Join this interactive session on GPT Smashing, a method that blends AI tools to create dynamic, personalized science and engineering learning experiences. Experience how it integrates text, diagrams, simulations, and blueprints to make complex content engaging and comprehensible for educators. Discover its impact through examination of the findings of a research study conducted in a science education course, highlighting its potential for innovative, accessible instruction.
This session presents a USF case study that transformed a text-heavy Canvas course into an engaging, QM-aligned experience using GenAI and accessible design tools. Attendees will gain simple strategies for dynamic instructional material enhancement, practical methods to boost learner engagement with refreshed visual design, and tips on selecting appropriate GenAI tools to efficiently improve course quality. Ideal for instructional designers with limited resources or those new to implementing AI in course design.
In this session, we expand the scope of accessibility by examining online course design to accommodate neurodivergent learners. Challenges such as sensory overload and executive functioning difficulties will be addressed. We will also consider strategies such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), flexible engagement, and tools for time management. Key goals include fostering a sense of belonging, amplifying student voices, and collaborating with stakeholders. This session aims to promote equity and improve learning outcomes for all learners.
This session introduces the CLEAR Framework to help faculty and instructional designers create accessible, high-quality courses aligned with QM Standard 8 and WCAG 2.2. Participants will engage in active learning activities to evaluate course accessibility, apply CLEAR principles, and develop an action plan for improvement. Key takeaways include practical strategies for captioning, logical layout, readability, alt text, and responsive design to ensure inclusive learning.
Using QM Standards helps to ensure online courses are aligned, accessible, and engaging, leading to improved student success. We will explore the Three A’s—Alignment, Accessibility, and Active Learning—using real-world examples. Participants will select QM Standards that promote learner engagement and support, identify key elements of successful real-world course transformations, and create a Quick-Start Plan for course redesign, leaving with actionable strategies for learner-centered improvement.
Our small institution is working to certify 50+ courses by Fall 2026. Due to early challenges of course consistency, we implemented a collaborative development process, faculty training, & templates, that improved online courses. This presentation will showcase scalability with strategies for achieving online course consistency in resource-limited institutions. Attendees will identify cooperative approaches & processes and view useful tools & templates to achieve QM course reviews.
Discover how the College of Interdisciplinary and Continuing Studies uses the Quality Matters (QM) Rubric to revamp core courses through collaborative feedback, comprehensive student support, and course design. Learn actionable strategies for integrating support systems, aligning course content, and enhancing engagement to foster holistic learner success across academic and personal development.
While accessibility is core to quality course reviews, providing solutions to address digital accessibility issues is a challenge for many institutions. We will share successes and challenges experienced while strategically aligning digital accessibility, faculty development, and quality course reviews. Attendees will explore strategies and resources we implemented and will be invited to share their challenges and successes.
How can teacher professional development drive student success in virtual schools? This session shares how North Carolina Virtual Public School embedded SEL into educator learning, centering self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Discover how empowering teachers with these competencies builds more connected, supportive, and effective virtual classrooms.
This presentation reports on a research-based, piloted program to connect students internationally and support social development, cultural understanding and communication for pre adolescents co identified as gifted and ASD.
