"Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award" Recipients Announced

Melissa Cast-Brede, Ph.D., and Jody Boyer were recently awarded the "Outstanding Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award," presented virtually at the 5th Annual Digital Learning Showcase.

About the Award

Each Spring, a UNO faculty member is recognized with the award. Sponsored by ITS, the award honors faculty who have implemented outstanding innovative teaching approaches shown to increase student learning, engagement and success. The award recognizes faculty members who have contributed significant, creative teaching innovations that promote effective and deeper learning.

Innovative teaching is defined broadly and may include:

• the use of new instructional technologies, the use of traditional technologies in creative ways
• the adoption of teaching strategies that scale through the use of technology
• the adoption of tools or integrations that engage students in the learning process

The Nominations

Cast-Brede

Nominators gushed about Cast-Brede and her ability to serve them in the future.

“Dr. Cast(-Brede) utilizes technology to enhance learning, communication, and connection for her students,” they said. “In each class she embeds a variety of tools for students to use and explore as they work through projects. Her creative utilization of technology enhances relationship development and content delivery for students.”

Another mentioned her video feedback.

"The video feedback was my favorite part!” they said. “I enjoyed the detail and the personal connection it offered."

I really appreciated the video feedback on our assignments, and that there are office hours available the day before and after assignments are due."

Boyer

Boyer, a part-time instructor in the unit of Art/Art History since 2004, uses her expertise in the use of instructional technology,” her nominators said.

“She has provided invaluable assistance to others throughout the pandemic,” the nominato wrote. “Although Jody's appointment is part time within the unit (she) has been a true advocate for high-quality learning throughout the pandemic.

Past Award Recipients

Cast-Brede and Boyer join Erica Rose and Jeff Bredthauer as recipients:

• 2019 recipient – Erica Rose (CEHHS)
• 2020 recipient – Jeff Bredthauer, Ph.D. (CBA)
• 2021 recipients – Melissa Cast-Brede, Ph.D. (CEHHS) and Jody Boyer (CFAM)

Read the full nominations and learn more about the Digital Learning Showcase