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Elizabeth Gearin, Ph.D., AICP

Assistant Professor
College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES)

I want to extend my thanks to UDC’s Center for the Advancement of Learning (CAL) team—especially Julian King—and the Quality Matters (QM) Reviewers for their instrumental support in transforming ENSC 510: Urban Land Use Planning. Through their guidance and the structured framework of the Applying the QM Rubric (APPQMR), I’ve gained valuable insights into designing a course that truly resonates with students. This experience has not only deepened my understanding of effective course navigation but also introduced innovative ways to make content more interactive and engaging.

The redesigned ENSC 510 now incorporates diverse, hands-on learning activities and multimedia resources that bring real-world urban planning challenges directly into the course. By aligning with best practices in digital engagement, I learned how to craft assignments and discussions that encourage critical thinking and spark meaningful dialogue, helping students apply course concepts in practical scenarios. With CAL and QM’s expert input, the course now provides a seamless, accessible experience that supports varied learning styles and enhances student interaction, making the hybrid format both flexible and dynamic.