Professional Development for Faculty in Virtual/Online Environments: A Case Study

Many professional development opportunities for faculty are offered in a traditional, face-to-face learning environment. However, similarly as virtual/online learning environments may be an answer to the various student’s needs, it may also apply to fulfilling teaching and learning needs of the faculty. This paper provides insights regarding three different types of professional development for faculty in a virtual/online environment implemented at a two-year, small college in the Midwest of the United States. Because we look for how to engage and deepen student learning in online, blended, and/or distance education and training environments, our professional development should mimic and model best practices of developing and learning in these unique environments (Anderson, Krathwohl, & Bloom, 2001). Although, traditional face-to-face professional development for faculty may still be in use, this paper provides guidelines and suggestions considering developing virtual/online professional development for faculty, in order to offer them additional learning opportunities.