WSSU faculty earn ACUE Excellence in Online Instruction national certification to advance student success
Winston-Salem State University has completed its fourth cohort in the Excellence in Online Instruction Initiative, a program that equips faculty with evidence-based strategies to enhance student learning and success, raising the bar for educational excellence.
In partnership with the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE), the university’s Center for Innovative and Transformative Instruction (CITI) offers faculty the opportunity to earn a national certification in Effective Online Teaching Practices, a 25-module, fully online course endorsed by the American Council on Education (ACE).
This year, 24 WSSU faculty members, including department chairpersons balancing full teaching loads and administrative duties, completed the rigorous 25-week program and recently earned their Certificate in Effective College Instruction.
The faculty members were recognized at the culminating ACUE Pinning Ceremony that celebrates the investment in their professional development.
“This certificate is no small feat,” said Dr. Frank Ingram, associate provost for academic budget and faculty affairs. “It represents you going above and beyond – not just meeting expectations but exceeding them.”
To date, 146 WSSU faculty members are ACUE-credentialed educators, part of a strategic initiative to elevate the quality of instruction and improve student outcomes across the university. Faculty participants are trained to implement research-backed practices designed to boost student retention, persistence and overall academic success.
“Faculty members were able to learn exciting and innovative ways to transform student learning. They are encouraged to continue using the evidence-based strategies they have gained, which will support students in their learning process and promote success in their courses,” said Dr. Wanda White Walker, director of CITI.
Dr. William T. Booth II, assistant professor of clinical laboratory science, said, “This ACUE course is not just to help you improve your online teaching, but it also helps you evolve from antiquated and ineffective teaching methods. The times will always change and we, as educators, have to change with them.”
Dr. Melissa R. Bowman Foster, assistant professor of healthcare management, said the online course helped to hone her skills. “I already have experience with online instruction, however, this course is not just for those new to online instruction but also for those more seasoned. It has helped me improve the quality of my instruction as well as the experience for my students.”
Dr. Jeremiah E. Shipp, senior faculty development specialist for WSSU, said intentional engagement, compassionate pedagogy and curricular relevancy are all exemplary of great teaching.
“By earning this certification, you are well-equipped to embody evidence-based instructional acumen.”
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