Thomas Dyer
Online Full Time Faculty
Biography
"As an educator and leader in digital learning, I am committed to designing transformative, human-centered learning experiences that empower students and faculty to thrive in an evolving educational landscape. By leveraging innovative technologies, fostering meaningful connections, and driving continuous improvement, I strive to create inclusive, engaging, and impactful learning environments that prepare learners for success today and in the future." Thomas Dyer, PhD Dr. Thomas Dyer is an experienced educator, instructional designer, and leader in digital learning, specializing in learning experience design, educational technology, and social presence in online education. As a certified Arizona K-8 educator with over 16 years of expertise in virtual teaching, he has a deep commitment to creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments that leverage emerging technologies to enhance engagement and achievement. A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Dyer understands the transformative power of education and is dedicated to developing innovative strategies that support diverse learners. His expertise in digital fluency, instructional design, and faculty development has positioned him as a thought leader in online learning best practices. Through strategic partnerships, research, and leadership, he works to ensure that learning technologies are designed and implemented in ways that align with institutional goals and enhance student success. His work in social presence literacy and human-centered learning experiences directly informs his leadership in advancing innovative, scalable, and impactful digital education initiatives.
Education
  • Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology
  • Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
  • Master of Education in Educational Administration and Organizational Leadership
  • Master of Science in Psychology
Programs Taught
  • Bachelor of Arts in Dance for Secondary Education
  • Bachelor of Arts in English for Secondary Education
  • Bachelor of Arts in History for Secondary Education
  • Bachelor of Arts in Theatre for Secondary Education
  • Bridge (Master of Science in Athletic Training)
Classes
  • EDU-210: Foundations of Education
  • IGC-100: Introduction Grand Canyon University
  • PHI-105: 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • PSY-102: General Psychology
  • PSY-352: Health Psychology
Research Interests
  • Thomas D. Dyer, PhD is a professor in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Grand Canyon University. He has more than 15 years of experience in higher education and online education. His research focuses on examining student engagement, participation, and community connection in the online classroom through social presence strategies. He explores strategies for integrating community cohesion, online proximity, and social presence literacy through careful and considerate technology integration. Thomas is an active teacher, advocate, researcher, author, and presenter in the field of online education and social presence literacy. Thomas has been serving on the R&TT committee as a member since 2014 and the chair since 2022.
Publications
  • Dyer,T., & Steele, J. (2014). Use of KWLs in the online classroom as itcorrelates to increased participation. Journalof Instructional Research, 3, 8-14.


  • Dyer, T., & Steele, J.. (2014). Use of KWLs in the Online Classroom as it Correlates to Increased Participation.
  • Dyer, T., & Steele, J.P. (2014). Assessing what your students know, want to know, and have learned..
  • Steele, J.P, Dyer, T., Larson, E., & Holbeck, R. (2014). Integrating technology into the online classroom, Part II. Faculty Focus.

  • Steele, J.P, Dyer, T., Larson, E., & Holbeck, R. (2014). Integrating technology into the online classroom, Part I. Faculty Focus.

Presentations
  • SoTL Commons
  • SoTL Commons
  • The 2015 PASSHE Virtual Conference
  • SoTL Commons
  • SoTL Commons
Licenses / Certificates
  • Arizona Teaching Certificate
Awards
  • Provost Excellence Award - 2023
  • Leadership in Research and Scholarly Activity Reward - 2016
  • Employee All-Star Team - 2017
AI master’s student working on a computer at a desk

Direct Access for GCU Students

If you currently have an active GCU login, you can access faculty contact information via the Student Access portal.