Communication Arts faculty member, Maria Ines Marino, received a Professional Development Leave (PDL) from FIU in order to complete her doctorate dissertation in Educational Technology at the University of Florida (UF). Ms. Marino’s dissertation explores how cultural differences influence participation and involvement in online student discussions in web and computer supported collaborative learning (CSCL). The study aims at getting a deeper understanding of participation behaviors from the perspective of cultural communication differences. By studying the patterns of cultural differences, it can potentially reduce limitations in designing collaborative learning experiences and result in more positive interactions and adequate learning outcomes for students from multiple cultures.
As part of FIU’s Worlds Ahead initiative, Professional Development Leave is granted to employees engaged in research that makes an impact in their field and in the community. Faculty members granted PDL exceed expectations through innovations in the classroom and service to the university.
Before teaching for Communication Arts, Professor Marino worked as an Educational Media/Communication Coordinator and Educational Consultant for FIU Educational Technology Services for FIU Online. She has also piloted several workshops and seminars on technology solutions for online education.
Ms. Marino holds dual graduate degrees: an M.S in Mass Communication from FIU and an M.A. in Educational Technology from Northwestern State University. She has been teaching a wide range of courses for the Communication Arts department including Public Speaking, Intercultural Communication, Business Communication, Non Verbal Communication, Gender & Communication, Interpersonal Communication, and Political Communication. Ms. Marino also oversees the internship program for the department.
