Author ORCID Identifier
Semester
Spring
Date of Graduation
2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Type
EdD
College
College of Education and Human Services
Department
Not Listed
Committee Chair
Reagan Curtis
Committee Co-Chair
Jake Follmer
Committee Member
Jake Follmer
Committee Member
Johnna Bolyard
Committee Member
John Oughton
Abstract
The expansion of online education has amplified the need for structured, pedagogically informed faculty development. This study explored the implementation of the Barbosa Model—an instructional design framework developed to support faculty in creating effective, engaging, and well-aligned online courses. Grounded in established instructional theories and tailored to institutional needs, the model guides faculty through five phases: Existing Course, Mapping Structure, Review, Design, and Evaluation.
The study conducted at West Liberty University used pre- and post-interviews, faculty reflections, and thematic analysis to evaluate the model’s influence on faculty perceptions, instructional strategies, and professional growth. Findings revealed that while faculty perceptions of online teaching were initially high, the Barbosa Model prompted deeper reflection, enhanced instructional alignment, and reinforced best practices in engagement and assessment. The faculty reported improved clarity in course design and assessment strategies and increased intentionality in design decisions.
This research contributes to the growing literature on faculty development and instructional design in higher education by demonstrating how a systematic, reflective model can foster sustainable instructional improvement. The Barbosa Model offers a flexible, scalable approach for institutions seeking to enhance the quality of online instruction while supporting faculty autonomy and professional learning. Ultimately, this approach ensures that online education remains effective, engaging, and adaptable to the evolving needs of educators and learners, supporting a sustainable model of high-quality instruction.
Recommended Citation
Martin Barbosa, Gabriela, "The Barbosa Model: Supporting Faculty in Online Course Development through a Structured Instructional Design Approach" (2025). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 12895.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/12895