Faculty Research Highlights Humanizing Online Learning to Promote Equity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

QUEENS, NY, August 25, 2026 — A new study by Dr. Ekaterina Midgette and Dr. Olivia G. Stewart, recently published in Teaching and Teacher Education, offers important insights into how faculty can design more inclusive, equitable, and human‑centered online learning environments. Supported by a St. John’s University Seed Grant, the research underscores the University’s commitment to advancing innovative, student‑centered teaching and learning.

The study draws on the perspectives of 362 undergraduate and graduate students across diverse academic programs at St. John’s University. Its findings highlight how faculty currently humanize online courses and identify additional practices students believe would strengthen equity, inclusion, and support—particularly for learners who have been traditionally academically marginalized.

The article, “Humanizing Online Higher Education: Equitable Outcomes and Increased Support for Traditionally Academically Marginalized Students,” is now available in Teaching and Teacher Education.

CONTACT: 

Ekaterina Midgette, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Education Specialties
[email protected]
 

Olivia G. Stewart, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Education Specialties
[email protected]