Share Paper: Achieving high touch through high tech: A strategic deployment of online technology to improve educational experience and performance of minority students

1. Chris Roddenberry, Wake Technical Community College, United States

Abstract: WTCC began preliminary testing of a new course delivery model designed to improve minority persistence and success in online classes. The “high-tech/high touch model”, developed as a part of a four-year First in the World grant, is a set of technologies and course management strategies designed to facilitate interaction in online classes and foster a sense of psychological presence among students and instructors. This new course delivery model includes the use of three technologies designed to increase interaction and familiarity between the student and the instructor. These tools included texting apps, online meeting rooms, and custom video content to engage ...