Dr. Dean Goon has been the dean of academic Innovation at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University since June 2021, managing a team of over 75 professionals. With over 25 years of educational leadership, his expertise encompasses K-12 administration to higher education, including educational consulting, faculty development, and innovative education strategies. His career highlights include contributions to educational technology, digital learning, and global academic partnerships. In spring 2024, he completed a Fulbright assignment in Mitrovica, Kosovo. A GenAI transformation strategist specializing in higher education, Dean advocates for the intersection of generative AI and human skills to enhance teaching and learning, focusing on cultivating cognitive and socio-emotional capabilities. He emphasizes transformational approaches to unlock the full potential of GenAI tools. Dean serves on the AI Leadership Council for Boodlebox. A recognized thought leader, he frequently delivers conference presentations and Design Thinking workshops, such as “The Quest to Reclaim Human Connection: Coexisting with AI.”
In this insightful conversation with the Higher Education Digest, Dr. Dean shares his expertise on overcoming resistance to change in academia, the transformative potential of generative AI, and the evolving role of digital learning in preparing students for the future. He also discusses how specialized institutions can adapt to global trends while maintaining their core strengths, offering valuable insights for educators, academic leaders, and innovators striving to push the boundaries of learning.
Throughout your career, what has been the most significant challenge you’ve encountered in driving academic innovation, and how did you overcome it?
One of the most significant challenges I have encountered in driving academic innovation is resistance to change from faculty and institutional structures. Higher education, by nature, has long been built on tradition. Introducing emerging technologies and digital learning, such as online modalities, competency-based learning, AI-driven learning platforms, adaptive courseware, and mobile-first education models, has often been meet with skepticism and disparagement. The challenge has been twofold: shifting mindsets and building the necessary infrastructure to support innovation at scale.
When proposing digital learning initiatives, a common concern among faculty has been the fear that AI and technology advancements will diminish the human element of teaching. Many educators hesitated to adopt online learning, believing it could not replicate a face-to-face experience or provide personalized instruction. What we have learned over several decades is that online education has not only offered flexible learning options but created a high level of heutagogical-focused learners. Additionally, institutional bureaucracy often slowed the adoption of emerging technologies due to concerns about cost, data privacy, and scalability.
Over my career, I have concentrated on cultivating a culture of innovation. I focused on shifting the perception of digital learning from a disruptor to an enabler of deeper learning and authentic experiences. Through thought leadership, faculty workshops, and pilot programs, I showcased how digital learning and emerging tools can augment teaching by automating administrative tasks, offering real-time analytics on student performance and experience, and developing personalized learning pathways. Instead of mandating technology adoption, I developed professional development programs that empowered faculty to experiment with digital learning models at their own pace. We fostered a grassroots movement toward technology-enhanced learning by creating faculty innovation grants and recognizing early adopters.
To gain institutional buy-in, I leveraged data from pilot programs that demonstrated measurable improvements in student engagement and academic outcomes. This data-driven approach helped secure leadership support and funding for broader implementation.
Through these efforts, I have seen a shift in institutional culture— most faculty and administrators now view digital learning as a catalyst for student success rather than a threat. Today, AI-driven analytics guide curriculum decisions, mobile learning platforms increase accessibility, and faculty confidently integrate AI-powered tools to personalize instruction. Academic innovation in higher education requires persistence, collaboration, and a student-centered approach. While challenges remain, overcoming resistance to change has positioned Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as a recognized and highly ranked leader in the future of digital learning.
What are the most pressing challenges facing higher education institutions worldwide today, and how can they adapt to these evolving demands?
One of the most pressing challenges facing higher education institutions worldwide today is the rapidly changing landscape of workforce demands. The job market is evolving due to automation, artificial intelligence, and the gig economy, requiring universities to ensure that students graduate with technical skills and adaptable, critical-thinking abilities. Institutions must bridge the gap between traditional curricula and emerging industry needs by expanding interdisciplinary programs, strengthening business partnerships, and integrating experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and co-op programs.
The rapid pace of technological advancements also necessitates a shift in teaching methodologies. Universities must integrate digital learning tools, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to personalize education and enhance student engagement. For example, adaptive learning platforms can provide customized feedback, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
To navigate these challenges, higher education institutions must embrace agility, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring they remain relevant and continue to empower future generations of learners.
How do you envision the role of technology, particularly AI and mobile learning, in shaping the future of education? What are the opportunities and potential pitfalls?
The role of technology, particularly Generative AI (GenAI) and mobile learning is poised to revolutionize education by making learning more personalized, accessible, and efficient. AI-powered tools can enhance students’ engagement with content, while mobile learning platforms can expand educational access beyond traditional classrooms. However, institutions must also navigate ethical, pedagogical, and security concerns to ensure these technologies are used responsibly.
Integrating Generative AI (GenAI) and mobile learning in education presents numerous opportunities to enhance teaching and learning experiences. One of the key benefits is personalized and adaptive learning, where AI-driven platforms can tailor educational content to individual learning preferences and paces. These platforms provide real-time feedback by analyzing student performance, allowing customized support. AI-powered tutors, for example, can identify specific knowledge gaps and offer targeted explanations, helping students master complex concepts more effectively.
Another significant advantage is increased accessibility. The combination of mobile learning and AI can bridge educational gaps, particularly for students in remote or underserved areas. AI-driven language translation tools help break down linguistic barriers, while text-to-speech and speech-to-text features support students with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive learning environment. Additionally, GenAI enhances content creation and engagement by generating interactive learning materials such as quizzes, summaries, and virtual simulations. Educators can leverage AI to automate administrative tasks like grading and scheduling, allowing them to focus more on instruction and mentorship.
Furthermore, AI-driven simulations and virtual labs provide real-world skill development in aviation, aerospace, engineering, and business fields. These tools offer hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to practice decision-making in realistic scenarios and better prepare for the workforce.
Despite these advantages, GenAI and mobile learning have potential challenges and pitfalls. One primary concern is bias and misinformation, as AI models may inherit biases from their training data, reinforcing stereotypes or generating misleading content. To mitigate this, institutions must implement strong oversight mechanisms to ensure fairness and accuracy in AI-driven learning tools. Data privacy and security risks also pose significant challenges, as AI-powered platforms collect vast amounts of student data. Universities must establish robust data governance policies to safeguard sensitive information.
Additionally, there is a risk of over-reliance on technology. While AI can significantly enhance learning experiences, it should complement rather than replace human interaction. Critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence are best nurtured through meaningful engagement with peers and educators. A balanced approach that integrates AI while maintaining human elements in education is essential to maximize the benefits of these advancements.
Embry-Riddle is known for its focus on aeronautical science. How do you see specialized institutions adapting to the broader trends in higher education while maintaining their unique strengths?
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has long been synonymous with excellence in aviation and aerospace. As higher education evolves, specialized institutions like ours must adeptly navigate broader trends while preserving our unique strengths. The current Strategic Plan emphasizes five key pillars: The Student Experience, Enrollment Management, Academic and Faculty Excellence, Research and Innovation, and Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement. By focusing on these areas, the university aims to enhance personalized learning, expand the Worldwide online campus, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the aerospace industry.
While maintaining its core focus on aviation and aerospace, Embry-Riddle embraces technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and data analytics to enrich educational experiences. The Worldwide campus continues to expand online learning and develop flexible learning opportunities to cater to diverse student bodies, including enlisted military and veterans, working professionals, and international learners. Embry-Riddle enriches the educational experience and drives innovation that transcends traditional boundaries through interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic partnerships.
What innovative pedagogical approaches do you believe hold the most promise for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes in the coming years?
Innovative pedagogical approaches integrating technology, experiential learning, and personalized education are most promising for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes in the coming years. One of the most transformative methods is AI-powered adaptive learning, which customizes educational content based on students’ progress, strengths, and areas for improvement. AI-driven platforms can provide real-time feedback, ensuring students receive targeted support and move through the material at their own pace. This individualized approach fosters deeper comprehension and retention of knowledge.
Another promising approach is immersive learning through augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). These technologies create interactive, hands-on learning environments that allow students to engage with complex concepts more tangibly. Embry-Riddle students can engage in the campus XR Lab to explore, develop, and test immersive simulation technologies for use in the aviation and aerospace industries. Additionally, gamification—incorporating game design elements like challenges, rewards, and competition—has boosted motivation and engagement. When combined with project-based and experiential learning, where students work on real-world problems and collaborate with industry professionals, these approaches help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students for the evolving workforce.
Finally, the rise of social and collaborative learning models—such as peer-to-peer instruction and digital learning communities—encourages students to engage more actively in their education. Institutions can create more dynamic and inclusive learning environments by leveraging mobile learning and AI-driven discussion platforms like Yellowdig. As education evolves, these pedagogical innovations will be essential in fostering deeper student engagement, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
What advice would you give to aspiring academic leaders who are passionate about fostering innovation and positive changes within their institutions?
For aspiring academic leaders passionate about fostering innovation and positive change within their institutions, I advise embracing a strategic and empathetic approach to change management while leveraging design thinking to create impactful and sustainable solutions.
Change in higher education is often met with resistance, making effective change management essential. Leaders must cultivate a culture of collaboration and openness, ensuring that faculty, staff, and students feel heard and included in the innovation process. Building cross-functional innovation teams, piloting small-scale projects before full implementation, and using data-driven storytelling to demonstrate the benefits of change can help gain institutional buy-in. Transparency and clear communication are key. Leaders should consistently articulate the “why” behind the change, addressing concerns and aligning innovation efforts with institutional values and goals.
Additionally, applying design thinking—a human-centered, iterative problem-solving approach—can drive meaningful improvements in teaching, learning, and administrative processes. Academic leaders should start by profoundly understanding stakeholder needs through empathy-driven research, such as faculty interviews, student feedback, and data analytics. From there, they should foster a prototype-and-test mindset, where new initiatives (e.g., AI-driven learning tools, hybrid education models, or student support innovations) are iteratively developed, tested, and refined based on honest user feedback. Encouraging an environment where experimentation is celebrated rather than feared allows institutions to adapt and evolve more effectively.
Above all, innovation in higher education requires courageous leadership, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Leaders must model curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to challenge traditional paradigms, ensuring that their institutions remain future-ready while staying true to their educational mission.
On a more personal note, what fuels your passion for education and inspires you to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in higher learning?
My passion for education is driven by a deep belief in its power to transform lives and shape the future. This is represented in the Core Values of my Division of Academic Innovation at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. What fuels me is the exploration of new possibilities—leveraging emerging technologies, AI-driven learning, and design thinking to reimagine how we can better educate and engage students. I find inspiration in the resilience and curiosity of learners and educators who are eager to embrace change and push beyond traditional boundaries. Actual progress comes through collaboration, bringing together faculty, students, and industry leaders to co-create solutions that make education more accessible, personalized, and impactful. Through innovation, I am committed to developing transformative learning experiences that prepare students for an evolving world. Ultimately, my goal is to drive advancement in higher education by fostering a culture of continuous learning, adaptability, and bold experimentation—ensuring that institutions remain dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready.
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