Reflection 4/4

Hard Work in 2025: Why Purpose, Integrity, and Growth Must Lead the Way

In 2025, the meaning of hard work has changed in practice, but not in principle. Young men must embrace process over quick success.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

May 12, 20255 min read

Pixar-style 3D animated portrait of an African American family of five posing outdoors in semi-formal attire. The father stands on the far left wearing glasses, a navy blazer, and khaki pants, smiling warmly. Next to him is the mother, dressed in a beige skirt and navy blazer with a pearl necklace. In front stands their young daughter in a patterned brown dress, smiling brightly. Beside her, two teenage sons wear blazers—one in a full dark suit and the other in a navy jacket with beige pants—both smiling. Behind them are pine trees, a wooden fence, and dry winter grass.

When It’s Not Just About Them: Ego, Protection, and the Conversations That Shape Our Children

Parents often react from fear or ego. What if we led with mentorship instead?

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

May 10, 20253 min read

A Hispanic man sits in a worn blue armchair with his elbows on his knees, hands clasped together near his face, and head bowed in defeat. His expression is one of deep distress or contemplation. In the blurred background, several people appear to be arguing or moving frantically, representing chaos and tension around him. The lighting is soft, highlighting the emotional contrast between the man’s stillness and the surrounding disorder.

The Power in the Pit: Finding Purpose Through Adversity

Adversity is not the end—it's the beginning of transformation. Rise from your pit with purpose, resilience, and God’s guidance.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

May 6, 20253 min read

Let the Past Be the Past: Why Looking Back Can Stunt Your Progress

Reflecting on the past is natural, but living in it? That’s a trap. True growth demands letting go and focusing forward

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

May 6, 20253 min read

What’s Your S.I.G.N.? – When Shame, Insult, Guilt, and the Need to Be Right Silence Connection

S.I.G.N. behaviors may be keeping you from true connection. Learn how shame, insults, guilt, and ego quietly lead to isolation.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

May 6, 20254 min read

The Hidden Ink of Machines: What I Learned About AI, Watermarking, and Academic Integrity

I used AI to assist—not write—my assignment. What I learned about watermarking changed how I teach, learn, and lead with tech.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Apr 29, 20255 min read

First-Time Reflections: SITE 2025, AI in Education, and Stepping into the Conversation

From my first talk to a SIG nomination, SITE 2025 opened doors to community, conversation, and a future shaped by AI in education.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Mar 24, 20253 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

A Reflection on My Uncle, Darrell O’Neal: A Mentor, A Guide, A Legacy

My uncle, Darrell, shaped my life w/ wisdom, discipline, & strength, guiding me from struggle to military retirement as a Master Sergeant

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Feb 15, 20255 min read

The Decline of Reading: Implications for Critical Thinking and Susceptibility to Misinformation

As deep reading declines, so does critical thinking, leaving societies vulnerable to misinformation and manipulation. Is literacy at risk?

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Feb 13, 20255 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 on Week 2 of LTEC 6512: Understanding Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research

This week in LTEC 6512, I grappled with the purpose of field notes while exploring qualitative vs. quantitative research, criticality, & rig

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Feb 3, 20253 min read

Reflection: Be the Change You Want to See: A Roadmap to Personal and Collective Growth

Change begins with you. Learn how embracing personal transformation can spark a ripple effect that inspires change in your community and bey

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Jan 16, 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

Reflection: The Art of Listening: How Openness Can Lead to Growth

L istening to History : Highlighting the importance of understanding the past through attentive listening. We often think of...

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Jan 9, 20253 min read

A Tribute to Mrs. Mary Lee Merriweather Taylor: My Great-Grandmother

Young Mary Merriweather Reflecting on a Legacy of Service, Education, and Faith My great-grandmother, Mrs. Mary Lee Merriweather Taylor,...

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Jan 2, 20254 min read

Listening, Learning, and Growing: A Personal Reflection on Intergenerational Conversations

Discover the power of intergenerational conversations and how listening can lead to growth, understanding, and purpose-driven actions.

Marcus D. Taylor, MBA

Jan 2, 20253 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