She received her doctorate in Educational Technology from Pepperdine University, and also holds degrees in Technical Communication from Colorado State University and Radio/TV/Film from Texas Christian University. She has over 23 years of experience in new media technologies and mediated communication. Other professional experiences include: Director of Technology; television producer/writer/talent; radio producer/writer/talent; distance learning specialist; and instructional designer. Currently, Dr. Switzer is conducting research on taxation of virtual worlds.