By Larry Urish, contributing writer
Professor Scott James has seen a huge number of significant changes during his time at Santiago Canyon College. Then again, that figures since he’s been there for more than a quarter century.
Since first stepping onto SCC’s campus, not only has James lived through these changes, but he’s also been behind some of the most beneficial. His expertise with everything digital, coupled with a forward-thinking mindset, has helped position SCC on the cutting edge of distance learning, in which students attend class from any locale.
Some say online learning represents the future of education. Thanks largely to James, Santiago Canyon College’s distance education coordinator, it’s been SCC’s current reality for years. As of Spring 2024, 85% of the college’s credit students are taking at least one fully online or one hybrid class, and 52% are exclusively enrolled in online courses, according to James.
His affinity for digital tech came early. “Around fifth grade, I bought one of the first PCs ever made, by Texas Instruments, and taught myself basic programming language.”
After initially stumbling at SCC (“I was rudderless”), James later returned and became an honors student while working part-time jobs, primarily in computers and computer networking.
James’ job as alternate media specialist in Disabled Students Program & Services (the one before his current position) didn’t even exist when he got the offer in 2001. “It was a brand-new job that nobody knew how to do,” he said. “Helping students overcome their disability with technology resonated with me. I grew up with learning challenges, and I’ve always used technology tools to make me a more effective learner.”
His work took on many forms. For example, he assisted students with visual disabilities. “Many students would get so good at reading tech-to-speech programs, they’d pump up the voice to 350 words per minute, far higher than the average reading speed. It’s really impressive.”
While working as alternate media specialist, James attended Embry-Riddle University, initially wanting to become a pilot. He shifted his focus, eventually earning a bachelor’s in technical management in 2005. Primarily working online, James earned a master’s in educational technology at Pepperdine University in 2007.
“Educational Technology is one of the most controversial disciplines,” James said. “Every new technology seems to be banned by teachers at first.” … However, “(SCC) has always been very supportive of me and supporting learning with high-quality online classes.”
Seeing a growing need for more online instruction, the college’s then–VP of Academic Affairs named James distance education coordinator in 2013. He initially created automation that facilitated access to the campus’ education tech tools, such as the learning management system, for both faculty and students. Later focusing on instruction quality, he designed an online teaching certification by curating and creating training materials incorporating, among other elements, instructional design, student authentic assessment and ADA accessibility. He’s continually assisting faculty with tech and instructional support.
The work comes in hot and heavy from all directions. James’ administrative obligations alone would floor most people. He serves as co-chair for the college’s Technology Innovations and Distance Education Committee; its Technology Committee; and the Technology Advisory Group (the District’s tech committee). He’s also a member of SCC’s Planning and Institutional Effectiveness, Comprehensive Educational Planning, and Accreditation committees.
In addition to community outreach efforts, James teaches Educational Technologies and in the near future will likely be teaching AI for Educators. “Our students need (artificial intelligence) skills,” he said. “AI promotes learning and one’s natural abilities. It’s an amazing teacher’s tool to support learning and overcome barriers.”
James’ efforts are appreciated throughout SCC. “Scott has laid the critical foundation to ensure quality online education here at Santiago Canyon College,” said Aaron Voelcker, dean of Institutional Effectiveness, Library & Learning Support Services. “Through his work, the college has a robust Online Teaching Certification program, which is a requirement for all SCC faculty members teaching online courses. With the support of SCC’s instructional designer, Amanda Carpenter, faculty are taught best practices for online instruction, learn about effective course design and learn how to make their online courses accessible and engaging for all types of learning styles.”
“Working with (James) is awesome,” said Carpenter. “He is constantly learning and eager to keep us informed as a campus by staying up to date on trending topics in the field. His extensive knowledge and dedication to continuous improvement have earned him the respect of everyone.”
When asked what one piece of advice he’d give an educator, James said, “In every decision you make, pause to consider: ‘Am I thinking in a growth mindset, and is this truly serving the best interests of my students?’ Tradition often guides our choices, but it’s important to question these precedents and embrace growth for the benefit of our learners.”
