Michelle Schwarz,  Ed.D., Ph.D.
Founder of Althea Academy LLC

 

I am an educator and practitioner with a Doctor of Education (EdD) and experience teaching Business Administration and Education courses in online and higher education environments. My work bridges theory and practice, integrating evidence-based pedagogy with real-world business and organizational applications. I specialize in designing engaging, learner-centered online instruction that supports adult learners, professionals, and emerging leaders.  

My background includes formal training in Data Science and hands-on Business Data Analysis experience, enabling me to apply analytical thinking, data-informed decision-making, and emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence—to instructional design, organizational strategy, and consulting work. I also bring training in management consulting, with strengths in problem diagnosis, strategic analysis, and performance improvement across educational and business contexts.  

In addition, I hold a PhD in Holistic Life Coaching, which informs my human-centered approach to leadership, learning, and professional development. This interdisciplinary perspective allows me to support individuals and organizations through both analytical rigor and holistic, values-driven practices.  I am currently open to university teaching opportunities, curriculum development roles, and consulting engagements in higher education, business, leadership development, and data-informed organizational strategy.


Teaching Philosophy:
Self-Determination Theory

As an educator, coach, and lifelong learner, I believe that the most profound and lasting growth occurs when students are empowered to take ownership of their learning journey. My teaching philosophy is rooted in Self-Determination Theory, which emphasizes that human beings thrive when three core psychological needs are met: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

I create learning environments that:
  • Foster Autonomy - I encourage students to make meaningful choices in their learning process by providing opportunities for them to explore, question, and apply concepts in ways that align with their goals, values, and unique paths. By empowering them to direct their growth, I cultivate intrinsic motivation and a sense of personal responsibility.
  • Develop Competence - Learning flourishes when students feel capable and confident. I design experiences that balance challenge with support, offering clear instruction, constructive feedback, and real-world application. My aim is to help students not only acquire knowledge but also develop the skills and self-belief to apply it effectively in their professional and personal lives.
  • Build Relatedness - True transformation happens in a safe and connected community. I prioritize genuine relationships, active listening, and spirit of collaboration. In every interaction,  I strive to create an atmosphere where students feel respected, supported, and inspired to contribute their voices and perspectives.
Through the lens of Self-Determination Theory, teaching becomes more than the transfer of knowledge - it becomes an act of empowerment. My role is to guide, inspire, and equip learners to step into their fullest potential, knowing that they are capable, autonomous, and deeply connected to a greater purpose.

Adjunct Instructor at
the University of the People

As part of my commitment to expanding access to education, I serve as an Adjunct Instructor with University of the People, the world’s first non-profit, tuition-free, accredited online university. In this role, I have the privilege of teaching and mentoring students from across the globe, many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue higher education.

My work with UoPeople allows me to give back to the global community by supporting diverse learners, fostering academic excellence, and contributing to a mission that is reshaping what higher education can look like—accessible, inclusive, and transformative. I believe that high-quality education should not be limited by geography, finances, or circumstance, and I am honored to be part of a university that embodies this vision.

Through this service, I empower students to reach their academic and professional goals, while also advancing the mission of creating learning environments that uplift, inspire, and change lives.

These are the courses that I teach:

School of Education:

Assessment and Evaluation
Curriculum Design & Instructional Decision Making
Education in Context: History, Philosophy, and Sociology
Learning Theory & Implications for Instruction
Online Education Strategies

School of Business Administration:

Business Policy and Strategy
Consumer Behavior
E-Commerce
Multinational Management
Organizational Behavior
Strategic Management