success

14:46 "Title IX Opened Doors in 1978"

16:50 College Life Financial Challenges

22:35 Journey to Educational Leadership

26:12 Unexpected Candidacy Announcement

27:27 Activating Stored Human Potential

31:29 "Legacy of Strong Women"

33:48 Future Plans Beyond Politics

38:19 "Align Passion, Purpose, Values, Skills"

39:44 "Team Loyalty and Commitment"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This is a conversation that blends heart and policy, vision and pragmatism. If you care about higher education, equity, or leadership, you’ll be inspired by Dr. Angie Paccione’s relentless commitment to student success and her belief in creating conditions that help people thrive. You’ll walk away with not just a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in higher ed today, but also timeless lessons on resilience, purpose, and activating potential in yourself and others.

Connect with Dr. Angie Paccione

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiepaccione

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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Penn Foster’s Playbook for the Next Education Revolution

Kyron Learning — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Signals, Laura Glaab sits down with Andrew Shean, Chief Learning Officer at Penn Foster University, for a candid conversation about the state—and future—of online learning. With over 300,000 students enrolled across high school, college, and career programs, Penn Foster is quietly shaping a radically affordable, career-aligned alternative to traditional education. Shean dives into how the university keeps students debt-free, partners with major employers like Walmart and Petco, and tailors learning for adult and nontraditional students. From embedding AI literacy into the curriculum to rethinking outdated general education requirements, he shares the strategies that make Penn Foster’s model stand out in a crowded market.

Shean also unveils the LADS model, a research-backed approach to designing learner-centered, authentic, active, differentiated, and skill-based experiences—already showing double-digit gains in completion rates. Along the way, he reflects on why online learning often misses the mark, the barriers that still exist for students, and why he remains deeply optimistic about the disruptive potential of technology in education. This is a must-listen for educators, innovators, and learners who want to understand how education can be more effective, equitable, and aligned with the realities of today’s job market.

Key Moments

03:57 "Online Education's Evolving Accessibility"

06:53 Online Learning: Quality vs. Marketing

09:50 Degree Value and Career Alignment

15:39 "Critical Thinking as Education's Cornerstone"

17:30 Integrating AI in Education

20:27 Online Learning Expands Access

23:48 "Doubling Vet Tech Completion Rates"

26:57 Penn Foster's Completion Rate Growth

31:59 Optimism vs. Resistance to Change

36:13 "Overcoming Isolation in Online Learning"

37:19 Rethinking Outdated Learning Models

41:44 Under-19 Progress Challenges Explored

46:21 Open Dialogue on Education

Why You’ll Love This Episode

If you care about the future of education—or if you’re navigating it yourself—this conversation will leave you inspired and informed. You’ll hear how Penn Foster is challenging the “cash cow” mentality of traditional online programs, designing with learning science at the forefront, and making education accessible without lifelong debt. Andrew Shean’s blend of data-driven insight, educator’s heart, and relentless optimism offers a rare look at what it really takes to make online learning effective, equitable, and career-relevant. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or lifelong learner, this episode will challenge your assumptions and spark new ideas about where learning is headed next.

Connect with Andrew Shean

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-shean

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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The End of Barriers in College: A New Approach from Montclair State

Kyron Learning — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Signals, host Laura Glaab sits down with Dr. Marc Austin, Vice Provost and Managing Director of Montclair State University’s ambitious new initiative—Montclair Unbound. Together, they unpack what it really means to “remove barriers” in higher education, from rethinking how we deliver online learning to closing capability gaps that keep students from thriving.

Dr. Austin shares a compelling vision of AI-powered tutors that call you before a deadline, curriculum designed for “Netflix-level” anticipation, and skill transcripts that give students meaningful credentials—even if life interrupts their degree. Drawing on his experience leading transformative online programs at George Mason University and Augusta University, he reveals why onboarding and offboarding students might be the most overlooked—and most impactful—parts of higher ed.

The conversation also dives into why persistence matters more than graduation rates, how to create truly engaging online learning, and why he believes optimism is essential for education’s future.

Key Moments

04:29 Montclair State's Student Success

08:17 "Overcoming Barriers in Online Education"

12:37 "New Jersey's Educational Opportunity"

15:12 Community College Costs Hidden Expense

17:15 "Online Education Quality Perception"

22:24 Challenges and Opportunities in Micro-Credentials

26:28 "Micro Credentials as Skill Transcripts"

28:57 Student Persistence and Support Services

31:59 "Creating High Engagement in Courses"

34:56 "Organizational Coordination Challenges"

37:42 "Playbooks for Online University Success"

41:30 Demonstrating Value Beyond Degrees

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you’ve ever wondered whether online education can match—or even surpass—the on-campus experience, this episode will change how you think about it. Dr. Marc Austin blends hard data with real-world solutions, showing how technology, strategy, and empathy can work together to make higher ed more accessible, more engaging, and more valuable for every learner. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or lifelong learner, you’ll walk away with a renewed sense of what’s possible when universities dare to reinvent themselves.

Connect with Dr. Marc Austin

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcaustin

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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Personalizing College: Anzar Khaliq Explains San Francisco Bay University’s Bold New Approach

Kyron Learning — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Signals, host Laura Glaab sits down with Anzar Khaliq, Chief Learning Officer at San Francisco Bay University, to explore a bold and necessary question: What if we rebuilt higher education from the ground up?

Anzar shares how SFBU is doing just that—challenging every norm, from the credit hour to the concept of the traditional lecture. You’ll hear how the university is designing deeply personalized, experiential, and relationship-centered learning experiences that empower students not only to succeed in their careers but to grow as humans. From AI-powered teaching assistants to frameworks rooted in empathy, equity, and real-world application, this is higher ed reimagined for the 21st century.

Together, Laura and Anzar dive into what it means to serve underserved learners, how education must evolve to keep pace with industry, and why traits like tenacity, optimism, and global awareness are the new essential skills.

Key Moments

03:27 Barriers to University Success

07:12 Learner-Centric Teaching Approaches

13:13 Defining Success in Silicon Valley

14:34 "Tenacity Through Competency Metrics"

18:42 Misconceptions About Elite Institutions

22:48 "From Thought to Action"

25:12 "Challenges in Personalized Learning Evolution"

31:23 "The Netflix of AP Courses"

32:21 AI Transforms Personalized Education

36:30 Personalized Learning Challenges

39:59 Rethinking Teaching for Neurodiversity

43:03 "Commitment Beyond Spotlight"

45:15 Embrace Probabilities, Not Certainties

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

You’ll love this episode if you’ve ever questioned whether the traditional model of college still works—or ever really did. Anzar Khaliq offers a radical yet deeply thoughtful blueprint for a system that prioritizes people over prestige, outcomes over optics, and action over academic inertia. Whether you’re a student, educator, innovator, or just curious about the future of learning, this episode delivers equal parts insight, inspiration, and practical disruption.

Connect with Anzar Khaliq

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anzarkhaliq

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

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Flexible, Free, and Job-Ready: The Calbright College Experiment

Kyron Learning — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Signals Podcast, host Laura Glaab sits down with Dr. Shannon McCarty, Vice Provost of Learning and Instruction at Calbright College—California’s groundbreaking online community college designed exclusively for adult learners. Shannon shares how Calbright is rewriting the playbook for higher education through competency-based, flexibly-paced, tuition-free programs aimed at unserved populations.

From overcoming institutional inertia to experimenting with work-based learning, project-based assessments, and student-driven design, Shannon dives into how Calbright empowers learners to upskill on their terms. You'll also hear candid reflections on challenges with funding, the tension between innovation and policy, and why Calbright believes the future of education shouldn’t require a one-size-fits-all degree.

Whether you're an educator, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this episode offers an insider’s look at how the future of workforce development is unfolding today.

Key Moments

05:17 Improving Student Completion Rates

07:41 Rejoining Workforce After Hiatus

12:37 Community College: Free But Sustainable?

14:05 Calibrate's Secret to Success?

18:55 "Educator's Passion: Innovation in EdTech"

21:10 Challenges in Implementing Competency-Based Education

23:04 Education Needs Diverse Pathways

28:57 "Learning-Focused Education Journey"

32:06 Empowering Change Through UX/UI Learning

33:00 Future of Personalized Online Learning

36:47 "Emphasizing Durable Skills"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

You’re frustrated by how higher ed often leaves adult learners behind. Shannon offers a bold, working model for serving unserved populations—flexible, free, and built entirely around the realities of adult life.
You want to see what learner-centered education really looks like. From human-centered design to weekly program starts, Calbright is a living case study in how to meet students where they are—and keep them moving forward.
You're intrigued by competency-based education but unsure how it works in practice. Shannon demystifies CBE with clear examples of project-based learning, skill-based assessments, and real pathways to employment.
You care about transforming education without waiting for traditional systems to catch up. Whether you’re building programs, shaping policy, or navigating your own learning journey, this episode will expand your sense of what’s possible.

Connect with Dr. Shannon McCarty

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonmccartyphd
Website: https://www.calbright.edu

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Enjoyed this episode?
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Connecting K12, Higher Ed, and Workforce for Real Change in Craft Education

Kyron Learning — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Signals Podcast, host Laura Glaab sits down with Dr. Mallory Dwinal Palisch, president, craft at Western Governors University to dive deep into the complex, and often overlooked challenges at the intersection of education and the workforce. Dr. Palisch breaks down how Craft is tackling the "boring" but critical problem of connecting K-12 schools, higher education, and employers through streamlined data and reporting systems, unlocking new opportunities for learners and institutions alike.

Together, Laura and Dr. Palisch explore why so many talented individuals, whether high school interns, paraprofessionals, or recent college graduates, struggle to get credit for their real-world experience, and what systemic changes are needed to build stronger career pathways. From stories of rural education and the nursing shortage to the need for apprenticeships across all careers, not just trades, this conversation brings powerful personal anecdotes and data-driven insights.

Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or just passionate about the future of learning and work, this episode will leave you thinking differently about how we develop and recognize talent. Stick around for rapid-fire questions, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on the skills and mindsets we need for a more connected, equitable future.

Key Moments

03:45 Upskilling Inefficiency and Workforce Challenges

11:14 Paid Trials for All Careers

18:09 Integrated Pathways for Teacher Development

24:24 Streamlined Medical Education Debate

30:24 "Rethinking Education for Frontline Roles"

35:03 Career Path Flexibility and Progression

40:21 Balancing Growth with Genuine Innovation

43:24 Education's Debt and Duty Crisis

45:49 Solving Problems with Personal Legacy

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you care about upskilling, workforce pipelines, or just building smarter career pathways, definitely give this episode a listen. The road to educational equity and workforce readiness may be messy, but as Dr. Dwinal Palisch shows, the right kinds of infrastructure can make all the difference.

Connect with Dr. Mallory Dwinal Palisch
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-dwinal-palisch/
Website: https://www.wgu.edu/

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe to The Signals Podcast and leave us a review!
Share this episode with education leaders, mentors, and anyone who believes in outcomes with heart.

Skills Over Schools? Tom Vander Ark on the Future of Credentials

Kyron Learning — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Signals Podcast, host Laura Glabb sits down with Tom Vander Ark, CEO of Getting Smart and former executive director of education at the Gates Foundation to explore the evolving world of credentialing, personalized learning, and the next generation of education. From his early advocacy for digital badges and learning records to his current work shaping AI-first schools, Tom shares a behind-the-scenes look at two decades of pushing the boundaries of education reform.

Laura and Tom delve into the complexities of skill-based hiring, the limitations of degrees as signals, and the need for richer, verified learner experiences on resumes. They discuss why the future of education lies in building better signaling systems, ones that capture not only what learners know, but what they’ve done. With humor, honesty, and a healthy dose of realism, Tom reflects on what it takes to innovate in a messy, slow-moving ecosystem and why he still believes deeply in the power of new schools, new tools, and human potential.

Key Moments

05:10 "Challenges in Personalized Learning Progress"

07:58 AI Enhancing Credential Utility

11:08 Rethinking Resume Signals

14:35 Enhancing Experience Through Metadata

20:49 Emerging Industry Apprenticeship Trends

24:53 Cautious Shift to Credentialed Education

27:10 Rethinking Graduation: Skills and Experiences

30:30 Education System Innovation Reports

33:58 "Evolution of Horizon Schools"

39:13 Dynamic, Personalized Learning Paths

42:16 "AI-Driven Micro School Initiative"

43:38 Micro Schools: Quick Launch Revolution

47:23 "Collective and Individual Learning Journeys"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

You’re tired of degrees that say little about what someone can actually do. Tom challenges the utility of traditional credentials and offers a compelling alternative vision rooted in real-world skills and verified experiences.
You want to understand why personalized learning hasn’t scaled—yet. Gain perspective from someone who’s been championing this work since 2010 and has the receipts to prove it.
You're curious about AI’s role in reshaping education. From dynamic content to project-based tutoring, Tom lays out how AI could finally make personalized, equitable learning a reality.
You care about making education more meaningful and equitable. Whether you’re in K–12, higher ed, workforce development, or edtech, this conversation will reframe how you think about learner profiles and the future of opportunity.

Connect with Tom Vander Ark

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomvanderark
Website: https://www.gettingsmart.com

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Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/

Enjoyed this episode?
Subscribe to The Signals Podcast and leave us a review!
Share this episode with education leaders, mentors, and anyone who believes in outcomes with heart.