The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) are excited to highlight a publication demonstrating the profound impact  innovative technology has on teacher instruction throughout Alaska. This research, funded by Project Literacy Equity for Alaskan Families (LEAF), a grant received from the Office of English Language Acquisition through the U.S. Department of Education, is led by Lisa Richardson, Ph.D., coordinator of the Reading Specialist Program at UAS and Cathy Coulter, Ph.D., coordinator of the Language and Literacy Program at UAA. This work showcases the successful collaboration between these two institutions, which includes ongoing research on teacher practice in Alaska.

This groundbreaking research centers around using the Edthena video platform within the Reading Specialist M.Ed. program at UAS and the Language and Literacy graduate certificate program at UAA. By facilitating remote, video-based collaboration among educators across Alaska’s vast and varied landscapes, the technology bridges the gap between urban and rural educational settings and enhances teaching practices and student learning experiences. 

"Our programs allow us to collaborate with extraordinary teachers from across our state to understand their communities and support them to continue to explore effective ways to build on students' unique identities and strengths," said Dr. Coulter.

The study details how video analysis supports continuous professional growth, enabling educators to critically reflect on their teaching practices, engage in constructive peer feedback and refine their strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students. This approach not only elevates teaching quality but also empowers educators, emphasizing their role in their own professional development. 

"The passion our teachers have for their students and their communities is evidenced through their dedication to their own scholarship, their willingness to share and refine their classroom practice, and their support for one another," Dr. Richardson said.

In affirming the collaborative efforts, Carlee Simon, Ph.D. and interim dean at UAS, remarked, “The synergy between UAA and UAS in spearheading such transformative educational research is pivotal for realizing the vast potential within Alaska’s educational landscape. By integrating innovative technologies like the Edthena video platform into our programs, we are not only enhancing instructional practices but also fostering a community of educators who are resilient, reflective and ready to advance educational equity across diverse Alaskan communities. Our ongoing partnership is a testament to our shared dedication to nurturing capable educators who are equipped to uplift and inspire students throughout the state.”

“This collaborative research between UAA and UAS showcases the profound impact of innovative technology on teacher instruction in Alaska,” said Tonia Dousay, Ph.D. and dean of UAA’s School of Education. “Through our pioneering efforts, we are bridging gaps between urban and rural education, enhancing teaching practices and empowering educators to meet the diverse needs of their students. This work exemplifies our commitment to advancing educational excellence and equity throughout the state.”

UAA and UAS are committed to continuing this collaboration, advancing educational research and practice throughout the state and beyond.