Janie Leary (2021-2022)
Valerie Morphew (2022-2023)
Raymond Alvarez (2023-2024)
Please direct any questions about the awards to the Faculty Development Committee Chair Brian Blackwood bblackwood@fairmontstate.edu
Award for Excellence in Online Teaching
Purpose
This award is new this year and it is intended to honor faculty who show excellence in design, application, student engagement, student success, and enhanced commitment to virtual course facilitation.
Eligibility
Full-time faculty with at least three years of service to Fairmont State University having a teaching load of 50% or more online are eligible for this award.
Award
$500.00
Nomination Process
This award requires nomination by a peer or student who is currently enrolled at Fairmont State University. They should complete and submit the electronic nomination form explaining why the faculty member deserves consideration for the award. No anonymous nominations will be accepted; however the name of the nominator will not be disclosed without their consent. The committee will ask faculty members who have been named if they will accept the nomination.
Nomination Deadline
November 1, 2024
Selection Criteria
The committee hopes to obtain from each applicant, specific information about each their outstanding achievements in some or all of the following criteria:
* Best practices used in design of the course
* Simple and clear layout employed so students can find materials and resources easily
* Course organized in a logical manner--perhaps modules grouped by topic, week, or similar content, e.g., "Readings"
* Library resources and other digital material integrated
* Explicit expectations stated as to how you will communicate
* Virtual office hours listed
* Varied types of activities used
* Synchronous and asynchronous activities used
* Use of discussion posts that invite responses, questions, and reflections
* Proof of dedication and commitment to online course facilitation including timely feedback
Application Process
Those who have been nominated for the award and decide to move forward (to be considered for the award) are required to submit the following materials and agree to let committee members enter your course. The precise details for online submission (fdc@fairmontstate.edu) will be provided to nominees with ample time prior to the application deadline.
1. Application Letter (1-2 pages):
The most useful application letter is an essay and does more than merely list your accomplishments or reiterate your letters of support. The letter should make a clear and persuasive case for why the Faculty Development committee should give you this award. It should identify your strengths and talents in the areas listed under the Selection Criteria above.
2. Two Letters of Support
• One peer letter
• One Dean or Department chair letter
During the spring semester, members of the Faculty Development Committee will meet with each nominee to review at least one online course the nominee facilitates.
Application Deadline
February 7, 2025