05/19/2026
Chief Information Officer Publishes Essay in Online IT Magazine
Dr. Joshua Gaul, Chief Information Officer, recently had his essay Unjust By Design: A Rawlsian Critique of Digital Learning Systems published in eLearning Mag, an online publication geared toward higher education digital professionals, including faculty who teach online classes and IT professionals.
Dr. Gaul began working on the essay which examines the inherent unethical and unbalanced nature of the modern learning management system, pushing for an innovative approach to the architecture of online learning systems through the eyes of John Rawls’ “veil of ignorance” thought experiment in 2021 as the pandemic was evolving. While attending the Spring 2025 New Jersey EdgeCon at Seton Hall University, he discussed the topic with Dr. Steven D’Agostino, Senior Director for Online Programs at Fordham University. This initial exchange led to an extended collaboration over several months, resulting in the co-authored publication.
Dr. Gaul shared, “A just digital learning environment isn’t built for efficiency - it’s built for people: expanding agency, honoring diverse needs, centering equity from the start, and recognizing design as an ethical act.”
eLearn Magazine is a leading source of high-quality information on the uses of online learning and training strategies in a variety of contexts for K-12, higher education, and the corporate workforce.eLearn Magazine presents new technologies and approaches for creating, delivering, and supporting on...