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Kathleen Cercone
Adjunct Online Instructor Anatomy & Physiology/Biology
Professional Background
Kathleen Cercone is a dedicated and accomplished physical therapist turned educator, who has significantly impacted the field of academic technology and instructional design. Since embarking on her teaching career in 1994 at a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, Kathleen has evolved into a tenured professor with a rich background in science education and instructional strategies. Her early career was rooted in patient care, where she utilized her physical therapy expertise to enhance the well-being of her patients. However, her passion for education and technology propelled her to transition from direct patient care to academia, allowing her to share her knowledge and skills with future healthcare professionals.
In 2002, following the closure of her original teaching program, Kathleen seamlessly pivoted to teaching Science courses, igniting her enthusiasm for instructional design. She recognized the potential of academic technology to enhance the learning experience and began to delve into the world of online learning and instructional strategies. Her commitment to continuous education led her to pursue a PhD in Instructional Design for Online Learning at Capella University, where she conducted groundbreaking research on instructional strategies in course management systems. Kathleen’s extensive academic journey, coupled with her practical experience in physical therapy, positions her as a formidable advocate for the integration of technology in education.
Currently, Kathleen serves as an adjunct professor at Purdue University Global, where she continues to inspire students and foster a love for learning. Her dedication to leveraging technology in education extends to her active participation in various technology committees involved in online learning initiatives. As a firm believer that technology can transform education, she is on a mission to educate her peers about academic technology effectiveness while emphasizing that she is not an IT person. Kathleen aims to bridge the gap between technology and pedagogy, transforming how educators utilize digital tools to enhance student learning.
Education and Achievements
Kathleen's educational journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a meaningful impact in her field. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons Physical Therapy, which laid the foundation for her career in healthcare. Pursuing her passion for human performance, she furthered her academic credentials with a Master of Science in Human Performance from Southern Connecticut State University.
Her pursuit of knowledge culminated in earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Instructional Design for Online Learning from Capella University. Her dissertation focused on instructional strategies in a course management system, reflecting her passion for enhancing online learning experiences through effective pedagogical techniques. Kathleen’s academic credentials provide her with a robust platform to advance her career in academic technology and instructional design.
Kathleen's dedication to professional growth has manifested in numerous presentations, including her participation at esteemed conferences such as Blackboard World and Kaplan University Online. Over the past two years, she has shared her insights on Web 2.0 tools, illustrating her commitment to staying at the forefront of educational technology trends. In the upcoming months, Kathleen is scheduled to present at least four times, showcasing her desire to expand her professional network and contribute to the broader educational community.
Future Aspirations
Kathleen Cercone is ambitious and forward-thinking, with aspirations to take on leadership roles in academic technology and instructional design. She envisions moving into a director of academic technology position or an instructional design administrator role, where she can wield her expertise and advocate for innovative educational approaches. Her dream is to establish her own company, allowing her to publish her research, share insights, and help others while receiving recognition for her hard work. Kathleen is committed to ensuring respect remains a fundamental aspect of her professional journey.
As a proponent of self-directed learning, Kathleen is skilled in using various computer programs, effectively teaching others how to utilize them for educational purposes. Her proficiency stems from her ability to self-teach, where she adapts to new technologies by referencing written documentation and dedicating time to understand their applications. Kathleen views technology as a crucial element in creating engaging learning environments that cater to diverse student needs.
Achievements
Kathleen's notable achievements lie in her contributions to academia, distance learning, and the integration of technology in education. With over two decades of experience in teaching and physical therapy, her influence is evident among her students and colleagues alike. Being an active member of several technology committees underscores her commitment to advancing academic technology within the educational landscape. Kathleen’s participation in these committees amplifies her voice as an educator striving for improved online learning experiences.
Her presentations at major conferences highlight Kathleen's recognition as an expert in her field. She is enthusiastic about sharing her knowledge and best practices with educators eager to enhance their own instructional methodologies. Achieving a balance of innovation and pedagogy, Kathleen empowers others through her training sessions, seminars, and workshops.
Kathleen Cercone remains a respected figure in physical therapy and education, embodying a unique blend of healthcare expertise and a passion for learning and technology. Her journey is characterized by unwavering dedication to improving the educational landscape and inspiring the next generation of students and educators. As she continues to push boundaries and explore new avenues in academic technology and instructional design, Kathleen is poised to make lasting contributions to the advancement of education and the utilization of technology for improved learning outcomes.
