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Capella University
Dr. Charlie Grantham
Adjunct Professor
Capella University
Having taught online classes for more than two decades, professor Charlie Grantham brings a wealth of experience to the virtual classroom. Grantham is a leading expert in subjects such as distributed work and telecommuting, with eight published books and more than two dozen published technical papers. He also co-founded the Work Design Collaborative and acted as its executive producer from 2002 to 2010. He currently teaches at Capella University in their business department, specializing in courses covering organization and leadership.
How did you get your start working in online education?
I began teaching online in 1990 while on the faculty of the University of San Francisco. I taught online then to reach more students who were geographically isolated from the central campus. It has become much more interactive since then, both between teacher and student and among students themselves. When I first started, it wasn’t much more than email with attachments. Now, I am teaching classes in business strategy and leadership at Capella. I also serve on several dissertation committees and act as a reviewer for doctoral comprehensive exams.
What business courses are available to students? What do you like about Capella’s curriculum?
A full range is available, from introductory organizational behavior to advanced research methods, financial analysis, and theory. I appreciate that Capella is current and up to date in their curriculum. We really attempt to make the learning relevant to today’s world. “Learning you can use on Monday morning,” I like to say.
Can you explain how Capella’s online classroom system works?
Capella uses a state-of-the-art application based on the Blackboard platform. Basically, it integrates learner-teacher communication via email and discussion groups. It also integrates assignment submission and grading functions. I think one of the major strengths of the Capella platform is its seamless connection to other learner and faculty resources, such as the library and tutoring resources outside the course room.
Could you describe what type of assignments students might receive in your class?
Most assignments call for written essays or papers. At the graduate level, these papers are completed over a six- or ten-week timeframe, depending on the overall course structure. The assignments are broken down into logical preparatory steps to facilitate the learning process. A pretty good example of the type of work in my classes is case study analysis. It’s really the Harvard business school method. What I really like to do is have students critique each other’s analysis as well.
How do you communicate with students? Do you network and keep up with students after the course is done?
I mostly communicate with students via the Capella platform and use emails as backup. Additionally, I occasionally set up telephone meetings with students either one on one or as a group. I stay in touch with some students after the quarter is done. Usually, it is with students who share a research topic interest.
How would you describe Capella’s student body?
Three words: mature, sophisticated, and dedicated.
What defines a successful online student in your classes? What advice do you have for students thinking of pursuing online education?
There are two characteristics which define a successful online student: superb writing skills and good time management. Because so much communication is done in writing, being able to write clearly, concisely, and consistently is an absolutely critical skill for success. Similarly, being able to manage your time and balance competing demands from work, family, and school is a core competency for success.
When it comes to online education, what makes Capella one of the best online colleges?
If I may say so, I think there are two things that make Capella one of the best. First, it is the quality of their faculty. These teachers are here because of their passion for teaching and helping students learn. Secondly, I believe it is the learning support system behind Capella, all the way from advising to a rich array of extra classroom resources—some of which I haven’t seen even on more traditional physical campuses.
