We look forward to you joining us virtually on Friday, October 11, 2024. Please continue to check back for the most up-to-date information.

2024 Tech Conference Day Schedule

8:00 a.m. EDT - Sign in to familiarize yourself with the Zoom Events platform and mingle in the Chat or Networking space
 

 
8:15-9:15 a.m. EDT  Welcome; Keynote
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How Curiosity can be a Roadmap to Educational Transformation

In this dynamic and thought-provoking presentation, Dr. York will guide us through the exciting possibilities that arise when we embrace curiosity in educational transformation. From Augmented Reality, AI, and the Metaverse to physical space and even changing student demographics, his high-energy delivery and engaging storytelling will unlock your own curiosity for opportunities this year. Expect a series of "ah-ha" moments as Dr. York demonstrates how a curiosity-driven approach can transform educational practices, engage students, and prepare for a transformative educational future.

For more about Dr. York, please see his bio

 

9:15-9:30 a.m. EDT - Break/ Networking

9:30 - 10:00 a.m. EDT -  Session 1
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How to Safely Make AI Your TA

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Michael Vaughn

Appalachian State University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Tech Beyond the Classroom

Artificial Intelligence

This webinar will guide you through how to safely and ethically use generative AI platforms in your daily work. We'll explore practical examples of using AI to support teaching and course management tasks, like creating and revising content, improving accessibility, and providing feedback. We'll also explore critical issues of data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and accountability, ensuring that ethical considerations are always a guiding factor when we use AI. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of best practices and guidelines for deploying AI tools effectively and responsibly in teaching and learning environments.

Adaptive E-Learning for Compliance Training

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Ryan Frasch

The University of Pennsylvania

Forum/ Lecture Discussion


Tech Beyond the Classroom

Adaptive E-learning is an approach to learning that personalizes e-learning content in real time for a user, based on their performance and activity in an online course. We will explore a template built by Ryan Frasch in Articulate Storyline 360 to address the business need of providing required compliance training in a way that is both effective for training and an efficient use of the user's time.

Refreshing Experiences for Online Students: A Case Study of a Cross-Campus Partnership

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Katie Wolfe-Burleson

Victoria Dalzell

Anderson University

Anderson University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

The majority of graduate programs at Anderson University are online and the Graduate Writing Hub (GWH) was established to assist these students. During fall 2023, the MS in Instructional Design and Learning Technology, which is completely online, partnered with the GWH to embed a writing coach into the program's research methods course. The aim was to support students as they wrote an extended literature review for the first time within an accelerated semester. Students felt that the required sessions were worth their time because they received support during all stages of the research and writing process. 

Innovative Youth Engagement at Montco: Next-Gen Learning with VR and AI

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Matt Kilbride


Kate Rauenzahn

Montgomery County Community College

Montgomery County Community College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

XR Technology & Artificial Intelligence

Discover how Montco's Discovery Programs are transforming pre-college education by integrating Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This presentation will showcase our innovative use of VR to engage 5th-8th grade students in immersive and dynamic learning experiences. Additionally, we'll highlight our goal of educating students on the responsible and effective use of AI through customized extension programming. This programming students not only learn how to use AI properly but also understand its ethical implications. Join us and explore the impact of how these cutting edge technologies are being utilized with our next generation of learners.  

Canceled: Implementing a Digital Accessibility Plan at Scale

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Brian Gall

Villanova University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Acessability & DEI

Albright College successfully implemented a plan to bring all online courses up to 100% accessible for students who use assistive devices and 90% across the College. See how a policy was brought to life and the total campus effort that it required to implement successfully.

"Good at Math": New Tools and Taxonomies for Aftermath Pedagogy

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Hector Mera Couto

Montgomery County Community College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Artificial Intelligence

The widespread access to cutting-edge scientific computing tools prompts a critical reconsideration of math pedagogy. Current taxonomies often blur the line between math and computation, leading to a narrow focus on standardized, procedural tasks that overlook essential mathematical skills.
 
This talk argues for the integration of open-source scientific computing platforms and AI tools to enhance the exploration of mathematical concepts. Drawing from experiences in my math and physics classrooms at Montgomery County Community College, I propose new pedagogical taxonomy items  that better reflect the diverse skills required to be "good at math."

Design for Inclusive Learning: Top 10 Steps to Take Now

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Kristen Simonds

Montgomery County Community College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Acessability & DEI

Join us as we explore the top ten actions you can take now to make your online course materials inclusive and engaging for all learners. We'll tackle common challenges and share practical solutions for images, color, typography, and more. Discover how you can create an environment where every student can thrive, regardless of their abilities.


10:00 - 10:15 a.m. EDT - Break/ Networking
10:15 - 10:45 a.m. EDT - Conference Sponsor - Elements 451
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Building the AI Ready Campus

Join us for a look into the AI Ready Campus. Where every exchange between an institution and its students is meaningful, personalized, and engaging. Where conversations are two-way streets, fostering a sense of belonging and nurturing student growth. Where AI does the heavy lifting, so staff can focus on what they do best - building genuine connections that foster a thriving academic community. We’ll explore the innovative ways institutions deploy AI to empower every aspect of the campus experience, setting new standards for student success and staff productivity. Whether providing students with personalized AI assistants or augmenting staff capabilities with advanced tools and insights, AI is setting a new benchmark for educational excellence.

Presenters:
Daniella Nordin, Director of Customer Success & Engagement
Ryan Ludwig, Senior Partnership Manager

Track: Tech Beyond the Classroom; Artificial Intelligences


10:45 -11:00 a.m. EDT - Break/ Networking

11:00 - 11:30 a.m. EDT - Session 2
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If You Build it, Will they Come? Creating Flexible Spaces for Student-to-Student Engagement in an Asynchronous Course

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Tom Donlan

Julie Lopez

Montgomery County Community College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today and Tomorrow

In 2020, the presenter taught public speaking in an asynchronous format for the first time. Converging forces of students longing for contact with classmates, along with the need for a more realistic way to manage the public speaking audience requirement, led to the creation of a support group model. Two successful pilot studies led to a three semester formal study of the effectiveness of creating flexible spaces for online public speaking students to practice and record their speeches synchronously in an asynchronous environment. The positive results, as well as possible ways to implement similar models in other asynchronous courses will be discussed.  

Future Learning: Designing Effective and Significant Lifelong Learning 

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Karen LaPlant


Zala Fashant

Metro State University

MinnState Colleges and Universities

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Artificial Intelligence

This session examines traditional and future design models of lifelong learning which can include greater access, convenience, immediacy, and credit for prior knowledge. How will faculty, designers, and institutions prepare to adapt to the changes that are centered more on learners? Join us for the analysis of microlearning, badges, stackable credentials and ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) to demonstrate mastery of outcomes where lifelong learning is delivered in a more seamless and immediate manner. If we want lifelong learning which is truly student-centered we need to make it easy for students to learn what they need when they need it.  

Rising to Meet Gen Z's Expectations in the Higher Ed Classroom and Beyond

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Sarah Denham

Makhosazana Lunga

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Since the start of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Gen Z students' expectations about their relationship with higher education has changed.  They expect to be prepared for their futures as competent employees, responsible citizens, and self-fulfilled human beings. Gone are the days of traditional education practices from previous generations. Now, there is an increased demand for flexibility in learning situations, digital education equality, and real-world learning opportunities. 

How do faculty and staff in higher education meet this generational shift? Join this session as we discuss the changes and what strategies and resources can be used to meet the new normal in education.

Breaking Down Barriers: How Assistive Technology Fosters Equity, Diversity, and Belonging

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Monica Losota

Lara McQue

Montgomery County Community College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Acessability & DEI

Discussion of what assistive technology is and how it is used in and out of the classroom. Examine how AT can create environments for belonging and equity in institutions and how MC3 is striving towards these goals. Discuss how Office of Disability Services and Office of EDB are collaborating with this approach.

Designing an Online Course Using GenAI and Open Resources

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

LaTonya Motley

Northland Pioneer College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Artificial Intelligence

Education is an undergoing a rapid transformation, propelled by advancements in artificial intelligence and the increasing availability of open educational resources. As a result, educators need to adapt their curricula and teaching methodologies to align with the evolving technological landscape of the 21st century. This session will present best practices and strategies for the efficient design of an online course, leveraging generative AI technologies and open educational resources to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes.

Becoming Futures-Empowered: Being Prepared to Educate Students in Multiple Futures

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Chris Mayer

United States Military Academy

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Tech Beyond the Classroom

People and organizations are having difficulty keeping up with the pace of change. This results in being unprepared for changes and underperforming due to not identifying opportunities that may emerge. This is especially true for educators as they try to keep up with advances in technology. This discussion will share ways to strengthen institutional resilience and enhance institutional ability to identify opportunities, even when faced with the uncertainty of multiple possible futures. The presentation will employ a methodology grounded in strategic foresight that will introduce participants to exploring signals of change and developing scenarios related to technology and learning.

Cloud Security: Risks, threats, and challenges; Review - Oracle Cloud Security Application

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Tirumala Rao Chimpiri

Stony Brook University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Tech Beyond the Classroom

In this presentation, we discuss about the Cloud Security, and it's importance related to the enterprise. Next, we talk about the Risks, threats, and challenges, and mitigation. We also discuss the cloud security benefits and providers, and their market comparison. Lastly, review of Oracle Cloud Security Applications will be discussed in detail.


11:30 - 11:45 a.m. EDT - Break/ Networking

11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. EDT - Gold Sponsor - InSpace
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Building Belonging & Boosting Retention With Technology

Presenter: Dr. Christine Deacons - Head of Solutions at Pathify

Drawing from extensive experience and research, this session investigates the powerful impact of technology on amplifying student engagement and improving outcomes. Discover how leveraging the proper technology fosters community-building to enhance student success metrics, including reducing summer melt and impacting first-year retention. Attendees will learn how personalized, tech-driven strategies cultivate belonging, support diverse student groups and break the cycle of outdated practices, all while driving student success and persistence.

12:15-1:00 p.m. EDT - Break

1:00- 1:30 p.m. EDT - Session 3
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Leveraging Data to Empower Student Success

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Venkata Malisetty

California State University Northridge

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

This presentation explores data dashboards and intervention messaging solutions that leverage near real-time data from Canvas LMS to enhance student engagement and support. By identifying key engagement metrics, our system detects at-risk students and triggers personalized intervention messages. We will discuss the technical implementation, metrics for risk assessment, and the impact of real-time interventions on student success, providing insights for developing similar solutions in educational institutions.

We Tried to Create Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) Jeopardy and Failed, Here's Why. 

 

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Matt Kilbride

Kimberly Springfield

Montgomery County Community College

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today and Tomorrow

Artificial Intelligence

What happens when a couple of overconfident tech enthusiasts try to create a Jeopardy game that explores GAI susceptibility between different forms of assessment? What began as an expedition into GAI proofing transitioned into a summer long discussion into learning philosophy, skill development, workforce preparedness, and how those contribute to effective learning and human-centered pedagogy. Join us for this hilarious recount of our attempt and, regardless of your position on GAI, how our conclusions are invaluable for your classroom and student success. 

Enhancing Education: Transformative Initiatives Supporting Faculty and Students

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Tina Daigle

Elizabeth Glover

University of Maine Augusta

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Explore the transformative initiatives undertaken by the Faculty Development Center and Student Tech Hub at the University of Maine Augusta. The collaboration of these services support faculty, enabling them to focus on teaching rather than troubleshooting, while offering comprehensive assistance to students across all areas of their educational experience. Join us to learn ways to implement strategies  related to multi-faceted, hands-on, real-time support that enhances both teaching and learning. 

Digital Accessibility and Neurodiversity 

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Laura Trybus

University of Pittsburgh

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Tech Beyond the Classroom

Acessability & DEI

Digital accessibility is commonly associated with addressing the needs of individuals who are blind or deaf. However, the latest guidelines in WCAG 2.2 emphasize the importance of cognitive diversity. These guidelines not only support individuals with cognitive disabilities but also benefit anyone managing multiple tasks simultaneously. In this session, we will explore strategies to enhance the accessibility of your digital content, ensuring it is inclusive and user-friendly for those with cognitive diversity.

A Deep Dive into AI-Powered Scoring

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

John Swope

Curricu.me

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Artificial Intelligence

Can a Large Language Model (LLM) evaluate student submissions with the same accuracy as a human? Are there identifiable patterns in its performance? This presentation delves into a study where AI was utilized to assess medical students' patient interaction notes. The evaluation was analyzed based on distinct logical reasoning types (e.g., deductive, inductive, abductive), the specific LLM tool employed, and the nature of errors encountered. We conclude by identifying patterns and scenarios where AI scoring can be considered and where it should be avoided.

Future Learning: Drop the Grades; Engage With Badges

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Karen LaPlant


Zala Fashant

Metro State University

MinnState Colleges and Universities

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Learners spend a lot of energy focusing on increasing/maintaining their GPA. Upon graduation the GPA becomes an ancient artifact as GPAs are tied to education systems. What employers want to know is the knowledge and skills graduates possess. So, are grades still important? This session will explore the impact of grades and motivational aspects of Alternative Digital Credentials (ADCs) or badges for short. Join us in examining the value provided as institutions are using badges to increase opportunities for learners and communicating skill sets to employers. Some recent resources will be provided and participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences.

AI and Education: A Collaborative Approach to Innovation

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 
Gloria Carrasco
Christine Schoettle
Meredith Kahn

Holy Family University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Artificial Intelligence

This presentation explores the multifaceted integration of AI in education. A school of business administrator, a writing professor, and an instructional technologist share their experiences and insights on leveraging AI to enhance administrative efficiency, improve student writing, and optimize learning environments. Discover practical applications, potential challenges, and the future of AI in education.


1:30-1:45 p.m. EDT - Break/ Networking

1:45 - 2:15 p.m. EDT - Session 4
 
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AI-Driven Innovations in Education: Strategies to Prevent Instructor Burnout and Enhance Learning

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Joshua Eckenrode
Portia Mira, PhD

National University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Tech Beyond the Classroom

Education is evolving with technological advancements and changing learner needs. This session explores AI-assisted course development to prevent instructor burnout. Key strategies include flexible course designs and using free, open educational resources (OER). Our approach integrates OER and AI, enhancing course and assessment development while ensuring quality. Collaboration between Learning Experience Designers (LXD) and faculty has streamlined content creation. By emphasizing andragogy principles, we developed comprehensive materials and rigorously evaluated AI outputs. Attendees will learn how these strategies improve online learning and instructor well-being.

Using VR and Online Portfolios in a Balancing Wellness Class

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Terri Stiles




Stefani Abreu

Montgomery County Community College/Penn State Abington

Penn State Abington

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

KINES 85 is a course that combines Kinesiology and the arts to provide students a plethora of research on stress reduction within those mediums. We found using VR programs to decrease stress and portfolios to remind the students of stress reduction techniques they learned in class worked very well in maintaining student wellness.

Critical Thinking and AI are not at odds in higher education. Scaffolding both into undergraduate curriculums

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Amanda Jensen

University of Rhode Island

Foum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Artificial Intelligence

This session will provide a practical, yet theoretical perspective as a foundation for guided discuss surrounding an idea/model for scaffolding AI into the undergraduate curriculum, while intentionally addressing the important development of students critical thinking. The model is informed by the theories of Bruner’s spiral curriculum and a modified Bloom’s Taxonomy and the principles of higher education navigating two interconnected ideals: 1- developing critical thinkers and 2- preparing students for the workforce, which in the year 2024 includes the implementation of AI.

Using EPUB to Retire the PDF

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Darrin Andre Evans

Wake Technical Community College

Foum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today and Tomorrow

Acessability & DEI

Fixed layout PDF files are difficult to make accessible and non mobile responsive. Thanks to the free WordToEPUB application from the DAISY Consortium it is now quick and easy to make accessible EPUB files from structured accessible Word documents. This presentation will demonstrate both the advantages of EPUBS and using the free WordToEPUB application. 

Embracing Change: Technological Integration in Community College Mathematics

PRESENTERS Company TYPE OF SESSION 

Christopher Vaughen

Montgomery County Community College

Foum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

In this presentation, a professor with 25 years of experience teaching math at the community college level shares insights on navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of STEM education. The talk will explore the integration of technology across various aspects of teaching, focusing on three key areas: 1. Consistent Assessment Strategies: Implementing uniform assessment methods for both in-person and online courses, ensuring equity and effectiveness in diverse learning environments. 2. AI-Enhanced Learning: Leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance instruction in advanced mathematics courses, and guiding students in the ethical use of AI tools. 3. Digital Content Creation: Developing tailored questions for online homework across all mathematics levels, improving student engagement and learning outcomes. The presenter will also discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the shift towards asynchronous online learning at MCCC and the impact of AI on both student and faculty approaches to education. This talk aims to inspire educators to embrace technological advancements while maintaining pedagogical integrity in STEM fields.

Optimizing Group Dynamics: Designing Effective Group Projects in Online Asynchronous Classes

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Nicholas Brooks

Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Classroom of Today & Tomorrow

Group projects can enrich the student experience, simulate for students what it is like to work in a professional setting, and increase student-student engagement. It can be difficult, however, to design and implement effective group projects in online asynchronous courses. Drawing on the relevant literature and two years of experimenting with designing and implementing group projects in the online graduate programs of the Drexel University's Thomas R. Kline School of Law, I offer an interactive presentation on what I have found are key practices of designing, implementing, and evaluating group projects in the online asynchronous classroom. 

Harnessing AI for Innovative Course Design and Content Creation

PRESENTERS INSTITUTION TYPE OF SESSION 

Melissa Wells

National University

Forum/ Lecture Discussion

Enhancing the Student Experience

Artificial Intelligence

This session explores how AI is transforming course design and content creation, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in education. I'll cover practical applications of AI, including generating ALT text, building course content, writing learning outcomes, and creating images. By showcasing examples, educators, instructional designers, and academic leaders will gain actionable insights on integrating AI into course development. Whether you aim to streamline design, create personalized experiences, or explore the future of education, this presentation will equip you with the tools to leverage AI in your educational practices. 

2:15- 3:00 p.m. EDT - Wrap Up, Watch Recordings & Complete Session Surveys'