Simply the Best: Encouraging Excellence in LMS Course Sites Through Student Nominations

Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 3:15PM–4:00PM CT | EDUCAUSE Commons, EDUCAUSE Central Poster Area
Session Type: Poster Session
Delivery Format: Poster

Are you looking for ways to recognize and motivate instructors in higher education? Join us to explore two innovative student-nominated recognition programs at The University of Iowa and the University of Minnesota. These programs aim to recognize and support instructors' work in developing effective LMS course sites that are high-quality and accessible. In this session, you'll learn how to develop and implement student-nominated awards that acknowledge the hard work of instructors while fostering motivation, and social encouragement. We'll share our approaches, detailing the inspiration behind the awards, the nomination process, evaluation rounds, and the awards ceremony. We will provide valuable lessons learned, while exploring common themes in nominated courses and their positive impact on student learning and engagement. Discover valuable knowledge and actionable insights that can be applied at your own institution. By attending, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the impact of LMS course design on student learning. We will demonstrate how student-nominated award programs encourage instructors to refine their course design and transform the educational experience for both instructors and students. Join us to explore the power of recognizing and rewarding the hard work of instructors and how this positive feedback contributes to improving higher education.

Presenters

  • August Schoen

    Instructional Designer, University of Minnesota
  • Nicole Villanueva

    Instructional Technology Consultant, The University of Iowa

Resources & Downloads

  • Simply The Best Encouraging Excellence in LMS Course Sites Through Student Nominations

    Updated on 10/17/2025