For some, learning in an online environment is a new experience. At UWS, we strive to make that experience community-driven and free of unnecessary stress. Interactive online discussion forums allow students with a diverse array of educational and professional backgrounds to learn from each other, as well as from assigned readings, lectures and occasional video assignments. Students can log in and view lectures at the times most convenient for them, rather than being required to bend their work and family schedules to meet at a predetermined hour. For busy professionals, the UWS learning environment is the way to go!
The Online Learning Experience at UWS
Interaction and Teaching Style
UWS online classes are conducted in a collaborative and dynamic manner, encouraging a high level of interaction with the material presented. The style of online learning at UWS encourages the development of critical and clinical thinking skills. Instructors moderate conversations in class forums and encourage discussions on current research articles that students gain access to once enrolled in the program. If students need individual time with an instructor, video calls can be scheduled and are encouraged. Community hubs within the online platform are used to get to know the instructors and fellow classmates, as well as learn about important program information and updates. Students can also track their progress and see their grades in real-time whenever they log in to view their online gradebook and receive ample feedback from instructors.
Online Environment
UWS online courses are created with universal design and accessibility principles in mind, making them user-friendly and easy to navigate. The university is always improving the online environment and implementing best practices in order to serve students better. Dedicated instructional designers at the UWS center for teaching and learning regularly work with and train faculty and program directors to improve courses and the student learning experience. All online students have the opportunity to use UWS-approved collaboration tools such as shared documents, Zoom and Microsoft TEAMS, and key exams are often taken via third-party proctoring service.
Flexibility and Accessibility
UWS online programs are global! We have instructors and students living all over the world. Because of the varied time zones, all class lectures (including those that are live-streamed), as well as special events such as expert guest lectures, are always recorded so that students may access them at a time that is most convenient to their schedule. Recorded lectures can be viewed via Canvas Studio, a tool designed specifically for student learning. With Canvas Studio, not only can students watch recordings on their own time, but they can search for key words, speed up or slow down the videos and download mp4 audio files for on-the-go listening!
“This was a much better online learning environment compared to my previous experience at another institution. I found that my cohorts were from all over the country and brought a wealth of knowledge and world experience to the classroom discussions.”
— Marques Stevenson, EdD-SPP alumnus
“Learning in an online environment was not new to me as I have taken quite a few classes online, yet the UWS culture is slightly different. It is more realistic, as if you are in an actual classroom and having a discussion. The discussion posts are less textbook and more conversational. This is key for me and provides an effective online learning environment.”
— Ashley Brayman, EdD-SPP alumna
“My favorite part of the online format at UWS was the ease of scheduling. It made it possible for me to complete an accredited doctoral degree while growing my private practice and not missing out on the lives of my family.”
— Justin Tausig, EdD-SPP alumnus
