Creativity, open mindedness, and willingness to think outside the box are attributes for which online and professional continuing education are widely recognized. To effectively address the pervasive changes in demographics and workforce demands there is a growing need for innovation in program development designed to serve an increasingly diverse population of learners within professional, continuing, and online education. To this end the Program Planning and Implementation (PPI) Track provides sessions which reflect the creative thought and practice that have resulted in positive change not just within online and professional continuing units, but also within the larger campus and the community.
| 2:45 PM |
Concurrent Sessions I |
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Professional Skills and the Creative/Performing Arts: Innovating and Scaling Adult Learning in Higher Education and Beyond
Harbor 3 | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic |
Integrating creativity with the development of professional skills is an impactful way to enhance professional learning and foster personal growth. For artists, business skills are critical for sustainable careers; we’ll discuss how scalable blended learning practices create equitable access to career development while also offering a consistent learning experience, mentoring opportunities, and personalized learning pathways for higher education arts students. For leadership development, the increasing popularity of arts-based leadership development reflects a belief among a growing number of business leaders and practitioners that the arts are a powerful source for unleashing creativity and innovation by tapping into the right-brain thinking; we’ll explore opportunities for incorporating art into professional development and the exploration of art as a way to combine creativity and innovation.
- Melissa Mahan, The University of Texas at San Antonio
- Joe Montcalmo, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
- Zane Forshee, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
- Christina Manceor, The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
Reimagining Partnership: Cultivating Innovative Degree, Professional, and Executive Programs for the Modern Learner
Marina IV | Program Planning and Implementation | Foundational |
Modern learners need innovative programs tailored to meet their needs and experiences. Washington University in St. Louis and Bentley University take a human-connection approach to design, build, scale, and market learning opportunities in professional, executive, continuing, and online education, breaking silos by creating strategic partnerships on campus, in community, and abroad. Leaders will share their ongoing community-centric approach and tangible advice, fostering case-based, small-group conversations to ideate and apply to various contexts of the participants.
- Laura Aiken, Bentley University
- Liz Paushter, Bentley University
- Sean Armstrong, Washington University in St. Louis
- Haley Dolosic, Washington University in St. Louis
Roundtable Sessions
Harbor 1
Roundtables are table-based, small-group, guided discussion about a specific and timely topic, question, or issue. During one, 60-minute concurrent session, multiple Roundtable presenters concurrently share their ideas at one round table each, and promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective table attendees. Roundtables are designed to provide space and time to important but particularly nuanced topics which deserve attention, and as such, attendees are free to move between tables. The Roundtable session will have a moderator who will welcome attendees, invite them to find a topic/table of their choice, and watch the time, inviting presenters to host their discussions twice during the hour, to allow attendees to engage with up to two different topics.
Faculty Fellowship Models for Peer Learning
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
In this interactive workshop, we will share how you can adapt our faculty fellowship models developed through the Harvard Inclusive Teaching Institute. This is a learning community for faculty and teaching staff across Harvard University to connect about inclusive teaching. First, we will share an instructor-led professional learning model, where you can train instructors to lead professional learning workshops for other instructors. Second, we will share an instructor peer learning group model, where you can have instructors share inclusive teaching demos and scenarios and gain feedback from each other towards developing their teaching practice and making their classrooms more inclusive.
- Zahra Ahmed, Harvard University
- Karina Lin-Murphy, Harvard University
When the Product Is the Challenge: Shaping Academic Programs to Meet Students’ Preferences
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Aggressive enrollment goals are today’s default. Often, continuing and professional education leaders achieve these goals through savvy and creative marketing and recruitment efforts. In other cases, even the best tactics do not result in enrollments. Why? Today’s students have almost infinite choices, and as such, programs that do not align with their expectations will struggle. What are those expectations? We will explore what RNL’s latest surveys of graduate and online students tell us about formats, schedules, structures, costs, and timeliness and then discuss how seasoned CPE leaders have tackled these challenges to advance their programs and build buy-in for change.
- Daria LaTorre, Duquesne University
- Scott Jeffe, RNL
- Lisa Braverman, CUNY
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| 4:00 PM |
Concurrent Sessions II |
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Neurodivergent Learners (and Earners!) in Postsecondary Education
Commonwealth C | Program Planning & Implementation | Applied |
Neurodivergent diagnoses are increasingly common, due to our ability to diagnose these gifts earlier and better, which is great. But, what happens after K-12? How are we engaging with learners of all kinds, where they are, specifically in postsecondary education and the workforce? Are we prepared to consider neurodivergencies in our conceptualization of Today’s Learner? How are we pivoting to meet varied mental health needs? Does our inclusive posture include a wide understanding of the ways in which we all learn? What do colleges and universities need to know about recruiting and supporting this population?
- Lisa Klein Pearo, Harvard University
- Holly Tilbrook, Cambridge University
- Javier Motta-Mena, University of Texas at Austin
Addressing the Learner of the Future: Online Skills-based and Stackable Frameworks in Credit and Noncredit Programs
Harbor 3 | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tags: Policy, Diversity & Inclusion
This collaborative presentation focuses on how our two institutions met the demand for stackable, online learning frameworks to address the needs of learners in both the credit and non-credit space. UW developed Specializations as a skills-based programming approach to complement professional certificates. Taking a more sequential approach, UMN developed a stackable professional Master’s degree, embedding graduate-level certificates with a curriculum aligned with national certification. In this session learn more about how these programs model innovative and scalable credential pathways for learners to enter, advance, or pivot their careers in a rapidly evolving job market.
- Brian Gutierrez, University of Washington
- Stacey Fontes, University of Washington
- Ritu Saksena, University of Minnesota
- Michelle Iwen, University of Minnesota
Stop & Share Sessions
Harbor 1
Attendees are invited to stop in, mill about, and engage in these dynamic, demonstration-type conversations hosted by presenters ready to share ideas on a hot topic, best practice, or technological innovation.
Building Collaborations to Move Initiatives Forward
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Initiatives come and go in education. There are strategies, though, that can support implementation of an initiative that can lead to it being sustained. These strategies include, but are not limited to, identifying and building strategic collaborations, applying systems thinking, ensuring relevancy of the initiative, and applying an asset-based lens to the work. These strategies provide a foundation for developing and implementing an initiative that can be sustained through on-going support. In this session, we’ll explore these strategies through examples of campus-wide projects for which these strategies were applied that include a virtual reality implementation and a classroom design project.
- Laura Ramp, Penn State Harrisburg
- Sarah Kettell, Penn State Harrisburg
Innovation Unbound: The College of Professional and Continuing Studies Case Study
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Discover how innovation can turn visionary ideas into impactful change as we unveil the case study of Mississippi State University's College of Professional and Continuing Studies (CPCS). This presentation offers insights into the creation of CPCS, showcasing its dynamic role as an academic home for practical programs, tailored to adult learners' needs. Explore the process of ideation and implementation, equipping you with the tools to foster innovation in your institution. Join us to learn how innovative thinking can shape the future of online and professional continuing education, empowering you to drive meaningful change.
- Susan Seal, Mississippi State University
- Marian Chancellor, Mississippi State University
Birthing a Strategy for Competency-Based, Transdisciplinary Programming to Upskill Workers in our AI World: Design, Implement and Deliver
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Policy
A “call to action” to forge a proactive strategy where competency-based CE units and their practitioner-expert educators team up with employers to prepare workers to thrive over the next five years in our AI world. Employers are calling for workers to be simultaneously upskilled in AI technical competencies and power skills (a.k.a. soft skills) to better meet organizational needs. This highly interactive session takes the form of role-playing to start a dialogue centered on strategies to design innovative non-credit, competency-based, multidisciplinary programming to meet the needs of an employer searching for AI competent employees equipped with power skills.
- Anne-Marie Brinsmead, Toronto Metropolitan University
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| 8:15 AM |
Concurrent Sessions III |
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Faculty-Led Transformation: How Generative AI is Reshaping Educational Assessment
Harbor 1 | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: AI
This talk explores the ongoing research on generative AI's impact on higher education assessment practices. It aims to understand how generative AI influences faculty's assignment thinking and modifications. We discuss research methods and findings, showcasing how AI disrupts traditional course design.
- Brad Wheeler, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
- Sharon Kearney, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Training the Trainers: Practical Tools to Support SMEs
Harbor 2 | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Subject matter experts are critical to the success of online and alternative credential programs. But often, their experience with instruction is limited. This session will provide practical tools and time tested examples to identify, onboard, train, and support SMEs in instruction online and alternative credential programs. Topics covered will include identifying and evaluating subject matter experts for instruction, contracting, and onboarding, and supporting the expert through curriculum development and delivery. Examples of course outlines, course design checklists, contract language, and training modules will be provided.
- Kirsten Zoller, Kansas State University
- Lisa Shappee, Kansas State University
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| 9:30 AM |
Concurrent Sessions IV |
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Post Secondary Inclusion Programs for Adults with Disabilities: Pathways to Success
Marina IV | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Penn State University and Temple University have developed and currently deliver specialized programs targeting recent high school graduates who have been identified with an intellectual disability. Explore how these programs were developed, the services offered and the challenges and benefits each institution has experienced. Penn State has three different programs resulting in a college experience, life skills training, job shadowing and dorm living. Temple University offers a 4 year program fully embedding the students into student life on campus in addition to preparing the students for life beyond the college years.
- Andrea Tessier, Penn State University
- Cheryl Torsney, Temple University
- Nicole Moschberger, Penn State University
- Linda Rhen, Penn State University
Roundtable Sessions
Harbor 1
Roundtables are table-based, small-group, guided discussion about a specific and timely topic, question, or issue. During one, 60-minute concurrent session, multiple Roundtable presenters concurrently share their ideas at one round table each, and promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective table attendees. Roundtables are designed to provide space and time to important but particularly nuanced topics which deserve attention, and as such, attendees are free to move between tables. The Roundtable session will have a moderator who will welcome attendees, invite them to find a topic/table of their choice, and watch the time, inviting presenters to host their discussions twice during the hour, to allow attendees to engage with up to two different topics.
Enhancing Online Certificate Programs: A Reflective Approach to Aquaculture Course Development
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Join our discussion about creating transformative online certificate programs! We’ll explore how we used course development and redesign through reflective methodology to enhance aquaculture education's effectiveness. Aquaculture, spanning biology, engineering, economics, and environmental science, is ideal for online learning, especially for remote regions lacking formal education access. Our online curriculum empowers aquaculturists worldwide to boost yields and income. We've thoroughly examined curriculum design, instructional strategies, and assessment methods to meet their unique needs. With engaging, interactive content and Spanish-language translation, we extended global access. Join our discussions on applying these principles for online certificate programs.
- Sydney Bassett, Auburn University
Fostering a Community of Experts in Professional Education
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Learn fun, engaging, and proven activities that support learners and make big impacts on their experience while simultaneously promoting connection and meaning with professional contributors in noncredit programming.
- Miriam Doyle, University of Washington
- Stacey Fontes, University of Washington
Adapting Residential Graduate Education in an Alternative Credential World
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Much of the focus on credential innovation and program delivery is centered within continuing and professional educational units. But what impact is the alternative credential market having on residential graduate program design? In this roundtable, the facilitators will discuss strategies for how traditional graduate education programs are “future proofing” and evolving their program portfolios. Discussion will include success stories and failed ventures alike- inviting conversation from participants on how to strategically build viable professional education programs (certificates, degrees) with campus and community stakeholders. In-person, hybrid, and online modality examples will be shared
- Rebecca Petersen, Tufts University
- Sarah Herchel, Tufts University
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: A Collaborative Approach to Developing High Quality OER
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic |
As the demand for open educational resources (OER) intensifies, teaching-learning centers seek structured guidance to transform faculty enthusiasm into tangible results. This presentation unveils how instructional designers and librarians synergize to champion faculty-driven OER projects. We'll showcase our model, spotlighting a series of digital open-access textbooks tailored for the arts sector. Specifically, these resources aim to arm music graduates with pivotal career skills while catering to established artists. Recognizing varying institutional capacities, we'll equip participants with a tailored needs assessment toolkit to bridge knowledge and resource gaps. The session promises strategies for seamless collaboration, OER creation, and effective dissemination.
- Zane Forshee, Johns Hopkins University
- Valerie Hartman, Johns Hopkins University
Soul Care for the Online and Professional Continuing Education Leader and Community: A Wellness Path
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Diversity & Inclusion
Drawing from their theological backgrounds and extensive experience, Novak and John will share practical strategies that address leaders' unique challenges in online and professional continuing education. Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of self-care's significance for individual leaders and the broader educational community. By exploring methods to refresh and recharge, this session aims to equip higher education leaders with tools to cultivate resilience, foster creativity, and enhance overall well-being. This session offers a promising platform for attendees to explore innovative ways of nurturing the soul and fostering a healthier, values-driven academic environment.
- Richard Novak, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- Shino John, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
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| 12:15 PM |
Boxed Lunch Pickup for Network Meetings |
| 12:30 PM |
Network Lunch Meetings and Awards Presentations |
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- Program Planning and Implementation (Harbor 3)
Award Presentation | Outstanding Program: Noncredit Award
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| 2:00 PM |
Concurrent Sessions V |
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Transforming Higher Education: Affordable Degrees at Scale
Marina I | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the pursuit of affordable higher education is more crucial than ever. Since 2016, Georgia Tech Professional Education has hosted the Affordable Degrees-at-Scale Symposium, the preeminent event for higher education leaders to engage in intensive conversations on the strategies, trends, and challenges associated with scaled online degree programs. This session is designed to bring together the growing community of institutions that are interested in, and offering such degrees, to discuss the outcomes and recommendations of the symposium and to provide an opportunity to exchange perspectives and share knowledge.
- Warren Goetzel, Georgia Institute of Technology
- David Joyner, Georgia Institute of Technology
Today, Tomorrow, or the Future: Postsecondary Institutions' Response to Workforce Needs
Commonwealth AB | Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Higher Education is seeing a student body shift (e.g., adult learners) caused by various demographic developments (e.g., aging of the population and decreasing fertility rates resulting in lower birth rates). At the same time, we see a rapidly changing labor market and an accelerating speed of changing job demands caused by innovation and automation technologies. Drawing on work at a few postsecondary institutions, the presentors will share strategies to develop and best prepare students for the current and future workforce. Additionally, the presenters will highlight how partnerships between post-secondary education and employers create earn-and-learn pathways that gives credit for on-the-job work, focused particularly on new college majority learners.
- Marjaneh Gilpatrick, Northern Arizona University
- Lynda Wilson, California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Michael Pierick, University of California, Merced
- Douglas Harrison, New York University
- Sandra von Doetinchem, Eduworks Corporation
Stop & Share Sessions
Harbor 1
Attendees are invited to stop in, mill about, and engage in these dynamic, demonstration-type conversations hosted by presenters ready to share ideas on a hot topic, best practice, or technological innovation.
Under the Hood: Tactical Advice for Program Development, from Initial Research to Implementation
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied |
Let us walk you through every phase of a new program development, from ideation and market research, to viability assessments, to launch, design, marketing and measuring success. Come learn how to align on and execute each phase with experts who do it every day for repeatable program growth.
- Asim Ali, Auburn University
- Joe Brock, Northeastern University
- Meni Sarris, Spur Education Group
Preparing to Teach Online: From Learner to Teacher
Program Planning and Implementation | Applied | Tag: Faculty
Learning and teaching online is a growing field. Faculty members are interested in participating but need more knowledge. Teaching and Learning with Technology at Rutgers has offered an Online Teaching Certificate (OTC) Program that attracts Rutgers and non-Rutgers instructors for a few years. In this presentation, we will provide an overview of the design of the OTC program, highlighting one course in detail, and share our experience and learned lessons.
- Natalia Kouraeva, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
- Dena Novak, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Change Is Great, But You Go First: Leverage the Power of Strategic Partnerships To Catalyze Change
Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Change is great. Change is hard. Change is a constant in higher education, and it can be both challenging and rewarding. But you don't have to face it alone. Join us for an insightful session where we delve into the transformative journey of Chico State's PCE unit and Everspring, exploring how their strategic partnership is reshaping their campus. Join our presenters as they delve into the strategic partnership that paved the way for advocating for and positioning the value and impact of innovative approaches.
- Ann Nikolai, California State University, Chico
- Sarah Smith, Everspring
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| 3:30 PM |
Concurrent Sessions VI - Workshops |
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Workshops utlize extended time (70 min) to provide deep dives for participants to be actively, tangibly engaged in their own learning via collaboration and hands-on interaction.
If You Build It, Will They Come? Rethinking the Academic Portfolio in Times of Change
Burroughs | Program Planning and Implementation | Strategic |
Our session promises to explore the dynamic field of academic and digital portfolio management. Learn how to fuse traditional and innovative learning methods to offer enriched experiences to students and reach new learner segments. Uncover the power of data in making informed educational decisions, and grasp the importance of identifying new sectors that increase access and opportunity for learners. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and strategies that could reshape your educational approach and significantly enhance your portfolio of offerings.
- Wendy Colby, Boston University
- Bettyjo Bouchey, University of Vermont
- Sara Marcketti, Iowa State University
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| 4:45 PM |
Ask Me Anything Lounges |
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Harbor 1
In these optional, small-group conversations, leaders will host informal, table-based, come-and-go discussions around some of the most pressing topics (and conundra!) facing UPCEAns today, such as "Change Management;" "Leading in the Age of AI;” “Launching Micro-credentials;” and more. Come and chat, find your peoples, make plans for dinner, or simply meet new friends. |
