LLCC Educator Receives International Award

A Lincoln Land Community College educator has received international recognition for the design of an online sociology course aimed at making course material accessible and adaptable for students with different academic backgrounds and schedules.

Jaclyn Tabor, Ph.D., instructional designer and sociology instructor at LLCC, was named a recipient of Instructure’s 2026 Outstanding Course Award as part of the organization’s Academic Excellence Awards. The award recognizes achievements in education and teaching practices designed to improve student learning.

Tabor received the award for her 16-week online introduction to sociology course. The course was selected in part for its PANDA module architecture, accessibility-centered design and inclusive assessment practices developed to remain effective as the use of artificial intelligence becomes more common in education.

The course was designed to serve students with a range of academic backgrounds, learning preferences and schedules. Weekly modules use a scaffolded structure that allows students to build on concepts as they progress through the semester.

As part of the recognition, Tabor was invited to attend InstructureCon, held July 21-23 in Louisville, Kentucky. Award recipients were recognized during the conference for their work and contributions to education.

“Dr. Tabor’s commitment to innovative, student-centered learning exemplifies the excellence we strive for at Lincoln Land Community College,” said Dr. Joel Dykstra, associate vice president of academic support. “This recognition highlights her dedication to creating accessible and engaging educational experiences that meet the needs of today’s learners.”

Tabor has served as an instructional designer at LLCC since August 2025. She earned her doctorate and master’s degree in sociology from Indiana University and holds bachelor’s degrees in sociology and women’s studies from Purdue University.