Two Youngstown State University faculty members have earned the distinction of being among only nine finalists internationally in the Learning Design Community Awards, hosted by FeedbackFruits.

Jeffrey T. Coldren, professor and department chair of Psychological Sciences and Counseling, has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Engagement Experience category for his project titled “Examining Challenging Topics in Education Through Podcast and Discussion.” His approach invites students to listen to a podcast, engage in guided discussion of complex educational issues and reflect in writing, creating a layered, student-centered learning experience.

“Students today connect through podcasts and social platforms – it’s where they feel comfortable discussing ideas,” Coldren said. “This project lets them explore both sides of challenging topics in a space that feels safe and engaging, not intimidating.”

Coldren developed the activity using the FeedbackFruits platform to integrate podcasts, comments and peer discussions into a shared digital timeline. The goal, he said, was to encourage open dialogue and critical thinking beyond the classroom. “I’ve been teaching at YSU since 1994, and I’m still learning,” he said. “Technology like this reminds me that there are always new ways to reach students and keep them engaged.”

Rachel Faerber-Ovaska, instructional designer and part-time faculty, was named a finalist in the Innovative Assessment Design category for her project “Exploring Real-World Teaching Scenarios Through Social Annotation.” Her activity allows students to interact with simulated teaching scenarios and make instructional decisions in real time, annotating texts and videos collaboratively with classmates.

“When I design online learning, I aim to create the same sense of presence and connection students experience in a physical classroom,” Faerber-Ovaska said. “This project helps them collaborate, exchange ideas and make decisions as if they were learning side by side.”

Her work emphasizes human connection and community in digital learning environments. “Over seventy YSU faculty members have taken time to learn how to build these kinds of interactive activities,” Faerber-Ovaska said. “That commitment to innovative, high-quality instruction says a lot about who we are as educators.”

The public voting period for the Learning Design Community Awards is open through Nov. 25, and the winners will be announced on Dec. 11. To cast a vote, visit the FeedbackFruits Learning and Design Community Awards website.