Biography

Dr. Beth Oyarzun is a distinguished scholar, clinical associate professor, and renowned learning, design, and technology expert. With a deep understanding of online teaching and learning, she has significantly contributed to advancing educational practices in the digital age. Dr. Oyarzun's expertise and passion for innovation and pedagogical excellence have solidified her reputation as a leading authority in the field. Dr. Oyarzun's educational journey reflects her commitment to excellence in teaching and instructional design. She completed her undergraduate studies in Mathematics Education, where she developed a strong foundation in pedagogy and instructional strategies. Recognizing the transformative potential of technology in education, she pursued a Master's degree in Instructional Technology, focusing on leveraging digital tools for effective teaching and learning. Driven to advance knowledge, Dr. Oyarzun pursued a Ph.D. in Instructional Design and Technology. Her doctoral research delved into the intricacies of online pedagogy, exploring innovative approaches and strategies for fostering engagement, collaboration, and meaningful learning experiences in digital environments. Her dissertation research earned her the Alan Mandell Endowed Dissertation Award, bestowed by the faculty.  As a clinical associate professor, Dr. Beth Oyarzun dedicates her career to advancing the practice of online teaching and learning through modeling effective online teaching practices. Additionally, she directs the fully online M.Ed. and graduate certificates in Learning, Design, and Technology at UNC Charlotte, where she leads the faculty in developing learning design and technology online program curricula.

Dr. Oyarzun has made significant contributions to the field through her research and expertise. Her work focuses on designing learner-centered online environments, leveraging emerging technologies to enhance student engagement, and promoting effective instructional strategies in digital contexts. She has published numerous articles and book chapters, sharing her insights and findings with educators, researchers, and practitioners worldwide. Dr. Oyarzun's impact extends beyond academia. She has been actively involved in providing professional development and training to educators, guiding them in adapting their teaching methodologies to the online realm. Her workshops and seminars have equipped educators with the skills and knowledge to create dynamic and impactful online learning experiences. Furthermore, Dr. Oyarzun has collaborated with educational institutions and organizations to design and implement innovative online programs and courses. Her expertise in learning management systems, multimedia integration, and instructional design principles has developed engaging and effective online learning environments.

In addition to her academic endeavors, Dr. Oyarzun has assumed leadership roles within professional associations and organizations dedicated to online learning and instructional technology. She currently serves as president-elect of the Distance Learning Division (DDL) of the Association of Educational Communications Technologies (AECT) and the treasurer of the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI), contributing to the development of best practices and standards in the field. Through her active involvement, she has fostered collaboration and knowledge sharing among professionals, driving advancements in online teaching and learning. Dr. Oyarzun's dedication to professional engagement extends to her involvement in conference presentations, where she shares her research and insights with peers and colleagues.  Her dedication to excellence, combined with her commitment to empowering educators, has inspired professionals to reimagine their teaching practices and embrace the opportunities afforded by technology.

Leadership and Service

• Treasurer for the Board of Directors of the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI)

  • 2022-

• Subcommittee Chair for the Quality Matters rubric revision committee

  • 2022-2023

• Quality Matters Associate Faculty Fellow for the Center for Teaching and Learning

  • 2020-2023 

• Quality Matters Master Reviewer, Peer Reviewer, Face-to-Face APPQMR Facilitator, and Coach

• Member of the Association of Educational Communication and Technology (AECT)

  • 2023-2024 - President-Elect for the Distance Learning Division

  • 2020-2023 - Vice President of Communications for the Distance Learning Division

  • 2018-2019 - Board Associate for the Design and Development Division 

  • 2018 -2021 - Judge of the Design and Development competition 

  • 2022 -2023 - Mentor for the Design and Development competition

  • 2022 -2023 - Mentor for the Division of Distance Learning 

Research

My research interests are related to my teaching practice. I strive to identify effective strategies for online teaching and learning.

Google Scholar Citation Analysis