Valerie Amber is an associate professor in the teacher education department at National University. She began teaching distance education courses in 2000 and subsequently developed expertise in online learning design and development. She has worked with educators on innovative ways to infuse technology in curriculum such as Equity and Diversity, Early Cognition, Electronic Portfolios for Teacher Credential Candidates and Integrating Technology in Research & Methods Courses for Preservice Teachers. Her research focuses on emerging technologies for learning and multi-user 3D online learning environments. She has served as a volunteer for the S.P.C.A. in Long Beach and supported numerous animal charities.