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Capella University
Kathryn Watkins van Asselt, PhD, LPC, NCC
Core Faculty – Counselor Education
Capella University
Dr. Kathryn Watkins van Asselt is a long time school counselor with a wealth of hands-on experience to share with her students. She is a core faculty member at Capella University teaching courses in counselor education. In addition, van Asselt is also the president of the Oregon School Counselor Association. Her specialties include leadership and advocacy and research.
How did you begin working in online education? What type of classes do you teach?
As a school counselor with my doctorate degree I wanted to stay up to date with current teaching practices. I was a bit cautious about online programs and wanted a first-hand experience. When I discovered there was a CACREP accredited online program, I wanted to get involved to further my understanding of how online programs work. After teaching a single course my concerns were assuaged, and I believed I could stand behind this format of education with confidence and pride. At that point I sought and obtained a full-time faculty position. Primarily I teach in Capella’s master’s in school counseling program.
What courses are available to students in this field of study?
Almost all of our courses are online. There are only two courses in a traditional setting and those both teach clinical counseling skills. We teach the foundational elements to be an effective counselor in face-to-face settings, including individual counseling skills and group counseling skills.
All of our content is taught in the online format, which makes it accessible to a wide-range of qualified students.
Can you explain the online learning platform that Capella uses? How does it facilitate student learning and interaction?
We use Blackboard, which allows us to provide constructive, individual feedback. We also have weekly conversational-style discussions that summarize what we have learned as it applies to real-life experiences.
What kind of assignments do students have? How long do students have to turn in assignments?
Our assessments align with traditional forms of assignments, such as synthesized research papers addressing key issues covered in courses. Students typically have 10 weeks to prepare for their final assignments, as the expectations are clearly delineated in the course syllabus, which they receive on the first day. There are typically benchmarks along the way to make sure students understand and complete their work according to the grading rubrics.
How do you communicate with students? Do you network and keep up with students after the quarter is done?
Our primary form of communication is via discussion boards and email. We have some phone calls when necessary and some synchronous meetings in online forums using tools such as Adobe Connect.
I have maintained close relationships with several of our graduates. We have presented at state-level conferences, and former students email me to share good news about jobs or to announce the birth of their babies.
How would you describe Capella’s student body?
Our students are very determined. They are unique in that most of them have substantial work experience and are here to get the degree for professional advancement. They are dedicated to finding a way to get their diploma while balancing work, family, and life. They aren’t looking for an easy ride but want a quality education in a format that fits their lifestyle. They know what they want and are here to achieve their goals.
What defines a successful online student in your classes? What advice do you have for students thinking of pursuing online education?
Successful students make school a priority. In life, there are always distractions and events that are unexpected; those who succeed find solutions to their challenges instead of collapsing under adversity. Not to sound insensitive, but tough situations always occur and triumphant students stay focused. Whether that means waking up early, staying up late, or delaying instant movies on Netflix, these students make it happen. School first; play later.
My primary advice is to make sure your program is accredited by your program specific body. Then, talk to current students and ask if they had the choice, would they do it again? If it is a solid program most students will rave about it; if not, take heed.
We have a solid reputation, and that carries weight when looking for jobs. Ultimately it comes down to finding the right program that will help you achieve your educational goals. At Capella we have all of the support in place including the right faculty to make sure that you succeed. If you are looking to get your degree online, our faculty members are dedicated to your completion. We are committed and we care about your success. Now, put your cup of coffee down and get started; we’re ready to start a discussion!
