I teach in Concordia University Irvine’s M.A.Ed. School Counseling program. I am also the program coordinator for the practicum and fieldwork program. I love this field of study because children and adolescents are fascinating. There is such a wide range of topics to learn about, and new research is constantly adding to the existing body of knowledge.

I am always excited about this field because I am committed to upholding the safety and well-being of children everywhere. To inspire Concordia candidates to continue bearing the torch to uphold the safety and well-being of children is a true blessing because I will be able to impact more little lives across California by teaching and impacting the current candidates in my class.

How will your program better prepare/equip educators for the current climate we’re in?

We are currently updating our course content to match the new state standards, and there will be mention of the online delivery of school counseling services due to the pandemic and the overall adjustment to a more digital society. The increased stress and mental health challenges experienced by students during the pandemic challenged school counselors everywhere to think of how students may be better served and identified for appropriate support without face-to-face interaction.

We encourage our candidates to think through the legal and psychological implications of such issues to prepare if anything like the pandemic should re-occur, because we instruct candidates about concepts involving crisis and trauma and dealing with the aftermath of life-altering events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

What attracted you to Concordia University Irvine? What sets them apart? 

Concordia University Irvine attracted me for many reasons. I love being in an environment that allows me to integrate biblical truth with educational and psychological principles. The leadership team is also wonderful. They are servant-leaders dedicated to providing students with a quality learning experience, and there is always action behind their words.

The school counseling instructors and fieldwork supervisors are also exceptional professionals who are very knowledgeable about the field. Because they are actively employed as school counselors, they offer a practical perspective to foundational textbook concepts, enabling candidates to understand issues comprehensively. It is truly a joy and a privilege to be working alongside professionals who care about their students and have their best interests at heart.

What is your professional background as an educator?

My professional background includes school counselor, school psychologist, academic advisor/faculty coordinator, internship program coordinator, crisis team member, and bilingual consultant. I earned a B.A. in psychology from Biola University, an M.A. in school counseling, an M.A. in school psychology, and Ph.D. in Education with a school psychology emphasis from Chapman University.

Tell us a little about yourself. Why did you become interested in education?  

I have always loved working with children, and I have loved the field of psychology ever since I was in high school. When I started to study clinical psychology in graduate school, a classmate told me about the field of school counseling. I did some research about this fascinating field, and I liked what I learned. After the following semester, I quit the clinical psychology program and entered a double master’s program offering school counseling and school psychology degrees.

What would you tell prospective students considering your program about yourself? What’s something that students and colleagues should know about you?

Because my family entered the United States as refugees, I know the challenges of surviving in America regarding finances, language, culture, and education. That is why I am especially excited to see first-generation students of all races and cultures enter our program. I am incredibly excited that their degrees can potentially be used to help the next generation of young students within their community. Our minority graduates may be a catalyst to support minority student access to increased educational and occupational opportunities in America.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing their school counseling degree? How can people stand out in this field? 

The advice I would share with candidates is that one must genuinely love people to enjoy this job. Developing good people skills will help one to be an effective school counselor. It is easy to assume that one will just be working with children as a school counselor. However, school counselors must also interact with students’ teachers, administrators, parents, and other agencies. Thus, one will be surrounded by a variety of personalities, both young and old. Learning to work well with each of those personalities will facilitate success in one’s career, but more importantly, facilitate success for each precious child who needs our support.

The post Faculty Spotlight: Dr. MaryAnn Seng, Assistant Professor, Program Coordinator, M.A.Ed. School Counseling appeared first on Concordia University Irvine.

I enjoy teaching many of the classes in the Curriculum & Instruction master’s program and also serve as the Curriculum & Instruction Program Director.

Designing and writing curriculum has always been a part of my journey as an educator. When teaching in the high school classroom at the start of my career, I wrote almost all my own curriculum either from scratch or to supplement the required texts and standards. Now it is my joy to work with a student population of hardworking teachers who are in their respective classrooms doing the same!

One of my roles is to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for several the courses in the C&I program. With this comes the opportunity to revise, update, and make curriculum decisions to keep our courses current and up to date. I relish this opportunity and the ability to combine my love for teaching and writing curriculum.

How will your program better prepare/equip educators for the current climate we are in, specifically with COVID-19 and online/hybrid learning?

One of the ways Curriculum & Instruction students are being equipped and prepared happens naturally as we model what rigorous, organized, and enjoyable online education looks like. Our master’s in Curriculum & Instruction students are hardworking and busy teachers who made the conscious decision to enroll in a fully online program and it is our privilege to provide a cutting-edge experience for them.

Many Curriculum & Instruction students have shared that their experience taking online classes with Concordia University Irvine has absolutely prepared them for a year of virtual teaching because they were already experiencing it. They were able to see a program in action and then put many of the same tenets to work with their own students.

What attracted you to Concordia University Irvine to teach at? What sets them apart?

I wanted to teach at a Christian University where I could speak freely about my faith, pray for my students, and talk about the joys of servant leadership. To open my weekly instructor videos with a Bible passage or a devotion is such a joy and a gift. Concordia University Irvine encourages instructors to create a Christ-centered learning environment, and I strive to do this even in my online classes.

What is your professional background (including degrees) as an educator?

I received my B.A. in English and my M.A.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction from Concordia University Irvine. I’m finishing a PhD in Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition from Grand Canyon University (ABD). I hold a California Clear Teaching Credential. My career in education began at the high school level, and I enjoyed years of teaching English and theology classes.

My posts as ASB advisor and basketball coach provided additional ways to connect with my students. A couple years as the school’s communications director came at the same time I began teaching for Concordia University Irvine in 2002. At that time, I taught in the CUAccelerate program which is a hybrid on-campus and online program. A move to Arizona led to five years of instruction for University of Phoenix where I taught a range of writing courses. While I enjoyed that, I decided to pursue courses in the field of education and started teaching for Grand Canyon University in both their graduate and under-graduate programs.

In 2012, I was thrilled to join the CUI ranks again as a Professor of Education for Curriculum & Instruction as well as Educational Technology. I also currently serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for a number of Curriculum & Instruction courses. My other role as Program Director for the Curriculum & Instruction program provides opportunity to work with other instructors and stay current with all the courses offered. I have a true love for the online classroom and look forward to the start of each new term.

Right now, I’m a doctoral candidate working toward a Ph.D. in Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition. PhD in psychology with an emphasis in cognition. My quantitative research study has me looking at variables affecting adjunct and full-time faculty teaching in the post-secondary online learning environment.

Tell us a little about yourself. Why did you become interested in education?

I have lived in Scottsdale Arizona for nearly 13 years. My husband is a school administrator and we have four wonderful children. I recently served as school board president at our local Lutheran High School and I enjoy speaking at and participating in different school events. I enjoy writing, singing with a local chorale, and making jewelry. It is my heart’s desire that God would use me to point others to Him in both my personal and professional life.

I come by my interest in the field of education very naturally. Both my parents are teachers, my husband is a teacher and administrator, and now our oldest daughter is studying to become a teacher. You could say it is in our genes!

What would you tell prospective students considering your program about yourself? What’s something that students and colleagues should know about you?

The privilege of pouring into classroom teachers cannot really be put into words. The decision to be a teacher requires a keen understanding of service: service to kids, families, colleagues, and a community. The fact that I get to interact, encourage, and motivate teachers helps me feel a part of the large family of educators who want to make a difference.

I always enjoy learning about my CUI students’ interests, both inside and outside the classroom. A little-known interest and hobby of mine is jewelry-making. A friend and I started a jewelry company a couple years ago and we sell at local markets and even a couple stores.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing their Curriculum & Instruction degree? How can people stand out in this field?

One piece of advice I would give prospective students is to think through at least one person who will serve as an accountability partner. It’s important to have a support system. I often ask my students to think this through because there is strength in numbers. And most importantly, I want my students to remember they can cast all their anxieties on God because He cares for each of us (1 Peter 5:7).

Having a graduate degree speaks for itself. The hard work it takes to complete a degree shows dedication to the field. Teachers who enroll in a graduate program also get to talk with their own students about the value of hard work, commitment, and grit.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I have worked in higher education for almost 20 years, for four different programs, and I can absolutely say that Concordia’s graduate programs are top notch and exemplary. It is my joy to be part of such an amazing team of educators and educator supporters. To God be the glory.

The post Faculty Spotlight: Lori Doyle, Professor of Education, Program Director for M.A.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction appeared first on Concordia University Irvine.

I teach in the educational administration program at Concordia University Irvine. I currently serve as the Director of this program. As a young girl I dreamed of being a teacher. I felt it was my calling at a very early age. I continue to be excited about teaching by challenging myself to learn new skills and improve my practice. I have a growth mindset and recognize that there is always room for improvement. I pursue opportunities that require me to stretch my thinking.

How will your program better prepare/equip educators for the current climate we’re in, specifically with COVID-19 and the move to online learning?

The Master of Arts in Educational Administration cohort-based program is designed to prepare future leaders in private or public K-12 education. Concordia University Irvine’s program provides the opportunity for teachers to continue working while completing a graduate program as the content, pacing, and structure of the program were created employing adult learning theories. As students are completing their program, they are gaining hands-on experience in best online educational practices. The teacher is the student. Candidates are provided authentic opportunities to learn practical skills grounded in virtual learning design, which can be immediately implemented in their own classrooms.

What attracted you to Concordia University Irvine to teach at? What sets them apart?

In 2010 I started working in higher education, specifically teacher education. I worked for a nonprofit university as well as a for-profit university. In 2015 I joined Concordia University and I knew I had found my professional home. I am thrilled to be working for a Christian university  where my passion for education and the Lord can be fostered. Concordia University is truly a special place. I am blessed to be a part of a team of educators who are committed to providing a quality education for our students. Faculty and staff at CUI go above and beyond in building relationships and supporting students. The smaller class size allows instructors to serve students individually and get to know them. The benefits of building positive relationships can be seen in the success enjoyed by our graduates.

What is your professional background including degrees as an educator?

I have worked as a supervisor and instructor at several higher education institutions in Southern California, mentoring and supporting new administrators and teachers. In this capacity I evaluated and prepared administrative candidates as well as teacher candidates for teaching and learning in the 21st century. Before entering higher education, I worked as a site-based school administrator, resource teacher, and general education teacher. I have more than 20 years of experience as an educator. The following is a list of the degrees I have earned.

• D, Educational Leadership & Management, Alliant International University, San Diego, CA.
• A., School Administration, Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA.
• A., Curriculum and Instruction, Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA.
• A., Elementary Education, Acadia University, Nova Scotia, Canada
• A., Sociology Acadia University, Nova Scotia, Canada

Tell us a little about yourself. Why did you become interested in education?

I was born and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada, where most of my family still resides. My grandmother was a teacher, my aunt was a teacher, and my mother went to school to become a teacher, although she followed a different career path. Teaching was in my blood. I loved children and was excited to work with them and help them grow and learn.

What would you tell prospective students considering your program about yourself? What’s something your students and colleagues should know about you?

As part of my vocation I am called to be an expert in my field both in theory and in practice. This means knowing one’s newest trending content considerations and delivery platforms, as well as knowing one’s audience. I pride myself on supporting students and helping them successfully complete our program. Securing outstanding instructors and designing a stellar administration program are at the forefront of all of my decisions as the director.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing their educational administration degree? How can people stand out in this field?

For candidates who are interested in changing the status quo, there has never been a better time to enter school administration. As candidates complete our program, they are gaining knowledge and skills that can be beneficial during this unprecedented time of virtual learning. To stand out in the field it is important for educators to have hands-on experiences and accomplishments as they relate to virtual learning. Future administrators should be confident and in control of their online presence.

One other area that cannot be overlooked is the need for school administrators to be competent in building positive school cultures focused on the social and emotional well-being of their students and staff. This is critical in meeting the needs of all learners.

The post Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Tanya Tarbutton, Assistant Professor of Education and Program Director for M.A.Ed. Educational Administration appeared first on Concordia University Irvine.

As Director of Educational Technology, I teach primarily in this program; however, I also have the privilege of teaching courses in Curriculum & Instruction, as well. I love engaging with graduate learners in the online, asynchronous platform. It is truly a pleasure to examine educational issues, topics, and share resources with my students. A lot of what I do relates to sharing educational technology tips, tools, apps, engaging content ideas, and challenging my students to be intentionally innovative with their teaching approaches.

We focus a lot on the 5 Cs of 21st century teaching and learning: critical thinking and problem solving, communication, collaboration, citizenship (global and local), and creativity and innovation. We discuss the importance of digital citizenship and professional networking. We then we take our pedagogy a step further to include the constantly evolving technology standards, known as ISTE standards for Students (ISTE, 2016). I am a big fan of the collaborative, fast-paced, ever-changing world of educational technology.

How will your program better prepare/equip educators for the current climate we’re in (specifically with COVID-19 and the move to online/hybrid learning)?

CUI’s Educational Technology M.A.Ed. program is the ideal place to land as a teacher, TOSA (teacher on special assignment), tech coach, or other educational leader. Our Ed. Tech. program provides students with assignments, projects, and resources applicable to all modes of learning, including fully-distance or hybrid/blended.

For example, our courses demonstrate the significance of the flipped teaching model (using a variety of at-home or in-class contexts), and creating/maintaining an attractive and user-friendly class website. Websites can serve as an important communication tool to connect with school students and families during this isolating time of distance learning. In addition, students learn how to create and screencast videos for online teaching, as well as the value of using Twitter to connect and network with fellow educators locally, nationally, and globally. Lastly, our Ed Tech program introduces students to current trends, as well as highly skilled leaders in the field, ranging from bloggers, TED presenters, tech coaches, and experts in Ed. Tech. integration. 

What attracted you to Concordia University Irvine? What sets them apart?

Having attended Concordia University Irvine (CUI) as a student, I felt it would be such an honor to teach there someday. After serving for 13 years as a teacher at a K-8 school and then two years as a part-time adjunct professor at CUI, I was so pleased to be offered a full-time faculty position. As a lifelong Lutheran, I feel very strongly about my Christian identity and chosen vocation to serve God in all that I do. As such, I am fully dedicated to both the vision and mission of this amazing institution. CUI truly cares for the entire campus community and it shows. We are family. Our university aims to develop “wise, honorable, and cultivated citizens” in all that we say and do. Truly a mission statement I can proudly align myself with.

What is your professional background as an educator?

I had the privilege of attending Concordia University Irvine as both an undergraduate and graduate student. It was here that I actually met my husband! He is a sixth-grade teacher at the same school our younger children attend. In 1999, I earned my bachelor of arts in liberal studies degree with a concentration in K-12 English. Shortly after, I received my California Clear teaching credential and Lutheran Teaching Certificate. In 2006, I earned my master of arts in education in curriculum and instruction alongside my husband. I am currently an Ed.D. candidate with Capella University working on my dissertation. My project focuses on enhancing mental health support and resources in higher education, specifically graduate and doctoral students learning online.

Tell us a little about yourself. Why did you become interested in education?

I can honestly say that I have dreamed of being a teacher for as long as I can remember. One of the first Christmas gifts I asked for as a young child was a chalkboard for my bedroom. My parents have old photos of me dressed up in my mom’s high heels and “teaching” my stuffed animals. To this day, I consider myself a lifelong learner. I love the learning process and thinking “outside the box.” I always enjoyed school as a child. I have always loved to read, both fiction and nonfiction. I love writing imaginary stories and poetry.

Yet, above all, I absolutely loved teaching children over the years…and now adults, too! I loved working in afterschool programs and daycares while in high school and college. I am the proud mom of three children, aged 14, 12, and 9. Supporting them in their learning has always been a passion of mine, and continues to be one of my prized vocations.

What would you tell prospective students considering your program about yourself? What’s something that students and colleagues should know about you?

I consider myself to be a humble, encouraging leader, and I am deeply dedicated to my role as both Director and full-time faculty member in the educational technology program. Yet I also have an insatiable desire to continue learning new things and grow in my skills as a scholar, researcher, professor, and leader. I enjoy engaging in discussions and collaborating on projects. I take pleasure in learning with (and from) my students! Yet, most of all, I absolutely love sharing my faith in God with my students. I love praying for them and being a source of encouragement to them. For this is where my true passion lies.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing their master’s educational technology degree? How can people stand out in this field?

My advice would be to get involved! Be courageous and willing to try new things. Learn from your colleagues at your school or district who may be exploring new tools or apps within their own teaching. Educational technology is all about engaging our students using innovative, multi-sensory, hands-on, collaborative, timely/applicable learning experiences.

In this field, in order to be noticed, educators and district leaders need to network and get their names out there. One way to accomplish this is to attend ed. tech. conferences, such as CUE and ISTE. Once you feel comfortable attending conferences, then I would suggest applying to present at a session. Be confident in what you have learned and be willing to share tips and tools with fellow educators. Be inspiring! Be passionate! Get your name out there and be a blessing to others!

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I would encourage our prospective graduate students to keep growing and learning. To truly embrace the growth mindset of Dr. Carol Dweck. Explore her updated book here. Rather than staying comfortable or stagnant, I would suggest going online and following ed. tech. leaders who may be inspiring to you. My personal list of favorite influencers include Matt Miller, Jennifer Gonzalez, and Alice Keeler. I would also include Bill Selak and Ramsey Musallam on that list…both are adjunct instructors within our very own Ed. Tech. program. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about CUI as a whole, or our Educational Technology M.A.Ed. program. I am always happy to chat!

The post Faculty Spotlight: Sandy Mercier, M.A.Ed., Ed.D. candidate, Assistant Professor of Education, Director of CUI’s Educational Technology M.A.Ed. Program appeared first on Concordia University Irvine.