October – All Workshops
10/1 Microsoft PowerPoint Essentials
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: Inclusive Classrooms, Engaged Students
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: How to Update your Career/Talent Profile in Workday
10/4 Using Graphic Organizers to Enhance Learning
10/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
10/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
10/4 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
10/4 Searching for Harmony between AI and Teaching and Learning
10/8 Excel Open Lab: Time-saving Functions
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Preparing for Management
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Overview of Learning and Development Pathways
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Digital Marketing with Adobe InDesign
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: How to Update your Career/Talent Profile in Workday
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Using deliberative dialogues to enhance action planning and communication
10/8 Turn Minutes into Mastery with Microlearning
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Influencing Positivity
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Creating Engaging Digital Media with Adobe Express
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Problem-Solving Styles – Adaptors, Innovators and Culture
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Creating Accessible Documents and Presentations
10/8 Task Management: Who Does What?
10/8 ELITE After Dark: Essential Microsoft Teams Tips & Tricks
10/8 ELITE After Dark: Transform Your Teaching: A Comprehensive Guide to Flipped Learning
10/10 ELITE After Dark: Using Adobe Express for Alternative Student Projects
10/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
10/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
10/11 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
10/15 Microsoft Teams Essentials
10/16 Teach Them to Learn: Using Spaced Practice for More Effective Learning
10/18 Messaging Best Practices in Blackboard Learn Ultra
10/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
10/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
10/21 Online Teaching Training
10/22 Microsoft Word Essentials Plus
10/25 Accessibility in Blackboard Learn Ultra
10/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
10/29 Excel Open Lab: Conditional Formatting & Data Validation
10/29 Pedagogical Discussion # 2: Designing AI-Enhanced Learning Experiences
10/30 Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning
10/30 Online Teaching Training – Fall II 2024
10/1 Microsoft PowerPoint Essentials
Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on, small-group workshop will provide a solid foundation in the basic use of Microsoft PowerPoint. Whether you want an overview of the basics, are looking to become more efficient, or have used PowerPoint for years and just want to update your knowledge of newer features, this course is for you. Even experienced users can benefit from valuable tips, tricks, and timesavers along the way.
The workshop will be conducted via Zoom. To fully participate, participants should be able to access both the desktop (installed) and web versions of Word. We also recommend that you join the workshop from a computer with two monitors or from two side-by-side devices so you can view your instructor’s screen while completing the exercises.
Visit the Microsoft Essentials website for a full list of the functions covered in this workshop and for more details on the technology required to participate.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Navigate and customize the latest PowerPoint interfaces of both the web and desktop
- Perform basic workplace tasks, including creating, saving, editing, formatting, and polishing PowerPoint presentations
- Identify and use newer features of PowerPoint, including cloud-based collaboration, modern templates, Designer, transitions, image editing, and the Accessibility checker
- Organize, present, and print presentations
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: Inclusive Classrooms, Engaged Students
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Instructor: Adam Reed
Description:
Tailored for educators, this session will combine an overview of the UDC and small group discussions about strategies for creating inclusive classrooms. You’ll walk away with ideas for easy ways to apply universal design principles to the work you’re already doing, and an understanding of how the UDC can support you this term and beyond. Join to learn how universal design strategies can add to your classroom toolkit and help make your classroom a more inclusive place.
Learning Outcomes:
Connect the CAST UDL 3.0 guidelines with specific classroom strategies to foster an inclusive learning environment. Collaborate with peers to share and refine ideas for implementing UDL principles in your teaching practice.
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: How to Update your Career/Talent Profile in Workday
Time: 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Instructor: Banessa Silva, Scot Brown
Description:
In this interactive 30-minute session, participants will learn how to effectively update their career and talent profiles in Workday. The workshop will cover key aspects such as adding education, skills, and experience, which are essential for career development and internal mobility. Through a combination of live demonstrations, hands-on practice, and expert guidance, attendees will gain the skills needed to maintain their profiles, making them more visible for future opportunities within the organization. The session will also cover best practices for profile management and offer practical tips to enhance their professional growth.
Participants will leave the session with a clear understanding of how to navigate and update their profiles in Workday and the importance of keeping this information current for professional development, workforce planning, and career growth.
Measurable Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the importance of keeping Workday profiles updated for career and organizational benefits.
- Learn how to navigate Workday to update education, skills, and experience sections.
- Gain practical experience by updating their profiles with real-time support.
- Discover best practices for managing profiles to enhance career growth opportunities.
- This class is designed for employees looking to manage their professional information more effectively in Workday and to align their profiles with long-term career goals.
10/4 Using Graphic Organizers to Enhance Learning
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Instructor: Laurent Ndeze
Description:
Graphic organizers are visual displays of information showing the relationships between content elements such as facts, concepts, and procedures (Clark & Mayer, 2003, p. 54). Graphic organizers make it easier for learners to comprehend and internalize new material. When effectively applied, graphic organizers make it more convenient for the instructor to deliver the material including the integration of interactive learning activities. In this workshop, we will discuss different types of graphic organizers and how your teaching process.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Summarize lesson or course content.
- Connect prior learning to new material.
- Present a visual representation of a process or procedure.
- Identify at least two or three graphic organizers that are most relevant or applicable to the course that they teach.
10/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructor: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
This session covers the basics of Blackboard Learn Ultra, from the interface and navigation to best practices when building a new course.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Navigate the Blackboard Learn Ultra environment.
- Identify key features of the Blackboard Learn Ultra interface.
- Explain how consistent course navigation can support student learning.
10/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
The MC Learn Ultra transition team invites you to join us virtually for office hours. We are here for you to answer questions and connect you to resources around MC’s transition to Blackboard Learn Ultra. In person options are also available (separate signup in Workday). Please ensure you have access to a development course in Blackboard Ultra before attending office hours.
Click here for more information
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about this transition
10/4 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
This session introduces the key things instructors need to know when converting an existing course from Blackboard Learn Original into Blackboard Learn Ultra.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the differences between Original and Ultra Courses.
- Examine features unique or common to Original and Ultra Courses
- Explain the value of course preparation for conversion.
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Instructor: Gloria Barron
Description:
Improve the accessibility of your documents using Microsoft 365’s powerful built-in tools. This session will guide you through best practices for designing accessible content and utilizing features like Accessibility Checker, Immersive Reader, and Dictation to make your documents inclusive for all users. You’ll also discover how to implement structured headers and create a table of contents.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, you’ll be equipped to create documents that meet accessibility standards, enhancing the experience for students with disabilities and diverse learning preferences.
10/4 First Faculty Fridays: Using Deliberative Dialogues to Support Constructive Disagreement in Classes
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Instructor: Jennifer Haydel
Description:
Deliberative dialogues are structured discussions focused on concrete policies and challenges; the dialogue format allows participants to think through a problem together so that they emerge from the discussion with a better understanding of differences and commonalities. Since these dialogues focus on specific policies and actions, they teach and model positive and constructive exploration of disagreement. Attendees at this workshop will learn how to facilitate deliberative dialogues and will receive deliberative dialogue resources that can be adapted to a variety of classes. The workshop will also provide guidance on techniques for adapting the deliberative dialogue structure to multiple teaching modalities. While the primary focus will be on incorporating deliberative dialogues in classes, the model is also a useful form of action planning for a variety of employee groups.
Measurable Learning Outcomes:
Participants will be able to:
1) Explain the deliberative dialogue model.
2) Articulate a plan for implementing a deliberative dialogue with students or colleagues.
3) Analyze strengths and weaknesses of the deliberative dialogue model based on teaching and/or workplace goals.
10/4 Searching for Harmony between AI and Teaching and Learning
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
Whether you view Artificial Intelligence as a disruptive nuisance or a useful tool, it has likely impacted your teaching in some way. So how do we manage the prevalence (and use) of AI tools while promoting learning in the different disciplines? In this session, we will reflect on the different ways AI has impacted learning and explore ways to cultivate authentic learning alongside AI-literacy.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify at least one course opportunity to address AI literacy
- Evaluate the suggestions presented to support creation of authentic learning tasks that align with industry expectations of AI use
10/4 HyFlex Course Design
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Tom Cantu
Description:
Imagine a fresh approach to instruction that increases the motivation to learn, engages students, and results in academic success – that’s HyFlex learning. HyFlex learning is designed to maximize flexibility for students to attend and participate in classes remotely or in person. This series offers an opportunity to explore a collaborative approach to HyFlex course design to educate, engage, and empower learners at Montgomery College.
This cohort experience meets three times on Fridays from 2-4 pm on Sept. 27, Oct. 4, Oct. 11. Participants should attend all three sessions to learn to operate a HyFlex classroom and work in small groups to plan and deliver a HyFlex lesson.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explore a research-based instructional model that allows for a gradual release of responsibility from the instructor to teams, to individual students
- Evaluate a collaborative approach to HyFlex instruction
- Design and develop a HyFlex lesson for future implementation
- Create a community of practice to support HyFlex teaching and learning at MC.
10/8 Excel Open Lab: Time-saving Functions
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Instructor: Anna Donohoe
Description:
This open lab session will introduce a set of specific features and tasks (listed below) in the first half of our time together. The second half is structured as open office hours for participants to practice using the skills introduced and/or ask questions about anything related to Microsoft Excel.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Automatically process data using built-in functions: Flash Fill, Remove Duplicates
- Efficiently enter pattern-based information using the Fill Handle
- Format data as a Table to easily sort and filter based on a range of criteria
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Preparing for Management
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Instructor: Dwayne Henry
Description:
For those aspiring to leadership roles, learn foundational management skills to support your professional development journey.
Outcomes
- Identify behaviors and characteristics that get you noticed
- Discover the qualities and abilities required for effective leadership and management
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of management
- Recognize the challenges new managers face as well as ways to mitigate them
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Overview of Learning and Development Pathways
Time: 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM
Instructor: Richard Forrest
Description:
The L&D Pathway programs offered in FY25 help boost business, communication, and leadership skills to help MC employees work with our colleagues, teams, and clients effectively. Throughout the year, pathway offerings maximize the strengths needed to achieve a greater impact in the work we do now and aspire for the future.
Join this 30-minute speed session to understand what L&D pathway programs interest you and how changes to earning a pathway certificate include new levels of career support.
Session objectives:
- Examine learning and development pathway classes for FY25
- Increased ability to plan for L&D classes on Super Tuesdays
- Appreciate the range of flexible, synchronous in-person, digital, and asynchronous learning programs.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Digital Marketing with Adobe InDesign
Time: 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM
Instructor: Fariha Alam
Description:
In the dynamic world of digital marketing, creating visually engaging content is crucial for capturing and retaining audience interest. This session is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their digital marketing skills through design, whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your abilities with Adobe InDesign.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Set up new documents, create custom workspaces, manage layers, and apply multiple-grid layouts and Parent Pages in Adobe InDesign.
- Design brochures, newsletters, and social media content that meet specific marketing objectives.
- Utilize key InDesign features, including importing text, using Auto Style, creating graphic frames, and placing images.
- Export designs optimized for both print and digital platforms.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: How to Update your Career/Talent Profile in Workday
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM
Instructor: Lisa Evans, Scot Brown
Description:
In this interactive 30-minute session, participants will learn how to effectively update their career and talent profiles in Workday. The workshop will cover key aspects such as adding education, skills, and experience, which are essential for career development and internal mobility. Through a combination of live demonstrations, hands-on practice, and expert guidance, attendees will gain the skills needed to maintain their profiles, making them more visible for future opportunities within the organization. The session will also cover best practices for profile management and offer practical tips to enhance their professional growth.
Participants will leave the session with a clear understanding of how to navigate and update their profiles in Workday and the importance of keeping this information current for professional development, workforce planning, and career growth.
Measurable Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the importance of keeping Workday profiles updated for career and organizational benefits.
- Learn how to navigate Workday to update education, skills, and experience sections.
- Gain practical experience by updating their profiles with real-time support.
- Discover best practices for managing profiles to enhance career growth opportunities.
- This class is designed for employees looking to manage their professional information more effectively in Workday and to align their profiles with long-term career goals.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Using deliberative dialogues to enhance action planning and communication
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM
Instructor: Jennifer Haydel
Description:
Deliberative dialogues are structured discussions focused on concrete policies and challenges; the dialogue format allows participants to think through a problem together so that they emerge from the discussion with a better understanding of differences and commonalities. Since these dialogues focus on specific policies and actions, they teach and model positive and constructive exploration of disagreement and enable concrete action planning in departments and organizations. Attendees at this workshop will learn how to facilitate deliberative dialogues and will receive deliberative dialogue resources that can be adapted to a variety of settings. The primary focus of this workshop will be on using deliberative dialogues to enhance communication and concrete planning in the workplace.
Measurable Learning Outcomes:
Participants will be able to:
1) Explain the deliberative dialogue model.
2) Articulate a plan for implementing a deliberative dialogue with colleagues.
3) Analyze strengths and weaknesses of the deliberative dialogue model based on workplace goals.
10/8 Turn Minutes into Mastery with Microlearning
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
Microlearning is an approach that offers new concepts in small chunks of usually fewer than 10 minutes. This session will present the components of micro-learning and share ideas for how it can be used for personal, academic, and professional growth.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify the components of micro learning
- Consider opportunities to integrate micro learning
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Influencing Positivity
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructor: Dwayne Henry
Description:
Why do some people drag you down while others are uplifting? What impact does this have on you? What impact do you have on others? Explore through discussions and case studies how your attitude and atmosphere impact yourself as well as others around you. Identify appropriate ways to influence others to create a positive environment at MC where people feel supported and a sense of belonging.
Outcomes:
• Identify behaviors that have a positive influence on others
• Engage more meaningfully with your colleagues to promote a feeling of belonging
• Influence your workspace using strategies to increase the positive atmosphere.
• Identify and develop techniques that can enable you to influence from the top down and the bottom up in your organization.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Creating Engaging Digital Media with Adobe Express
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Instructor: Gloria Barron
Description:
In this workshop, explore the potential of Adobe Express, a versatile tool for effortlessly creating stunning visual content. From designing social media graphics to crafting engaging presentations, Adobe Express empowers anyone to express their creativity without design experience. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, participants will learn how to leverage Adobe Express to enhance communication and engagement with students, colleagues, and the broader community.
Measurable Learning Outcomes:
- Describe the key features and functionalities of Adobe Express.
- Develop a basic understanding of designing posters, flyers, videos, and blogs.
- Identify other creative templates to create visually attractive content.
- Explore practical applications of Adobe Express for academic, professional, and personal use.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Problem-Solving Styles – Adaptors, Innovators and Culture
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Instructor: Richard Forrest
Description:
Research shows that people are born with a dominant cognitive problem-solving style, defined as adaptive or innovative. Knowing one’s problem-solving style improves our ability to respect and manage differences when working with others, which increases the problem-solving potential of diverse teams. In this class, participants will assess their problem-solving style and practice integrative problem-solving. This involves going beyond treating adaption and innovation styles as mutually exclusive and recognizing what cultural dynamics are also in play.
Learning Outcomes:
- Appreciate how problem-solving as a team improves the chances of coming up with the best solution/result.
- Assess your problem-solving orientation and move beyond binary thinking.
- Pick up essential skills to lead, build, and motivate diverse teams to work more effectively and solve complex business problems.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Creating Accessible Documents and Presentations
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructor: Adam Reed
Description:
In this session, we’ll explore the principles of creating accessible documents, presentations, and other communication materials that are easy to read and navigate for all internal and external stakeholders, including those with disabilities. Through hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, you’ll learn how to identify and correct accessibility issues across various types of content. This session will provide practical steps and tools to ensure that your materials not only meet accessibility standards but also improve the clarity and effectiveness of your communication. Join us to refine your design practices, enhance your workplace communication, and contribute to a more inclusive and accessible work environment.
Learning Outcomes:
Identify common accessibility issues in communication materials and recommend specific improvements. Apply recognized accessibility standards to create or update a document or presentation, ensuring it is accessible to all users. Collaborate with peers to review and provide constructive feedback on accessibility enhancements, promoting continuous improvement in creating inclusive materials.
10/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Enhancing Administrative Efficiency with Power BI: A Powerful Tool for Visual Reporting
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructor: Fariha Alam
Description:
This workshop is designed for administrative professionals who want to leverage Power BI to make their work more efficient and effective. You’ll learn the basics of Power BI and how it can be used to analyze data and create clear, visual reports. The workshop will guide you through the process of importing data into Power BI and creating personalized dashboards that provide you and your team with the insights needed to make informed decisions. By the end, you’ll be equipped to use Power BI to streamline your tasks and enhance overall efficiency in your role.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Navigate Power BI’s interface and utilize its key tools for administrative tasks.
- Successfully import datasets into Power BI and perform specific data transformations to prepare them for analysis.
- Create personalized dashboards that display relevant data for informed decision-making.
10/8 Task Management: Who Does What?
Time: 2:25 PM – 3:25 PM
Instructor: Cynthia Lee Mauris
Description:
Have you ever worked with a group where no one knows what anyone else is doing or multiple people are doing the same thing? Clear and conflict free roles enable members to work together. Use a RACI chart to clarify roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities, resulting in improved and efficient performance.
Outcomes:
Upon completion of this class, you will be able to:
- Define RACI
- Use a RACI chart to document and make visible who does what
10/8 ELITE After Dark: Essential Microsoft Teams Tips & Tricks
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Instructor: Anna Donohoe
Description:
This workshop will introduce participants to tips and tricks to use Microsoft Teams more efficiently and effectively. These tips and tricks will help keep your Teams channels, chats, and files organized and your Teams calls running smoothly. This workshop is open to all levels of Teams users who want to save time and better understand the range of uses of this tool.
Outcomes:
On completion of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Increase proficiency in the use of Teams
- Organize chats and files in Teams
- Customize Teams settings for calls and meetings
10/8 ELITE After Dark: Transform Your Teaching: A Comprehensive Guide to Flipped Learning
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Join ELITE for an engaging 90-minute workshop on Flipped Learning, designed specifically for college faculty. In this session, you will learn how to shift the traditional classroom paradigm by moving direct instruction outside of class time and transforming in-class activities into interactive, student-centered experiences. Bring your syllabus and an open mind as we explore this innovative teaching approach that can lead to improved student outcomes.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the principles and benefits of flipped learning,
- Describe practical strategies for creating and delivering flipped content
- Identify appropriate technology tools, design engaging pre-class materials, and facilitate
- Dynamic in-class activities that enhance student learning.
10/10 YuJa Open Lab Via Zoom
Instructors: Tom Cantu, Megan Calvert
Description:
ELITE’s YuJa Online Open Labs are a flexible and convenient way to enhance your video content creation and management skills. These one-hour, informal sessions provide a drop-in opportunity for faculty to engage directly with YuJa experts. Whether you aim to transition from a personal YouTube account to our professional, college-endorsed video platform, wish to provide your students with commercial-free educational resources, or require efficient video editing and transcript generation tools, our Open Labs can help.
You can come and go as you please during the open labs within the hour, making it perfectly tailored to your busy schedule. You will receive personalized assistance with YuJa, from uploading commercial-free videos to making minor edits and merging clips without additional software. Our labs offer the flexibility of Zoom, allowing you to connect from anywhere and get the answers you need swiftly and efficiently.
Embrace the convenience of YuJa’s user-friendly interface and college-sanctioned resources to make your video content accessible and engaging for all students. No extensive commitment—just the support you need when you need it.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Participate in ELITE’s YuJa Online Open Labs to engage with experts, seeking personalized assistance to answer specific questions about using the platform.
10/10 ELITE After Dark: Using Adobe Express for Alternative Student Projects
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructor: Gloria Barron
Description:
Offer a choice to your students to use Adobe Express to create alternative assignments that cater to diverse learning preferences and foster creative expression, aligned with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
Outcomes:
1. Create alternative assignments that cater to diverse learning preferences and creativity.
2. Develop students’ digital skills with Adobe Express, making them proficient in creating content that is valuable and applicable in professional settings.
10/11 HyFlex Course Design
Time: 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM
Instructor: Tom Cantu
Description:
Imagine a fresh approach to instruction that increases the motivation to learn, engages students, and results in academic success – that’s HyFlex learning. HyFlex learning is designed to maximize flexibility for students to attend and participate in classes remotely or in person. This series offers an opportunity to explore a collaborative approach to HyFlex course design to educate, engage, and empower learners at Montgomery College.
This cohort experience meets three times on Fridays from 2-4 pm on Sept. 27, Oct. 4, Oct. 11. Participants should attend all three sessions to learn to operate a HyFlex classroom and work in small groups to plan and deliver a HyFlex lesson.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explore a research-based instructional model that allows for a gradual release of responsibility from the instructor to teams, to individual students
- Evaluate a collaborative approach to HyFlex instruction
- Design and develop a HyFlex lesson for future implementation
- Create a community of practice to support HyFlex teaching and learning at MC.
10/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
This session covers the basics of Blackboard Learn Ultra, from the interface and navigation to best practices when building a new course.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Navigate the Blackboard Learn Ultra environment.
- Identify key features of the Blackboard Learn Ultra interface.
- Explain how consistent course navigation can support student learning.
10/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
The MC Learn Ultra transition team invites you to join us virtually for office hours. We are here for you to answer questions and connect you to resources around MC’s transition to Blackboard Learn Ultra. In person options are also available (separate signup in Workday). Please ensure you have access to a development course in Blackboard Ultra before attending office hours.
Click here for more information
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about this transition
10/11 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
This session introduces the key things instructors need to know when converting an existing course from Blackboard Learn Original into Blackboard Learn Ultra.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the differences between Original and Ultra Courses.
- Examine features unique or common to Original and Ultra Courses
- Explain the value of course preparation for conversion.
10/15 Microsoft Teams Essentials
Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on, small group workshop will provide a solid foundation in the use of Microsoft Teams. Whether you want an overview of the basics, or are looking to become more efficient, this course is for you. Even experienced users can benefit from valuable tips, tricks, and timesavers along the way.
The workshop will be conducted via Zoom. To fully participate, participants should be able to access both the desktop (installed) and web versions of Word. We also recommend that you join the workshop from a computer with two monitors or from two side-by-side devices so you can view your instructor’s screen while completing the exercises.
Visit the Microsoft Essentials website for a full list of the functions covered in this workshop and for more details on the technology required to participate.
Outcomes:
Outcomes will be adjusted based on a participant survey and may include:
- Access Teams and identify the best uses for Teams
- Navigate and customize the Teams environment
- Use the chat and calls features for one-on-one and group communication
- Create teams within Teams and use them to share and collaborate on files and organize conversations and activities within channels
- Schedule meetings, participate in meetings, and follow up after a meeting
10/16 Teach Them to Learn: Using Spaced Practice for More Effective Learning
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Teach Them to Learn: Using Spaced Practice for More Effective Learning” is a one-hour workshop designed to provide faculty with the knowledge and tools to implement spaced practice in their teaching. Participants will explore the cognitive science behind spaced practice and understand how it enhances long-term retention of information. Through interactive activities and practical examples, educators will learn how to structure their lessons and assignments to incorporate spaced intervals effectively. The workshop will also provide strategies for tracking and assessing student progress to ensure the effectiveness of spaced practice. By the end of the session, participants will have a clear action plan to integrate this technique into their pedagogy for improved student outcomes.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the cognitive principles behind spaced practice and its benefits for long-term learning retention.
- Develop a plan to incorporate the spaced practice technique into their own teaching practices, including specific strategies for tracking and assessing student progress.
10/18 Messaging Best Practices in Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: Anna Donohoe, Paul Miller
Description:
This session provides an overview of the Messages area in Blackboard Learn Ultra, including best practices, workflows, and structural considerations. The MC Learn Ultra Transition team will provide answers to FAQs and information about additional resources.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the structure and features of the Messages area
- Configure Messages to optionally send copies to recipients’ email addresses
- Describe the advantages to centralized Messages within Blackboard for both instructors and students
10/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
This session covers the basics of Blackboard Learn Ultra, from the interface and navigation to best practices when building a new course.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Navigate the Blackboard Learn Ultra environment.
- Identify key features of the Blackboard Learn Ultra interface.
- Explain how consistent course navigation can support student learning.
10/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
The MC Learn Ultra transition team invites you to join us virtually for office hours. We are here for you to answer questions and connect you to resources around MC’s transition to Blackboard Learn Ultra. In person options are also available (separate signup in Workday). Please ensure you have access to a development course in Blackboard Ultra before attending office hours.
Click here for more information
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about this transition
10/21 Online Teaching Training
Time: Asynchronous, Fully-Online in Blackboard
Instructors: Tom Cantu, Phil Bonner
Description:
The Online Teaching training prepares Montgomery College faculty to teach asynchronous (DL Web) online and blended courses.
The training occurs in Blackboard as a seven-week online course that begins on Sept. 3 and ends on Oct. 21. The course will guide professors through planning, building, and preparing to teach their own online or blended course.
Although the training is conducted asynchronously, it is not self-paced. As in any DL Web course, there are weekly deadlines. Participants are expected to log in to the course regularly to view announcements, respond to email, complete assignments, review feedback to update their work, and actively contribute to the discussions throughout the week.
When teaching asynchronously, the elements of good teaching commonly found in live, interactive classrooms must be intentionally recreated. Professors will redesign a course for online or blended delivery to present course content, actively engage students, assess learning, and establish an inclusive environment.
Prerequisites: Completion of Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning (formerly SRT training.)
***Registration is open only to those who have received approvals from their discipline dean and the Dean of the Virtual Campus.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Develop web-centric habits as evidenced by logging in to the course regularly to complete assignments, respond to email, and actively contribute to the weekly discussions.
- Design an online or blended course to present course content, engage students, assess learning, and establish an inclusive environment.
- Build a course template for an online or blended course that fulfills the competency demonstration criteria including the 22 Essential Quality Matters Standards, 7th Ed.
10/22 Microsoft Word Essentials Plus
Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on, small-group workshop will build on the foundational skills of Microsoft Word Essentials with a focus on intermediate and advanced-level tasks. Participants do not need to have taken Microsoft Word Essentials but should already know how to navigate the interface comfortably and perform basic tasks such as those listed in the Word Essentials competencies.
The workshop will be conducted via Zoom. To fully participate, participants should be able to access both the desktop (installed) and web versions of Word. We also recommend that you join the workshop from a computer with two monitors or from two side-by-side devices so you can view your instructor’s screen while completing the exercises.
Visit the Microsoft Essentials website for a full list of the functions covered in this workshop and for more details on the technology required to participate.
Outcomes:
Outcomes will be adjusted based on a participant survey and may include:
- Format documents with more complex features such as columns, page breaks, page numbers, tables of contents, and hyperlinks
- Insert advanced elements into a document, such as watermarks, SmartArt graphics, charts, and citations
- Use mail merge to send customized emails and letters to a list of recipients
- Collaborate on documents using track changes and comments
- Manage document metadata and formats
10/25 Accessibility in Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
This session provides an overview of accessibility in Blackboard Learn Ultra, from structure and navigation to optimization for screen readers. The MC Learn Ultra Transition team will provide answers to FAQs and information about additional resources.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Recognize the range of accessibility-centered design elements in the Ultra interface
- Identify at least one area of accessibility to focus on in your courses
- Access additional Blackboard Learn Ultra and accessibility resources at MC
10/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: MC Learn Ultra Transition Team
Description:
Join the MC Learn Ultra Transition team for a hands-on open lab where you can explore Blackboard Learn Ultra resources and get answers to questions about MC’s three-phase transition to Blackboard Learn Ultra. Please note that open labs are IN PERSON and will take place simultaneously in Takoma Park, Germantown, and Rockville. Virtual options are also available (separate signup in Workday).
Please ensure you have access to a development course in Blackboard Ultra before attending office hours.
Click here for more information.
**We encourage you to bring your own laptop, charger, and mouse (if desired) to in-person office hours if possible. **
Questions? Please email ultratransition@montgomerycollege.edu
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about this transition
10/29 Excel Open Lab: Conditional Formatting & Data Validation
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Instructor: Anna Donohoe
Description:
This open lab session will introduce a set of specific features and tasks (listed below) in the first half of our time together. The second half is structured as open office hours for participants to practice using the skills introduced and/or ask questions about anything related to Microsoft Excel.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify different use cases for conditional formatting and data validation
- Use conditional formatting rules to highlight specific text and numeric data
- Configure data validation rules to only allow specific data types to be entered
- Create an in-cell dropdown menu to facilitate consistent data entry
10/29 Pedagogical Discussion # 2: Designing AI-Enhanced Learning Experiences
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructors: Phillip Bonner, Paul Miller
Description:
Dive into strategies for integrating AI into curriculum design. Learn how to create AI-enhanced lesson plans, assessments, and instructional materials that cater to diverse learner needs and foster engagement. Discuss and share successful AI implementation stories from your own educational contexts.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Develop practical skills for evaluating and implementing AI solutions in your teaching.
- Engage in a meaningful discussion and share personal insights and experiences with fellow educators.
10/30 Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning
Time: Asynchronous, Fully-Online in Blackboard
Instructor: Michele Knight
Description:
Blackboard and other Learning Management Systems are essential for communication, information, assessment, and design, supporting learning and student success. The Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning course assists educators in developing skills for effectively using Blackboard in a face-to-face or remote teaching environment.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Apply Blackboard tools to establish an active online presence.
- Adapt your course for Digital Teaching in alignment with best practices for the discipline.
- Use Blackboard tools to evaluate student learning while considering alternative assessment techniques.
- Utilize appropriate video conferencing software to promote student engagement.
- Explore multimedia technology for use in the digital classroom.
10/30 Online Teaching Training – Fall II 2024
Time: Asynchronous online course in Blackboard
Instructors: Paul Miller, Tom Cantu, Phil Bonner
Description:
The Online Teaching training prepares Montgomery College faculty to teach asynchronous (DL Web) online and blended courses.
The training occurs in Blackboard as a seven-week online course that begins on Oct. 30 and ends on Dec. 17. The course will guide professors through planning, building, and preparing to teach their own online or blended course.
Although the training is conducted asynchronously, it is not self-paced. As in any DL Web course, there are weekly deadlines. Participants are expected to log in to the course regularly to view announcements, respond to email, complete assignments, review feedback to update their work, and actively contribute to the discussions throughout the week.
When teaching asynchronously, the elements of good teaching commonly found in live, interactive classrooms must be intentionally recreated. Professors will redesign a course for online or blended delivery to present course content, actively engage students, assess learning, and establish an inclusive environment.
***Registration is open only to those who have received approvals from their discipline dean and the Dean of the Virtual Campus.
Prerequisites: Completion of Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning (formerly SRT training).
Notes:
Teaching remotely using Zoom is live or synchronous teaching. The Online Teaching training will guide professors through creating an asynchronous online course.
Professors with experience teaching and building asynchronous online courses may be eligible for credit for prior learning.
If you have questions, please contact Shinta Hernandez, Dean of MC Online, at shinta.hernandez@montgomerycollege.edu.
Outcomes:
- Develop web-centric habits as evidenced by logging in to the course regularly to complete assignments, respond to email, and actively contribute to the weekly discussions.
- Design an online or blended course to present course content, engage students, assess learning, and establish an inclusive environment.
- Build a course template for an online or blended course that fulfills the competency demonstration criteria including the 22 Essential Quality Matters Standards, 7th Ed.
