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PhD Showcase Articles
A glimpse into the journey of a Ph.D. student in Learning Technologies. This category shares research insights, academic achievements, and lessons learned along the way, offering valuable pers


LTEC 6040: Reflection on My Evolving Understanding of Distance and Online Learning
Over the first half of this course, my understanding of distance and online learning has grown in a way that feels more layered and intentional. Coming into the course, I viewed online learning mainly through an instructional design lens. My focus was on structure, usability, and building effective courses using models like ADDIE and Quality Matters. That perspective still matters, but I now see that distance learning is much more than design. It is about how people think, in

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Mar 303 min read


LTEC 6040 Week 4 Reflection
I will start by saying my timing this module was not great. Between work, writing deadlines, and traveling back and forth to Mississippi while my grandfather was in the CCU critical care unit, my mind shifted fully into family mode. When that happens, everything else quiets down. I missed two weeks of class, so I did not get the chance to really engage with my peers in discussion the way I normally would. That part bothered me because peer dialogue usually helps me process th

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Feb 242 min read


Week 1 Reflection – LTEC 6040: Rethinking Online and Distance Learning
A personal reflection on online and distance learning, design quality, and why effectiveness depends more on intention than technology.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jan 213 min read


Reflection Blog: My Dissertation Topic Inquiry: AI-Powered Learning Technologies and Self-Regulated Learning in Higher Education
Exploring the impact of AI-powered learning tools on self-regulated learning in higher ed & their potential to enhance student autonomy

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Mar 9, 20254 min read


Dealing with Passive-Aggressive Behavior in Organizations: A Leadership Guide
Learn how to identify, address, and manage passive-aggressive behavior in your organization to foster accountability and teamwork.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Feb 16, 20254 min read


Reflection on Week 3 of LTEC 6512 - The Ethical Challenges of Using Technology in Teaching and Research
Technology makes teaching and research easier, but it also raises ethical questions I can’t ignore. Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Feb 5, 20254 min read


Reflection - Embracing the Journey: A Positive Start to Qualitative Research
Starting the semester with qualitative research, I’m excited to explore this engaging, human-centered approach to understanding the world.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jan 10, 20252 min read


Reflections on My First Year and a Half in the UNT Learning Technologies Ph.D. Program
The University of North Texas Department Logo. Image courtesy of the University of North Texas Embarking on a Ph.D. journey is no small...

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Dec 20, 20243 min read


Course Reflection of LTEC 6200: Message Design in Learning Technologies Overall Experience
LTEC 6200 enhanced my skills in multimedia learning and UX design, emphasizing practical application and critical theoretical integration.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jul 21, 20243 min read


Course Reflection from LTEC 6220: Theories of LT Implementation
Balancing coursework and work while learning new frameworks was challenging yet rewarding. Collaboration enriched my understanding immensely

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jul 21, 20243 min read


Reflecting on the Implementation of TAM and UTAUT in My Research Journey during Week 5 of LTEC 6220 (University of North Texas)
The University of North Texas Department Logo. Image courtesy of the University of North Texas As an instructional designer and Ph.D....

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jun 30, 20245 min read


Reflecting on Implementation Theories: Anticipating Success with TAM, UTAUT, and AI Innovations in Education
Reflecting on the preparation for my Implementation Theory Presentation, I feel a sense of anticipation and confidence. The presentation focuses on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003). I believe it will effectively convey the critical aspects of these theories to my classmates. Preparing for this presentation has been challenging and enlightening, providing me with deep

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jun 17, 20244 min read


Reflection on How AI Voice Cloning and Technology Acceptance Models are Transforming Education
The University of North Texas Department Logo. Image courtesy of the University of North Texas Imagine a classroom where every student can understand and engage with the material effortlessly, regardless of their background or learning style. What if educators weren't intimidated by technology but empowered by it? Imagine students thriving in a classroom where next-gen tools merge seamlessly with excellent teaching. Picture a world where humans and machines communicate effort

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jun 9, 20243 min read


Semester Reflections and Growing as a Scholar
As this semester draws to a close, it's time to reflect on my journey through the academic challenges and the strides I've made in...

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
May 8, 20242 min read


Revisiting Power/Knowledge in Educational Theory: A Critical Review of Stephen Ball's Interpretation of Foucault
In educational theory, the interplay of power and knowledge has been a topic of fervent discussion, often guided by the philosophical...

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA
Jan 23, 20245 min read
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