He had worked with the staff of the SMC before, who specialize in teaching students to use the audio-visual equipment and software packages that University Libraries provides, in crafting experiential learning opportunities for his graduate accounting courses. “High quality experiential learning, in this case video production, often challenges students to leave their normal contexts and apply themselves in new ways. I’m thankful to have the SMC as a partner in the design and execution of these learning experiences,” Quoc said.
While Covid-19 changed the landscape of his learning experiences in the fall of 2020, the pandemic also provided an opportunity to improve existing experiential learning opportunities. “This fall, Manderson MBA Case Team students were asked to submit video presentations for the Florida Southern MBA Case Competition, as the in-person competition was cancelled,” Quoc said. “I teach in a business school where capturing, editing and creating content is not a core part of our curriculum, but my students had a bold presentation idea. Initially, they were going to get on a Zoom call, and record the presentation. However, we reached out to the Sanford Media Center staff, who provided equipment (video cameras, boom mics, audio recorders, etc.) and tips on how to bring their presentation to life. In the end, our two teams finished 1st and 2nd in a competition that included sixteen teams!”
Asked if he would recommend the Sanford Media Center to his colleagues across campus, Quoc said, “I have worked with SMC staff to design and execute several learning experiences to date. In addition to providing expert production and equipment support, SMC staff were also available to join my classes and provide an overview on topics relevant to my objectives and related assignments. Regardless of your discipline or expertise, content creation is a unique and valuable way to encourage self-reflection in your learning experiences. I know the SMC will continue to be a valuable partner going forward.”
Donor funded entities like the Sanford Media Center are impactful in supporting student and faculty success. When asked about the value of giving to University Libraries from a faculty perspective, Quoc offered unequivocal support. “Supporting University Libraries has the potential to impact every student on campus. While they provide traditional scholarly resources, they have continued to evolve, providing invaluable state of the art services and equipment that support my experiential learning opportunities at UA.”
