We offer congratulations to Abbie Brown on his recent promotion to full professor. This adds to his list of awards and achievements, such as being named an East Carolina University Treasured Pirate for his special and unique contributions to the college/unit and to the University, being the Editor-in-chief of the journal, TechTrends and the author of numerous articles and books including, The Essentials of Instructional Design (Allyn & Bacon, publishers).
To further spotlight Professor Brown, we asked him to reply to some questions. We present his answers in an interview format below.
Education
What universities have you attended, what did you study, and what degrees did you earn?
PhD and MS, Instructional Systems Technology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
MA, Languages, Literature, & Social Studies: Teaching of English, Teachers College at Columbia University, New York, NY
BA, Communication and Theater Arts, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
General Background
What drew you to Instructional Technology?
I began my career in Education as an elementary and middle school teacher during the 1980s, when personal computers were gaining in popularity. I discovered I had a talent for programming, and my training in theater arts caused me to look at desktop computers as small theaters that could present content in an entertaining way. Using HyperCard software on the Macintosh computer, I created presentations and tutorials for my middle school English classes and was encouraged to present my work at an Association for Educational Communication and Technology (AECT) conference where I learned more about the field of Instructional Technology and decided to pursue a doctoral degree in the discipline.
What areas of Instructional Technology are of particular interest?
Overall, my research and creative efforts are focused on the improvement of instructional practice through the judicious use of computer-based technologies and instructional design strategies. My research focuses on the use of innovative technologies for teaching and learning, and charting the history and current practices of instructional design/technology. My goal is to continually develop greater expertise in instructional design and media production processes so that I may help others develop skills and expertise to improve teaching and learning for everyone.
What are your activities within the Instructional Technology program?
I teach a number of the required and elective, graduate-level courses. My goal is to help students in our program improve their instructional design and instructional media production skills. I am particularly proud to have helped many Instructional Technology students develop skills that lead to new career opportunities, publish papers in journals, make presentations at state and national conferences, and win national awards. My goal is to increase the quality of instruction for all learners, and I am privileged to work with the talented and dedicated students in our MS, MAED and certificate programs.
More links:
Abbie Brown wins teaching award
UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award: A Google Glass View