Online Learning Innovation Summit

The Online Learning Innovation Summit, hosted at the Bryant Conference Center in Tuscaloosa, provides a unique opportunity for educators to explore innovative teaching strategies in both onsite and online environments. This year's summit invites educators from Alabama and beyond to engage in discussions centered around the theme, Teach to Inspire, which highlights the importance of motivating students amidst a landscape filled with distractions. The summit serves as a collaborative space where educators can share ideas and learn from one another, fostering a community dedicated to enhancing teaching practices.The summit will feature keynotes from distinguished speakers, including Dr. Jen Golbeck, a leading computer scientist and professor at the University of Maryland, who specializes in artificial intelligence and social media's impact on education. Dr. Golbeck is known for her work on AI ethics and digital privacy and is a sought-after speaker on the societal implications of technology. Joining her is Dr. Todd Zakrajsek from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an expert in the science of learning and evidence-based teaching. Dr. Zakrajsek has significantly contributed to improving educational practices through his workshops and publications, including widely used texts in higher education.The summit will cover a range of topics aimed at enhancing student engagement and teaching effectiveness. Sessions include innovative course design, integrating technology in teaching, and utilizing emerging tools like generative AI to connect learning with students' future goals. Educators will have the chance to participate in discussions on practical strategies, such as fostering empathy in online learning, leveraging pop culture as a teaching tool, and enhancing mathematics learning through scaffolded assessments.Additional presentations will explore themes such as the role of reflection in student engagement, the efficacy of project-based learning, and the importance of instructor presence in online environments. Notable presentations include AI: If You Can't Beat it, Join it focusing on ethical AI integration in schools, Creating Meaningful Research Experiences using the ACRL Framework, and Say My Name: Using Names to Foster a Sense of Belonging, which emphasizes the personal connections in educational settings.The Online Learning Innovation Summit represents a commitment to advancing educational practices by bridging research with actionable strategies. With a dedicated focus on accessibility, the University of Alabama ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, welcoming all educators and providing necessary accommodations. This summit promises to be an enriching experience for educators looking to innovate and inspire in their teaching methodologies.