Moriah Smothers

Tell us something that your students might find interesting about you.

When I’m not working, I love spending time at home with my family, and I’m obsessed with my two Boston Terrier pups.

What is one book you think everyone should read?

Any psychological thriller with a great twist at the end!

Why did you start teaching?

I began teaching in 2009 as an elementary special education teacher. In 2012, I started teaching as an adjunct at USI and quickly discovered how much I loved working with future educators. That experience inspired me to pursue my doctoral degree with the goal of obtaining a tenure-track faculty position. I joined the USI faculty in 2017.

In your own words, what is the value of this degree to a student?

This degree helps open the next professional door for our graduates. It equips them with the skills, knowledge and experience needed to thrive in their classrooms, schools and districts.

What advice would you give to those considering this online program?

Our MSE program is supported by engaging and caring instructors who value working closely with graduate students. While the program is fully online, it still fosters a connected and supportive community.

What would you like students to take away from your classes?

I want my students to be able to apply a wide variety of research-backed skills to their classroom or administrative practice in ways that empower them to solve problems and continuously improve teaching and learning.

What types of projects can your students expect in these courses?

I strive to incorporate applied learning activities and assignments into all of my courses. Assignments include conducting research and integrating evidence-based pedagogical practices into graduate students’ professional contexts. I also teach guided improvement science courses, which involve conducting research within students’ own learning environments.

In which online courses/classes do you teach?

Master of Science in Education

Doctor of Education