"The LTEC program uniquely combines rigorous research methodologies with practical application, allowing me to investigate questions that directly impact educational practice."

Hometown

Aiea, Hawaii

Department

Learning Design and Technology

Related Degrees

• PhD, Learning Design & Technology

Why did you choose to pursue to pursue the PhD, Learning Design & Technology program?

I chose to pursue my PhD in Learning and Design Technology (LTEC) because I recognized the critical need for research-driven approaches to educational innovation, particularly in online and hybrid learning environments. After earning my master’s degrees and working extensively in instructional design, I observed a significant gap between emerging educational technologies and their effective implementation in real learning contexts. My international teaching experience in Japan highlighted how cultural and linguistic diversity affects learning outcomes.

The LTEC program uniquely combines rigorous research methodologies with practical application, allowing me to investigate questions that directly impact educational practice. My current research on online social presence and critical digital literacy emerged from observing how students struggle to develop meaningful connections and authentic identities in digital learning spaces—a challenge that became particularly acute during the shift to remote learning.

Why did you want to be a Social Media Ambassador for your program?

I want to serve as a Social Media Ambassador for the LTEC program because I believe in the transformative potential of educational technology research and want to help others understand how this field addresses real-world learning challenges.

My diverse background from international teaching to instructional design to doctoral research gives me a unique perspective on how LTEC principles apply across different educational contexts. I can speak authentically about the program’s relevance to current practitioners who might be considering advanced study, as well as to prospective students from various professional backgrounds.

Through my conference presentations and research on online social presence, I’ve seen firsthand how LTEC research contributes to solving pressing educational problems. I want to use social media platforms to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, helping audiences understand how design-based research methodology creates tangible improvements in learning experiences.