Digitally Supported Pathways Transitioning Students into Technical Education Fields

Presenters: Ginny Hall and Caroline Christ
In this session, a STEM Pathway Development Plan focusing on state-of-the-art digital learning, P-20 partnerships, and pathways through stackable credentials will be introduced. This model was developed by the Center for Aviation and Automotive Technology Education using Virtual E-Schools (CA2VES) and represents a partnership among the Clemson University Center for Workforce Development, technical colleges, school districts, and local industry. Participants will engage in reflective activities, experience digital learning tools, and learn about open learning resources available to support STEM pathway initiatives.


ABOUT THE PRESENTERS:
Ginny Hall, Director of Digital Learning, Clemson University Center for Workforce Development
Ginny Hall joined the Clemson University Center for Workforce Development (CUCWD) as the program manager for the Department of Labor (DOL) Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) grant program. She continues to work with all 16 technical colleges in South Carolina to develop online technology, mathematics, and science curricula through the DOL TAACCCT program. Hall also directs digital learning projects within the CUCWD and works to develop curricula that serve as an accessible and effective pathway to employment for today’s workforce. Prior to joining the CUCWD, Hall spent three years as a K–12 educator and six years as a technical college instructor. Hall holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Education, a master’s degree in Education, and a doctorate in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction.

Caroline Christ, Digital Learning Experience Designer, Clemson University Center for Workforce Development
Caroline Christ is a digital learning experience designer for the Clemson University Center for Workforce Development (CUCWD). CUCWD strives to advance STEM education in the state of South Carolina to enhance employment opportunities for the state’s workforce by partnering with K–20 educators and industry from across the state. As part of this initiative, the Center for Aviation and Automotive Technology Education using Virtual E-Schools (CA2VES)—funded by the NSF’s Advanced Technological Education program—develops educational materials for individuals who are interested in technical careers in manufacturing. Christ has utilized her engineering background to create this curriculum, which focuses on technical and manufacturing skills such as metrology, industrial safety, manufacturing quality, and basic electricity. These materials are created for the digital learning platform and incorporate instructional videos, virtual reality simulations, electronic textbooks, and online labs. Christ develops, designs, and reviews the educational material for its technical content and instructional design in the hope that this digital learning initiative will help to foster and improve STEM education. Christ received her MS in Human Factors Engineering and BS in Industrial Engineering from Clemson University.