The UPCEA eDesign Collaborative (eDC) Network, serves higher education instructional design teams (instructional designers, multimedia developers and team administrators) in higher education seeking networking and professional development. The eDC has three main objectives: 1) networking, 2) professional development, and 3) research and publication. Sessions in this track will explore interdepartmental collaboration, faculty development and innovation, accessibility and inclusiveness in course design, models for supporting learning continuity in the face of disruption, and more.
| 2:45 PM |
Concurrent Session I |
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Innovating Faculty Development: Simulations and AI Hands-on Workshops
Plaza Ballroom D | eDesign Collaborative | Applied | Tag: Faculty, Graduate Education
In this collaborative presentation, Purdue University and Texas A&M University will showcase their innovative approaches to faculty development in the digital age. Purdue University will share their hands-on workshops designed to help faculty integrate generative AI tools into their teaching. Using a flexible "workshop recipe," Purdue empowers educators to enhance digital literacy and incorporate AI-driven methods into their courses. Attendees will gain practical templates and strategies for delivering similar AI-focused workshops. Texas A&M University will present their simulation-based model for preparing faculty to teach online. By immersing participants in the student experience, this approach emphasizes active learning, best practices in course design, and strategies for creating engaging, student-centered courses. Together, these approaches demonstrate how integrating generative AI and simulation-based learning can transform faculty development, equipping educators with the skills and confidence to thrive in the evolving landscape of online education.
- Jennifer Ferrara, Texas A&M University
- Sally Hughes, Texas A&M University
- April Wolf, Purdue University
- Molly Kremer, Purdue University
- Dan Blickensderfer, Purdue University
- Jenny Monarch McGuire, Purdue University
- Moderator: Joana Jebsen, LearningMate
Roundtable Presentations #1 (Plaza Ballroom BCEF)
In this session, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with up to two different topics during small-group, 30-minute, table-based guided discussion around a specific and timely topic, question, or issue. Roundtables are designed to provide space and time to important but particularly nuanced topics which deserve attention, and presenters will promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective table’s attendees.
Moderator: Christa Payne, Tulane University
Entering the Map: Immersive Experiences and Bringing Content to Life
eDesign Collaborative | Foundational | Tag: Learner Access
Explore the design and implementation of immersive experiences in the course "Inequitable Urbanism: Montgomery," which uses interdisciplinary collaboration to tackle urban planning and social injustice. This roundtable discussion will showcase how these immersive modules bridge theory and practice, connecting academic knowledge to real-world applications. Gain insights into best practices for creating engaging online content, learn practical strategies, and discover the potential of engaged scholarship. This session is relevant for a wide range of institutions and learners, providing actionable takeaways to enhance teaching and course design.
- Megan Slatton, Auburn University
- Shawndra Bowers, Auburn University
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| 4:00 PM |
Concurrent Session II |
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Learning Analytics in Action: Case Studies and Strategies from Colorado State University and Auburn University
Governor's Square 17 | eDesign Collaborative | Applied | Tag: Learner Access, Policy
In this session, panelists from varied institutions will compare their approaches to learning analytics. The first half will cover their data collection methods, student feedback integration, and course improvement strategies through case studies. The second half will be an interactive, solutions-focused Q&A, moderated to encourage participant engagement. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on effectively using learning analytics to enhance educational practices at their institution.
- Christy Jersin Woods, Colorado State University
- Shawndra Bowers, Auburn University
- Jesse Thompson, Colorado State University
- Allie Brandriet, Auburn University
- Ji’ Lynda Brown, Colorado State University
- Moderator: Asim Ali, Auburn University
Stop & Share Presentations #1 (Plaza Ballroom BCEF)
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.
Moderator: Moderator: April Wolf, Purdue University
Scaling Development of Affordable Health Sciences Course Materials across State Systems
eDesign Collaborative | Strategic | Tag: Faculty
Learn how two state systems came together to coordinate and scale their efforts to advance affordable and accessible health sciences education through Open Education Resource development and Open Pedagogy training.
- Heather McCullough, University of North Carolina System
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| 8:15 AM |
Concurrent Sessions III |
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Integrating and Experimenting with AI in Instructional Design: Empowering Teams and Crafting Learner-Centric Assessments
Governor's Square 15 | eDesign Collaborative | Strategic | Tag: Policy, Faculty
Explore dual strategies for integrating AI in instructional design: a team-focused model that fosters internal innovation and a learner-centered approach that promotes critical thinking through AI-enhanced assessments. Learn how to empower instructional design teams to experiment with AI tools and scale successful practices, while also creating student-centric assessments that emphasize ethical and responsible use of AI. Gain insights into balancing standardization with flexibility and fostering a culture of innovation that benefits both teams and students. Leave inspired to implement these strategies to advance instructional design and learner outcomes.
- Carly Papenberg, NYU
- Tiffany Charbonier, NYU
- Cody Connor, Purdue University
- Eric de Araujo, Purdue University
- Moderator: Melissa Loble, Instructure
Industry Insights (Governor's Square 14)
Get ready for a rapid-fire session of game-changing ideas, fresh insights, and cutting-edge solutions. Industry Insights brings together UPCEA’s top corporate partners for a fast-paced series of short, dynamic presentations designed to spark innovation and drive action. Each speaker will deliver a high-impact introduction to a key idea, challenge, solution, or must-know product shaping online and professional continuing education. No matter your role or institution, this session will fuel your knowledge and move your institution forward.
Moderator: Amrit Ahluwalia, Western University
The Urgent Case for AI Literacy
eDesign Collaborative | Tag: Faculty
Resources and strategies for closing the widening AI literacy gap between educators and students and help train educators for using AI in the classroom. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of what AI Literacy is and how to get started in providing professional development for educators and instructional designers.
Ryan Lufkin, Instructure |
| 9:30 AM |
Concurrent Sessions IV |
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Instructional Design State of the Union
Governor's Square 17 | eDesign Collaborative | Strategic
Join us for an engaging session that promises to inspire and inform instructional design leaders and educators alike. Our discussion will include AI and machine learning, the integration of AI tools in creating personalized learning paths and ethical considerations surrounding their use, as well as remote and hybrid teams, learning analytics, and balancing the benefits of data collection with the need to protect student privacy.
- Camille Funk, Utah Valley University
- Jennifer Ferrara, Texas A&M University
- Reba-Anna Lee, Northwestern University
- Ryan Anderson, University of Wisconsin
- Shawndra Bowers, Auburn University
- Moderator: John McKenzie, University of North Texas Health Center
Roundtable Presentations #2 (Plaza Ballroom BCEF)
In this session, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with up to two different topics during small-group, 30-minute, table-based guided discussion around a specific and timely topic, question, or issue. Roundtables are designed to provide space and time to important but particularly nuanced topics which deserve attention, and presenters will promote the sharing of thoughts, solutions, and questions among their respective table’s attendees.
Moderator: Laurel Hogue, University of Central Missouri
How to Get to “Yes, Let’s Work Together:” Instructional Designers and Faculty Collaboration
eDesign Collaborative | Applied | Tag: Learner Access, Faculty, Graduate Education
This roundtable discussion will emphasize the importance of trust, rapport, and collaboration in enhancing the design process and course quality. Instructional designers and faculty will explore effective practices and innovative strategies for building strong partnerships. The session will cover the structure of collaborative relationships, supports and barriers to collaboration, and the rationale behind forming alliances. Participants will gain practical strategies for fostering collaboration and leave with tailored approaches and valuable insights to apply in their work environments.
- Natalia Kouraeva, Rutgers University
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| 12:30 PM |
Network Lunch Meetings and Awards Presentations |
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Online Administration/eDesign Collaborative (Plaza Ballroom D)
Award Presentation: UPCEA Award for Strategic Innovation in Online Education
Moderator: Kristlyn Thomas, Loyola University Chicago
Sponsored by ed2go
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| 2:00 PM |
Concurrent Sessions V |
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Exploring a Continuum of Online Education Development Models: A Panel Session Comparing In-House Collaborative Course Design, Faculty Support Models, and OPM Transitions
Plaza Ballroom D | eDesign Collaborative | Applied | Tag: Learner Access, Faculty, Graduate Education
Online education course development models can be arranged on a continuum of approaches to facilitate discussion of differences and commonalities. Whether expanding an online education unit or transitioning from an external online program management (OPM) vendor into an in-house development model, a university must determine the scope and approach they wish to implement. This session includes perspectives from three universities sharing their experiences and models. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of various online educational development models, including their advantages, challenges, and insights into which approach best aligns with their institution's needs and goals.
- Heidi Blair, Augusta University
- Julia Fuller, Kennesaw State University
- Nathaly Gal, Baylor University
- Ebun Ebunlomo, Baylor University
- Molly Caldera, Baylor University
- Moderator: Marc Austin, Augusta University
Stop & Share Presentations #2 (Plaza Ballroom BCEF)
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.
Moderator: Amber O'Casey, Alamo Colleges District
From Challenge to Solution: Instructional Design with XR Tools to Facilitate Complex Visualization in Higher Ed
eDesign Collaborative | Foundational
Participants will explore web-based extended reality (XR) in education through an interactive organic chemistry eLearning demonstration. Participants will engage in a 2D to 3D visualization challenge, experiencing student difficulties and XR's advantages. Presenters will share insights into development and present student feedback highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. Conversations will focus on team-focused XR tool creation and implications for revolutionizing spatial learning across disciplines. Attendees can expect discussion based on presenters' insights and engagement with the XR interactives.
- Allie Brandriet, Auburn University
- Ali Sattari, Auburn University
Enhancing Literacy Instruction with an AI-Powered Writing Coach
eDesign Collaborative | Applied | Tag: Faculty
The University of North Texas has started integrating an AI-driven platform designed to support student writing. In a pilot exploration, up to 30 tutors from the campus Writing Center reflected on how the interface impacted their writing and coaching experience. The study aimed to understand how the platform benefits students who do not typically seek assistance at the Writing Center. Tutors evaluated existing essays using the tool’s comment functionality and wrote within the platform. Challenges in assisting non-native English speakers are anticipated, and the tutors appear to endorse support mechanisms that combine the AI tool with human/educator intervention.
- Tania Heap, University of North Texas
- Adam Fein, University of North Texas
- Benjamin Brand, University of North Texas
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| 3:30 PM |
Concurrent Sessions VI: Workshops |
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Practical Applications of AI in Higher Education: A Hands-On Workshop
Plaza Ballroom A | eDesign Collaborative | Foundational | Tag: Learner Access, Policy, Faculty, Graduate Education
Through demonstrations and hands-on activities this workshop will demonstrate practical applications of AI in instruction, training, and program design; share experiences using AI tools at three different curriculum design levels, and guide participants to relevant AI tools for further exploration. The workshop is divided into three segments, each providing AI integration case studies and success stories with practical examples, hands-on practice, and interactive discussion. Workshop concludes with open Q&A, summary of key takeaways, and contact information for future networking. Participants will also receive a comprehensive list of AI tools and resources discussed during the workshop.
- Alicia Johnson, Virginia Tech
- Eunice Ofori, Tulane University
- Miguel (Miko) Nino, Rhode Island College
- Moderator: Clayton Dean, Ziplines Education
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