November – All Workshops
11/1 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
11/1 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
11/1 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
11/1 Experiential Learning in Action
11/1 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
11/1 Using Micro-Learning Strategies to Improve Students’ Learning Outcomes
11/4 ELITE After Dark: How to Use ChatGPT Ethically and With Respect
11/4 ELITE After Dark: Microsoft Forms Tips & Tricks
11/5 Microsoft PowerPoint Essentials Plus
11/5 ELITE After Dark: YuJa Open Lab via Zoom
11/5 ELITE After Dark: Three Steps to Elevate Your Presentation Skills
11/8 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
11/8 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
11/8 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
11/12 Excel Open Lab: PivotTable Basics
11/12 Super Staff Tuesdays: Digital Marketing with Adobe InDesign
11/12 Super Staff Tuesdays: Creating Engaging Digital Media with Adobe Express
11/12 Microsoft 365 Cloud Storage and Collaboration Using OneDrive and Teams
11/12 Three Steps to Elevate Your Presentation Skills
11/12 Super Staff Tuesdays: Harnessing the Power of Chat GPT – Generative Functionality
11/15 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
11/15 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
11/15 Discussion Best Practices in Blackboard Learn Ultra
11/19 Microsoft Teams Essentials Plus
11/20 Let’s Get to the Bottom of This with the 5 Whys
11/22 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
11/22 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
11/26 Pedagogical Discussion #3: Building Trust and Transparency in AI Education
11/1 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: 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 workshop, 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.
11/1 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 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. 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
11/1 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 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 value of course preparation for conversion.
11/1 Experiential Learning in Action
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
Experiential learning has benefits for student learning during a course and prepares them for opportunities beyond the course. Many courses cannot accommodate the large-scale experiential learning activities such as internships, practicum, and research, instructors can integrate meaningful, small-scale experiences that benefit student learning; however, instructors can create experiential activities for students on a smaller scale. This workshop will guide participants through the four phases of experiential learning to brainstorm low stakes, shorter activities.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Give examples of simple experiential learning activities
- Identify opportunities to integrate experiential learning into a course
- Draft a 10–15-minute experiential learning activity for your course
11/1 Microsoft Bookings
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on workshop will introduce Microsoft Bookings, a web-based scheduling tool. Microsoft Bookings makes scheduling and managing appointments a breeze. It helps you schedule and manage meetings and appointments with your colleagues or students without granting others direct access to your Outlook calendar. Whether you need to book time to meet people or set aside time for different meetings, Bookings makes it easy and convenient for both you and your attendees. Bookings is highly customizable and can help you save time by reducing repetitive scheduling tasks.
The workshop will be conducted via Zoom. To fully participate, it is best to join from a device with two screens or from two side-by-side devices so that you can follow the instructor’s demonstrations. See the Microsoft Essentials website for more details on technology requirements.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify the benefits of web-based scheduling tools
- Access Microsoft Bookings via Microsoft365
- Create and manage your own Bookings page
- Share your Bookings page with others
11/1 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.
Measurable Learning 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.
11/1 Using Micro-Learning Strategies to Improve Students’ Learning Outcomes
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: Laurent Ndeze
Description:
Micro-learning refers to instructional strategies utilizing ‘bite-sized’ segments of course content, presented in a wide range of formats and using different platforms, including social media.
During this workshop, we will examine how you can use micro-learning strategies in your course design and delivery to increase attention span while minimizing constraints on the human brain. In addition, we will review samples and research supporting the idea that most students learn better when engaged in short sessions than in long sessions.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify effective modes/methods of delivering micro-learning content.
- Integrate micro-learning activities/objects into your course.
- Explain how micro-learning strategies can contribute to cost containment for students.
- Identify 2-3 preferred micro-learning strategies you want to use in your teaching.
11/4 ELITE After Dark: How to Use ChatGPT Ethically and With Respect
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructor: Paul Miller
Description:
As AI-driven language models like ChatGPT continue to reshape the digital landscape, digital literacy skills are more important than ever. This workshop emphasizes responsible and respectful deployment in various contexts, ensuring positive and safe interactions. AI detection software will also be highlighted.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Recognize potential pitfalls and ethical dilemmas in using ChatGPT.
- Develop guidelines and best practices for responsible ChatGPT use in different scenarios.
- Engage in discussions and scenarios that promote a culture of respect and integrity with AI technologies
11/4 ELITE After Dark: Microsoft Forms Tips & Tricks
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Instructor: Anna Donohoe
Description:
This workshop will give an overview of Microsoft Forms and introduce tips and tricks to help you use this powerful tool more efficiently in conjunction with Excel. We will cover how to create, customize and share Forms, as well as highlighting specific tips to help structure Forms for streamlined results analysis in Excel. All levels of Forms users are welcome in this workshop.
Outcomes:
On completion of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Create and collaborate on Forms
- Customize Forms themes, formatting, and settings
- View and analyze Form results in real time
- Share and download Forms results for analysis in Excel
11/5 Microsoft PowerPoint Essentials Plus
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on, small-group workshop will build on the foundational skills of Microsoft PowerPoint Essentials with a focus on intermediate and advanced-level tasks. Participants do not need to have taken Microsoft PowerPoint Essentials but should already know how to navigate the interface comfortably and perform basic tasks such as those listed in the PowerPoint 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:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify basic design principles for better presentations and use advanced formatting features
- Insert, modify, align, group, order, and animate objects such as audio, video, SmartArt graphics, tables, and charts
- Manage slides using the Slide Master, Zoom, the Morph transition, and more
- Present and share slides using the presenter view, the video recording feature, and workshop handouts
11/5 ELITE After Dark: YuJa Open Lab via Zoom
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructor: Michele Knight
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’ll 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:
- Participate in ELITE’s YuJa Online Open Labs to engage with experts, seeking personalized assistance to answer specific questions about using the platform.
11/5 ELITE After Dark: Three Steps to Elevate Your Presentation Skills
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
This interactive workshop will help participants build confidence to prepare an engaging presentation. We will explore honing your purpose, using relevant narratives to connect the audience with the topic, and selecting strategies that promote audience participation.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Plan a presentation with a clear goal for a specific audience
- Explain the benefits of storytelling in a presentation
- Identify at least two interactive techniques to engage the audience
11/8 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: 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 workshop, 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.
11/8 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. 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
11/8 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 value of course preparation for conversion.
11/12 Excel Open Lab: PivotTable Basics
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:
- Identify use cases for PivotTables to summarize and visualize data
- Create a simple PivotTable using example data provided by your instructor
- Recognize when pre-processing is needed to transform data prior to inserting a PivotTable
11/12 YuJa Open Lab Via Zoom
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Instructors: Michele Knight
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.
11/12 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.
11/12 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.
Learning Objectives:
- 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.
11/12 Microsoft 365 Cloud Storage and Collaboration Using OneDrive and Teams
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
Do you feel safer keeping your money in the bank than in cash under your mattress? If so, then cloud storage is probably the right solution for your files as well! In this workshop, we will briefly discuss the benefits of cloud storage, compare OneDrive vs. Teams, and examine scenarios most appropriate for each. We will then walk you through the basic steps of accessing Microsoft365 (free to all college employees and students), create and organize cloud-based files, and collaborate on a document together. Pacing and content will be adjusted based on participant skill levels and questions.
The workshop will be conducted via Zoom. To fully participate, it is also best to join from a device with two screens or from two side-by-side devices so that you can follow the instructor’s demonstrations. See the Microsoft Essentials website for more details on technology requirements.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify the benefits of cloud storage and collaboration
- Access OneDrive and Teams using Microsoft365
- Create and manage cloud-based files
- Share and collaborate on cloud-based documents
11/12 Super Staff Tuesdays: Reflective Listening: How to Hear and Be Heard for Successful Conversations
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Instructor: James Boyle
Description:
Learn to use reflective listening to understand others, navigate difficult conversations with curiosity, and support others in their own learning and decision making.
Learning Outcomes/Objectives:
- Learn to reflect what others say to build understanding.
- Practice using curiosity to support others while remaining neutral.
- Explore what it feels like to listen to understand rather than to respond.
11/12 Three Steps to Elevate Your Presentation Skills
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
This interactive workshop will help participants build confidence to prepare an engaging presentation. We will explore honing your purpose, using relevant narratives to connect the audience with the topic, and selecting strategies that promote audience participation.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Plan a presentation with a clear goal for a specific audience
- Explain the benefits of storytelling in a presentation
- Identify at least two interactive techniques to engage the audience
11/12 Super Staff Tuesdays: Harnessing the Power of Chat GPT – Generative Functionality
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructor: Paul Miller
Description:
In this hands-on workshop, participants will dive into the world of Chat GPT, exploring its generative functionality and how it can be utilized to enhance productivity, creativity, and learning. Whether you’re a novice or familiar with AI, this session will provide practical insights into leveraging Chat GPT for various applications, including content creation, brainstorming, and problem-solving. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how this tool can be integrated into your workflow to streamline processes and inspire innovation.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the Core Concepts: Explain the fundamental principles of generative AI, with a focus on how Chat GPT generates content and interacts with users.
2. Apply Chat GPT in Practical Scenarios: Demonstrate how to use Chat GPT for real-world applications, such as drafting documents, creating content, and facilitating brainstorming sessions.
3. Implement Ethical AI Practices: Identify and apply best practices for using Chat GPT responsibly, ensuring ethical considerations are maintained in AI-driven interactions.
11/12 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.
11/15 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: 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 workshop, 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.
11/15 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. 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
11/15 Discussion 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 Discussions 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 Discussion structure in the Ultra interface
- Configure Discussions to promote student engagement
- Identify Discussion grading workflows to implement in your course
11/19 Microsoft Teams Essentials Plus
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on, small-group workshop will build on the foundational skills of Microsoft Teams Essentials with a focus on intermediate and advanced-level tasks. Participants do not need to have taken Microsoft Teams Essentials but should already know how to navigate the interface comfortably and perform basic tasks such as those listed in the Teams 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:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Adjust advanced settings and notifications
- Use advanced features of posts and messages, such as loop components, marking posts and messages as urgent or important, tags, and @mentions
- Adjust permissions and share settings to collaborate effectively with team members and non-members
- Use meeting controls and features to share screens and documents, set up a waiting room, apply video filters, multitask, and more
- Use Planner to manage shared tasks and projects
11/20 Let’s Get to the Bottom of This with the 5 Whys
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
The 5 Why’s is a problem-solving technique used in many industries to identify the underlying cause of a problem and work to find a solution. In this session we will practice the technique and brainstorm situations in which it can be useful.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the purpose of using the 5 Why’s
- Apply the 5 Why’s technique to a classroom or workplace situation
11/22 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
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
11/22 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 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. 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
11/26 Pedagogical Discussion #3: Building Trust and Transparency in AI Education
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Explore the issues of trust and transparency in AI applications. Discuss ethical considerations, data privacy, and strategies to promote transparency and build trust among educators, students, and stakeholders. Share your challenges and solutions related to building trust in AI tools.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explore the importance of trust, transparency, and ethical considerations in AI.
- Engage in a meaningful discussion and share personal insights and experiences with fellow educators.
