UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State World Campus faculty members are helping online students connect academic study with practical application through engaging, career-focused learning experiences. This month, World Campus is highlighting two online faculty members from the College of the Liberal Arts — Christopher Lawrence and Brian Redmond, who each play key roles in shaping the online learning experience to support student success.
In addition to their effort put into the teaching courses, both faculty members prioritize building connections with their students. Through consistent communication, check-ins and feedback, they work to ensure that their number one goal — that students feel supported — is met.
This emphasis on an engaging and interactive environment helps create a sense of community among learners who may be balancing coursework with careers, families and other responsibilities.
Lawrence, who teaches in the Bachelor of Arts in History Program, said he emphasizes critical thinking and historical perspective as tools students can apply across professions. His courses aim to teach students to analyze the past to better understand modern global issues, strengthening research, writing analytical skills that translate to fields such as education public service and business.
By fostering discussion and questions in an online learning environment, Lawrence said, he works to create an environment where students feel connected to both the material and one another.
Learn more about Lawrence on the Penn State World Campus website.
Redmond, a faculty member in the Bachelor’s in Labor and Human Resources (LHR), Organizational Leadership (OLEAD), and Human Resources and Employment Relations (HRER) programs, brings his thorough industry experience into his teaching. He said his approach centers on applying theory to workplace realities, helping students build leadership, communication and problem-solving skills essential for today’s workplaces.
Through real-world examples and interactive learning, Redmond said he prepares students to navigate organizational challenges and drive positive workplace culture.
Learn more about Redmond on the Penn State World Campus website.
Their efforts highlight how online faculty adapt traditional teaching approaches to meet the needs of online learners while maintaining the University’s academic standards. By designing courses that interactive, flexible and grounded in real-world application, Lawrence and Redmond help students translate classroom knowledge into meaningful and professional development.
Penn State World Campus has been offering a flexible, high-quality, Penn State education online for more than 25 years. Find out more about how online learning works on the World Campus website.