Watts Receives Professor for Affordable Learning Award
CENTRAL, S.C. – Dr. Tyler Watts is the first Southern Wesleyan University faculty member to be named a Professor for Affordable Learning (PAL) by PASCAL. The PAL award recognizes faculty who remove barriers to student success in the classroom by using no-cost course materials. Thanks to the efforts of professors like Dr. Watts, students are more likely to graduate on their desired schedules with less debt.
The mission of PASCAL's South Carolina Affordable Learning (SCALE) initiative is to reduce the overall cost of higher education for students. Dr. Sandra McLendon, dean of the School of Education at SWU says, “During this time of accelerating higher education costs, the use of free and affordable textbooks is another avenue for cutting costs and removing barriers for our students. The Masters in e-Learning and Instructional Design costs for textbooks is zero largely due to Dr. Watts’ dedicated efforts to provide affordable learning for our Instructional Design students. Dr. Watts epitomizes the role of ‘Professor for Affordable Learning.’ ”
Dr. Watts serves as the program coordinator for the M.Ed. in Instructional Design and eLearning and SWU’s micro credential in instructional design. He has worked in the areas of online learning, educational technology, and faculty development for over 10 years. Dr. Watts is passionate about promoting authentic learning experiences in online and blended environments. In addition to his work in instructional design, Dr. Watts also is involved in supporting international virtual exchange initiatives, promoting greater understanding and learning across cultures.
In reaction to receiving this award Dr. Watts says, “I’m honored to be recognized with this award and to continue to advocate for affordable learning solutions for our students. We have made great strides to ensure the Masters of Education in Instructional Design and eLearning is an affordable program with no-cost for course materials while allowing us to feature the latest research in the field and promote open educational practices.”
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to swu.edu.
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