Published in EdgeCon Proceedings

by Dr. MaryKay McGuire

I’m excited to share that my recent work, From Research to Practice: Five Faculty-Informed Strategies to Improve Online Course Development, has been officially published in the inaugural EdgeCon Proceedings. This publication reflects a full-circle moment in my doctoral and professional journey, bringing research directly into the hands of educators, instructional designers, and leaders who can apply it immediately in their teaching and course development.

My study focused on translating real faculty experiences and needs into actionable, evidence-based strategies to enhance online learning environments. Through interviews, thematic analysis, and alignment with best practices in learning design, this project highlights where faculty need the most support and how institutions can address those gaps in real, meaningful ways.

What the paper explores:

• The top challenges faculty face when designing and teaching online

• Practical supports that truly move the needle

• Five research-based, faculty-informed strategies that improve online course development

• An actionable path toward more sustainable, human-centered faculty development practices

Being included in the EdgeCon Proceedings is both an honor and a validation of the broader mission behind Courage to Learn: empowering educators through clarity, compassion, and practical tools that actually work.

As Courage to Learn grows, I’m committed to continuing to bridge the gap between research and practice, equipping educators and institutions with frameworks, strategies, and professional development that support high-quality teaching in every modality.

Stay tuned for more updates as I turn this research into workshops, resources, and offerings through Courage to Learn.