Teaching

Academic History

Ph. D., Iowa State University, 2006

M. S., Iowa State University, 1998

B. A., National Central University, 1982

Teaching and Expertise

Dr. Chang has taught in the higher education since 1995. She has taught many computer courses in different colleges for over 21 years. She is also a Blackboard Senior Certified Trainer.

Dr. Chang is an Associate Teaching Professor and the Director of Distance Education for the Department of Computer Science at Iowa State University. Dr. Chang spearheads the development of distance education curriculum for the department of Computer Science and has designed and developed courses for the ISU Computing Applications Online Certificate Program. She also serves as an evaluator in the 'ISU Vet Med Office of Curricular Assessment and Teaching Support Center'.

Dr. Chang has developed and taught many computer science online courses since 2003 at ISU. She has taught more than 23,000 students, earned over 91,000 credit hours and generated significant revenue for the department, college and university. One of the large courses she designed and taught by herself since 2003 which serves several hundred students every semester with 94% high student satisfaction rate. The course earned approximately $2.3 million in student tuition and more than 4,000 credit hours each semester at its peak for the department and college. Besides that, the online courses that she has taught before have earned more than $1 million. They generated additional revenue for the department and college because students from off-campus sections paid additional delivery fees for the online courses over the past several years before the pandemic. In addition, it has been offered to the national and international audiences each semester. The course has generated a lot of revenue for the department, college and university in the past several years.

Dr. Chang serves as the Director of Distance Education and has designed and developed the following online courses for the department of Computer Science: 1) Computer Literacy, 2) Computer Literacy and Applications, 3) Introduction to Computers (by using Steve Kautz’s teaching notes as reference), 4) Web Programming, 5) Visual Basic Program I, 6) Advanced Visual Basic Programming, 7) Spreadsheets and Databases. 8) COBOL Programming, 9) COMS 490: Independent Study (Research), and 10) COMS 500: Computer Science Graduate TA Training course within Canvas. She also serves as a mentor and provides services to assist other professors in designing online courses, such as: 1) Java Programming, 2) Advanced Java Programming, 3) Linux Operating System Essentials online courses in the department of Computer Science. The majority of these courses that she designed and mentored have belonged to ISU Computing Applications Online Certificate Program. More online courses will be developed in the near future. She provides services to assists professors in designing online courses at ISU as well.

In summary, Dr. Chang has designed and developed over 10 online courses for the department and the ISU Computing Applications Certificate Program. These courses integrated best practices such as learner-centered pedagogy and the Quality Matters Rubric, fostering a constructivist learning environment aligned with the Seven Principles for Good Practice. Her courses excelled in course design, interaction and collaboration, assessment, and learner support. Her approach empowered students to actively engage with the material, leading to deep understanding and effective application of their knowledge. These courses have promoted students’ learning and helped them achieve the highest level of Bloom's Taxonomy. Dr. Chang has shown great dedication to students' learning, striving to provide the best teaching and services. The knowledge and practical skills students have gained from these advanced computer courses have been highly beneficial for their careers. Students have consistently performed well and greatly enjoyed Dr. Chang's courses each semester. She has maintained an exceptionally high satisfaction rate each semester for over 21 years. Dr. Chang's dedication to student success and her expertise are invaluable assets to the department of Computer Science and Iowa State University.

COMS 500: Computer Science Graduate TA Training Course:

Graduate TA Training Program Coordinator (2022-present): Demonstrate leadership by leading and coordinating the program, providing substantial and meaningful service to the department.

In 2022, Dr. Chang initiated and led the Computer Science Graduate TA Training Program, designing and developing the new Canvas course 'COMS 500: Computer Science Graduate TA Training,' and independently conducting the graduate TA training sessions.
The training aimed to equip graduate TAs with the necessary skills and knowledge for the department.
The course focused on the following topics such as:
- ‘TA expectations and responsibilities, various roles and corresponding expectations’, ‘class
  management’, ‘academic misconduct issues (plagiarism, etc.)’, ‘teaching and learning strategies,’ and ‘designing Canvas courses, including requesting new Canvas course shells, creating modules, mastering quizzes, and using Piazza and other tools.’
- Graduate TAs were also required to submit hands-on assignments, complete the FERPA and TITLE IX surveys, and pass a comprehensive exam.
- Dr. Chang successfully trained 102 graduate TAs at the start of fall 2022.
In 2023, in addition to the topics mentioned above, Dr. Chang introduced new topics and spearheaded sessions with several guest speakers, covering the following new topics:
- ‘role of a TA in recitations’, ‘conducting office hours’, ‘how do we grade’, ‘working with students’,
  and ‘overview of the IT infrastructure in the Department of Computer Science.’
- Dr. Chang trained 42 new graduate TAs in the beginning of fall 2023.
In summer 2024, Dr. Chang renovated the curriculum again and spearheaded the Graduate TA Training workshops.
In addition to the previously mentioned topics, Dr. Chang enhanced this year's training by:
- Integrating social components, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dr. Chang invited both returning graduate TAs and faculty members to join new graduate TAs for dinner, creating an environment where experienced TAs could share insights and faculty members could offer encouragement. Dr. Chang also arranged group photos.
- Additionally, Dr. Pavan Aduri, the interim chair, and Dr. Samik Basu, the director of graduate student education, were invited to facilitate a ‘Town Hall Meeting. This interactive session, featuring a question-and-answer format, was invaluable for new TAs seeking guidance and clarity, as well as for experienced TAs who sought more detailed information about their ongoing research, teaching responsibilities, and professional development opportunities. The meeting provided a platform for exploring important topics and fostering a deeper understanding of departmental resources and expectations. These sessions were highly beneficial for all faculty members and essential to the department.
- This dedication to developing effective TAs significantly improved the department's teaching environment. Dr. Chang trained 20 new graduate TAs at the beginning of fall 2024.
  In summary, Dr. Chang spearheaded the graduate TA training program, designing and teaching the 'COMS 500: Computer Science Graduate TA Training' course, which was offered as in-person training sessions in August 2022, 2023, and 2024. Graduate TAs were also required to submit hands-on assignments, complete the FERPA and TITLE IX surveys, and pass a comprehensive exam. Dr. Chang trained 164 graduate TAs in total. These training sessions were immensely beneficial for all faculty members and crucial to the department.
- In spring 2024, seven graduate TAs from our department, whom Dr. Chang trained, earned the Teaching Excellence Award from the Graduate College at Iowa State University. The Graduate TA Training program Dr. Chang led was instrumental in their success, showcasing its positive influence on both faculty and student learning experiences. This achievement underscores Dr. Chang's significant contributions to undergraduate and graduate education in the department and illustrates Dr. Chang's leadership role. Dr. Chang have made a meaningful impact through Dr. Chang's service to the department.
- Impact Assessment of the Graduate TA Training Program
  Dr. Hridesh Rajan requested to conduct a survey on November 26, 2023, and asked the graduate TAs who attended the graduate TA training programs in F22 and F23 to fill out a survey. The department sought to understand how the training influenced their roles and impacted their performance. As provided overwhelmingly positive responses, highlighting the program's essential role in preparing them for their responsibilities.
  Based on the 'Impact Survey,' here are the key points regarding the effectiveness of the training program, each supported by at least three original comments from the graduate TAs:
  - Improvement in Performance: Many TAs reported substantial improvements in their performance due to the training.
    - One TA stated, "It improved my performance as TA. I understand the roles and responsibilities of TA and how to excel in it."
    - Another commented, "The training proved to be exceptionally beneficial, providing valuable insights that proved applicable throughout the semester."
    - A different TA shared, "This training prepared me for the duties required as a TA considering this was my first time. I was equipped to understand tasks and responsibilities expected during the job."
  - Practical Insights: TAs noted that the training provided important techniques and guidance.
    - One remarked, "The training gave direction on how to tackle TA hours and grading responsibilities, Do's and DONT's. Those really helped me to perform TA duties throughout the semester."
    - Another said, "It provided valuable insights into effective class management and grading strategies, significantly enhancing my confidence and efficiency as a TA this semester."
    - A third TA expressed, "The training is good and motivates TAs to better interact with students."
  - Skill Development: Specific skills related to tools like Canvas and Piazza were frequently highlighted.
    - One TA mentioned, "The insights gained from the training have been invaluable, particularly in enhancing my proficiency with Canvas."
    - Another stated, "The training helped me understand how to use Canvas and better assist my professors with their course creation."
    - A third comment noted, "The training has greatly enhanced my capabilities as a TA. All of the topics are very useful especially 'setting up Piazza', 'creating new modules in Canvas', and 'using the updated quiz features in Canvas'."
  - Positive Feedback on Content: TAs found the discussions on various topics beneficial.
    - One TA said, "This training has helped me learn the essential skills needed to be a great teaching assistant."
    - Another noted, "The discussions on teaching and learning strategies were enriching. I have been able to incorporate some of these techniques into my sessions, resulting in improved communication and understanding between myself and the students."
    - A third TA shared, "First, thank you for organizing the 'Graduate TA Training'. It gave me an opportunity to get familiar with the expectations and responsibilities of being a TA."
  - High Satisfaction Rate: Overall, TAs expressed high satisfaction with the training, emphasizing its role in preparing them for their responsibilities.
    - One TA shared, "Overall, this training has been invaluable in refining my skills and approach as a TA. I am grateful for this opportunity."
    - Another noted, "The TA training is very beneficial for me to complete my TA duties. Overall, I had a very nice experience in the training."
    - A third TA expressed gratitude, saying, "The training was really good for me to understand the requirements and guidelines. It has also helped me to communicate with the students and instructor effectively."
  - Training Increases Confidence in Roles and Responsibilities: The training has significantly boosted TAs' confidence in their ability to perform their duties effectively.
    - One TA stated, "The training really boosted my confidence and performance as a TA this semester."
    - Another remarked, "This training prepared me for the duties required as a TA considering this was my first time. I was equipped to understand tasks and responsibilities expected during the job."
    - A third TA expressed, "Overall, this training has been invaluable in refining my skills and approach as a TA."
    The Graduate TA Training program has proven to be a transformative experience for TAs, significantly enhancing their skills, performance, and confidence in their roles. Participants consistently reported that the program played an essential role in equipping them for their duties. The insights gained from the training have empowered TAs to navigate their duties effectively, leading to improved communication, effective classroom management, and a deeper understanding of their responsibilities. This strong endorsement of the training program highlights its profound impact on TAs' professional development and their ability to excel in their roles.
- Survey Results from the 2024 Graduate TA Training Program
  The 2024 Graduate TA Training program achieved remarkable success, with a 100% satisfaction rate. It demonstrates the program's effectiveness in equipping new teaching assistants with essential skills and knowledge. Below are the survey results:
  - ‘Overall Satisfaction’:
    - Overall session satisfaction rate: 100%
    - Importance: Participants rated the overall training experience as ‘good’ or ‘very good’, indicating exceptional satisfaction with the program.
  - ‘TA Expectations and Responsibilities’:
    - Session satisfaction rate: 91%
    - Importance: Clarifies roles and responsibilities, empowering TAs to navigate duties with confidence.
  - ‘How to Design a Canvas Course’ and ‘How Do We Grade’:
    - Both sessions achieved: 100% satisfaction
    - Importance: Enhances technical skills and clarifies grading processes essential for effective student assessment.
  - ‘Overview of the IT Infrastructure’ and ‘Working with Students’:
    - Both sessions rated: 100% satisfaction
    - Importance: Familiarizes TAs with resources and support systems to assist students effectively.
  - Community Building and Networking:
    - Sessions like ‘Group Photo,’ ‘Department Tour and Group Scavenger Hunt,’ and ‘Town Hall Meeting’ received: 91% satisfaction
    - Importance: Fosters collaboration and a sense of belonging among TAs and faculty.
  - Dinner with Professors and Experienced TAs:
    - Session satisfaction rate: 82%
    - Importance: Highlights the value of networking and building relationships within the department.
  - Title IX and FERPA Online Training:
    - Satisfaction rate: 91%
    - Importance: Emphasizes understanding legal and ethical considerations for maintaining a safe educational environment.
    The Graduate TA Training program has significantly enhanced the TA experience within the department, reinforcing their confidence and competence. Participants reported gaining the skills necessary to manage classroom dynamics and engage with students, demonstrating the training's positive impact on their teaching effectiveness.
    Overall, the program cultivates a dynamic and empowering environment by equipping TAs with essential skills that enhance their individual performance and contribute to the department's collective success. The strong positive feedback underscores the program's critical role in professional development and its lasting influence on the academic community. The ‘Impact Survey’ conducted last year at Dr. Hridesh Rajan's request confirms the program's success. Graduate TAs reported notable advancements in their skills and responsibilities.
  August 19, 2024 Graduate TA Training Class. (Photographed by Kate Sharma, Department of Computer Science, Iowa State University.)