RCCD Distance Education

Department Vision Led By Dean Shawna BuShell

The Distance Education Department will serve as a vital support system for faculty and staff, enhancing their ability to engage, inspire, and motivate students in online learning environments. Our focus will be on creating an educational ecosystem that prioritizes student engagement, reflection, and motivation, empowering learners to thrive in their academic journeys.

We will address the challenges that online students face, such as isolation, depression, and disconnection from campus life, by implementing initiatives grounded in research and best practices. Our commitment is to foster a sense of community and belonging among online learners, ensuring they feel connected and supported throughout their educational experiences.

As we plan for 2030, we will prioritize the selection of effective and affordable products and tools that cater to our educational community's needs. We will also actively collaborate with the entire Region 9 network to establish common practices and shared resources, fostering a culture of partnership and continuous improvement across our institutions. Together, we will create a dynamic and inclusive online learning environment that promotes student success and well-being.

DJ Hawkins, Assistant Director, Instructional Design

DJ has taught English within RCCD for 12 years. Between 2016 and 2021, she earned three @ONE certificates in Online Education Standards & Practices, Advanced Online Teaching Principles, and Online Teaching & Design. Additionally, she has completed four @ONE badges, including @ONE's POCR course and @ONE's Equity and Culturally Responsive Online Teaching. She also earned seven badges from Instructure's Canvas in Canvas Studio and Canvas Administration. 

dj.hawkins@rccd.edu

(951) 222-8216 CAADO Office

AD Hawkins has facilitated @ONE courses, created a new @ONE course, and created and hosted workshop presentations for CVC-OEI, @ONE, and TechConnect's Online Teaching Conference (OTC). 

In 2019, she began working as a Professional Expert Instructional Designer for RCCD's Distance Education Department. In January of 2021, she accepted the position of Interim Assistant Director of Instructional Design in RCCD's Distance Education Department. In July of 2021, she accepted the position of Assistant Director of Instructional Design. In addition to supporting individual faculty, AD Hawkins also collaborates with RCCD Committee members & Chairs on College and District DE projects, creates and leads workshops, and facilitates District DE training courses.

Anish Bhatia, Accessible Technology & Media Coordinator

I have taught Computer Information Systems courses at Riverside City College and Moreno Valley College as a ​​member of the associate faculty. My role in making Vision 2030 a success is to empower instructors with impactful tools and principles for universal design and accessibility. The hope is for accessibility to become an integral part of the course creation process, not just an after-the-fact review. Everyone must understand and champion accessibility to ensure equity, inclusion, and student success. This proactive approach ensures that accessibility is seamlessly integrated into courses, laying a strong foundation for our students' success.

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