Cosmetology board hears detailed pitch for asynchronous theory instruction; members raise integrity concerns

Representatives of private-sector training vendors and a consulting group presented to the Tennessee Cosmetology and Barber Examiners Board on Monday, asking the board to permit asynchronous (self‑paced) delivery for the theory portion of cosmetology programs, while keeping all hands‑on practical instruction on campus.

Nikki England, a vocational education consultant who leads the England Influence, told the board, “I am here today because I have a prospective client in Tennessee who is interested in offering asynchronous distance education delivery for their cosmetology program.” She argued asynchronous theory options can increase access for working adults and noted other states permit hybrid or asynchronous theory instruction.

Corina Santoro, general manager for Milady’s CEMA learning platform, described features she said mitigate integrity risks: activity logging, event tracking, automatic logout for inactivity, password-protected exams and controls that prevent students from skipping video content. “Our courses are developed with a variety of learning activities to…