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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