Surgical Technology Educators Program - S.T.E.P.
Foundations of Digital Learning & Innovation
This section represents the beginning of my transformation from practitioner to innovation leader. Through courses such as Concepts of Educational Technology, Disruptive Innovation in Technology, and Resources for Digital Environments, I began to examine how meaningful change occurs in education, not by chance, but through intentional design, courageous leadership, and a growth mindset.
These courses challenged me to question traditional systems and consider how innovation can improve learning environments rather than simply digitize outdated practices. I learned that technology is not the driver of change; learning is. Digital tools must serve clearly defined outcomes, support engagement, and create access, not distraction. What began as a focus on blended learning evolved into something deeper.
As I reflected on my own transition from clinical expert to program director, I recognized that the most urgent need was not improved instructional delivery; it was structured preparation for educators. This realization ultimately led to the development of the Surgical Technology Educators Program (STEP). This page represents the shift in my thinking, from improving courses to transforming systems. It reflects my understanding that sustainable innovation requires vision, strategy, and the willingness to pivot when a clearer solution emerges.
Disruptive Innovation in Technology
This course challenged me to examine how disruption can reshape learning environments and improve student engagement through technology. While my initial innovation plan focused on blended learning for healthcare education, deeper reflection revealed a more pressing need: preparing surgical technology educators for success in the classroom.
This realization ultimately led to the development of the Surgical Technology Educators Program (STEP), shifting my focus from instructional delivery to educator preparation and systemic change. → Explore the Innovation Pivot
Resources for Digital Environments
This course reinforced a critical principle in digital learning: technology should support learning, not drive it. By focusing first on learning outcomes, I explored how digital tools can be intentionally selected to enhance instruction, support collaboration, and create more engaging, student-centered learning environments.
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The strategies and resources examined in this course directly support the development of the Surgical Technology Educators Program (STEP), where technology is used to model effective teaching practices and strengthen educator preparation.