Amy Thornton, Ph.D.

Experience

• 

  The University of Southern Mississippi University Libraries

  Mar 2005 - Nov 2006

  Electronic Resources Specialist

  → Administers library electronic resource tools and databases.→ Develop, test, and implement specialized computer applications to improve library services.→ Interpret and communicate library policies and procedures, assist with reference questions and provide general assistance to faculty, staff, students, and the general public when on duty at the Information Services desk. → Maintain programming and content of Library Web site.→ Manage the library’s virtual technical help desk by answering and resolving questions involving access to library resources, authentication and technical use of the library’s electronic resources.→ Provide assistance to library employees in the development and maintenance of unit Web sites and online applications. Show less

• 

  The University of Southern Mississippi Learning Enhancement Center

  Nov 2006 - Aug 2009

  Instructional Technologist

  → Work closely with faculty to develop engaging instructional programs for online delivery.→ Works closely with Senior Online Coordinator to ensure quality delivery and maintenance of Learning Management System.→ Determines feasibility of developing distance learning programs by identifying distance learning materials, strategies, and methods. → Coordinates various production activities needed to implement learning resources using available distance learning technologies and media.→ Prepares and produces materials for both synchronous and asynchronous modes of delivery. → Develops effective learner support systems for faculty, staff and students.→ Develops and delivers workshops to university community.→ Assists in continuous evaluation of distance learning programs. Show less

• 

  The University of Southern Mississippi

  Aug 2009 - Jun 2013

  Project Manager

  Appointed by the Director to play a central role in management of multimillion-dollar projects. Oversee the promotion and quality of online programs through high-performance consultants across five work streams, including faculty development, course development, financial model, change management, and marketing. → Organized, scheduled, and executed projects to implement Blackboard upgrades, clickers, podcasting, and Wimba products through teams.→ Collaborated with faculty to design instruction for both online and on-site coursework.→ Collaborated with faculty to design instruction for both online and on-site coursework.→ Assessed needs and met faculty objectives in development of engaging instructional programs for online delivery. → Determined feasibility in development of distance learning programs by identifying distance learning materials, strategies, and methods. → Developed policies and procedures for Eagle Learning Online along with the eLearning Steering Committee, chaired by the Provost.→ Lead evaluation process to ensure online programs meet standards outlined by internal and external accrediting bodies, including compliance with ADA standards.→ Participated in the evaluation of student services to ensure online student access.→ Managed business service processes and personnel for Eagle Learning Online including: marketing, recruitment, events, and proctoring services.→ Maintained partnerships and contracts with external vendors needed to support online learning services. Show less

• 

  Columbus State University

  Aug 2013 - Jun 2018

  Director, Center of Online Learning

  Serves as distance learning resource and advocate. Encourages appropriate and effective us of distance learning technologies and online course design and identifies services necessary to support distance learning activities.→ Coordinates university distance learning services.→ Promotes use of distance learning technologies in the delivery of instruction and effective online course design.→ Coordinates training and development opportunities related to distance learning.→ Coordinates provisions of information and access to resources for faculty and students seeking to engage in distance learning.→ Leads Quality Matters implementation and use for quality assessment of online courses.→ Develops policies, procedures, and practices with guidance of distance learning committee.→ Provide support and training for faculty and students using distance learning technologies.→ Oversee administration of learning management system and other distance learning tools. Show less

• 

  Self-Employed

  Jun 2018 - Jun 2022

  Independent Consultant

  • QM Course Reviewer, Emeritus• QM Project Director and Instructional Designer, Allen and St. Luke's Colleges • Instructional Designer, Rasmussen University • Part-time Faculty, Rogers State University• Part-time Faculty, Columbus State University

• 

  Western Governors University

  May 2022 - now

  • Manager, Design & Development

    Feb 2023 - now

  • Lead Program Development Owner

    May 2022 - Sept 2023