Case Study: Missouri State University enhances DEI and career readiness in public speaking with Top Hat

Missouri State University teaches 1,300+ students with Top Hat

Missouri State University, specifically its Department of Communication, Media and Journalism, faced a challenge in its large-scale Public Speaking course. The existing static textbook was inadequate for advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) principles, failed to address career readiness, and was too expensive. Furthermore, it couldn't be customized to support the dozens of graduate teaching assistants who needed to tailor lessons to their expertise. The university partnered with vendor Top Hat to pilot its Interactive eText.

Top Hat's solution provided an Interactive eText that made representation and career-readiness central to the curriculum. The product allowed for easy customization of content, the addition of interactive activities, and hosted timely discussions on topics like job interviews. The results included improved student preparedness for class and more impactful lessons from GTAs, who praised the text for its relevance, ease of use, and inclusive approach. The adoption impacted over 1,300 students across 60 class sections.

Missouri State University