April – All Workshops 🌸
4/1 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: Writing Effective Multiple-choice Questions
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: Maximizing Learning in a Collaborative Environment
4/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
4/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
4/4 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: YuJa Open Lab
4/7 ELITE After Dark: YuJa Video Quizzes
4/8 ELITE After Dark: Searching for Harmony between AI and Teaching and Learning
4/8 Super Staff Tuesday: Creative Design with Adobe Express
4/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Organizational Skills for Efficiency
4/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Excel Open Lab: PivotTable Basics
4/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Microsoft Teams Essentials Plus
4/8 ELITE After Dark: Searching for Harmony between AI and Teaching and Learning
4/8 Blackboard Learn Ultra – 10 Key Tips & Tricks
4/11 How to use ChatGPT Ethically and with RESPECT
4/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
4/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
4/11 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Gradebook Overview
4/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
4/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
4/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
4/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
4/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
4/25 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/26 Love of Teaching Half-Day Conference 2025
4/30 Pedagogical Discussion 6: Evaluating and Implementing AI Solutions in Higher Education
4/1 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Instructors: Anna Donohoe and Paul Miller
Description:
This session introduces converting an existing course from Blackboard Learn Original to Blackboard Learn Ultra. Two recommended course copy approaches and the benefits of each approach are explained step-by-step.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the differences between Original and Ultra Courses.
- Identify the course copy approach they plan to utilize.
- Explain the value of course preparation for conversion.
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: Writing Effective Multiple-choice Questions
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Writing effective multiple-choice questions is an art and a science. These types of questions abound in college classrooms, yet are they all good examples? What makes a good stem? What’s the difference between a correct option and a best option multiple-choice question? What makes a plausible distractor? Come to this one-hour class to explore these and other questions about multiple-choice questions.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Explain the elements of an effective multiple-choice question.
- Write an effective multiple-choice question using the workshop suggestions.
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: Maximizing Learning in a Collaborative Environment
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Instructor: Laurent Ndeze
Description:
This workshop explores strategies and techniques to foster student teamwork, sustain engagement, and shared responsibility in diverse learning environments. We will examine the principles of collaborative learning, effective communication, and the role of technology in enhancing collaboration. We will work on interactive activities that provide participants with the skills for designing, implementing, and assessing collaborative learning strategies that promote problem-solving and deeper understanding.
Outcomes:
- Explain the benefits of collaborative learning for diverse learners.
- Foster effective communication and teamwork in collaborative settings.
- Design instructional activities and assessments that support meaningful collaboration.
- Integrate technology and digital tools in your teaching to enhance the collaborative learning experiences.
4/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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:
On completion, 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.
4/4 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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: https://mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/thehub/stay-connected/blackboard-learn-ultra/#Development-Courses
Outcomes:
On completion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about building and teaching courses in Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/4 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra Team
Description:
This session introduces converting an existing course from Blackboard Learn Original to Blackboard Learn Ultra. Two recommended course copy approaches and the benefits of each approach are explained step-by-step.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the differences between Original and Ultra Courses.
- Identify the course copy approach they plan to utilize.
- Explain the value of course preparation for conversion.
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructor: Gloria Barron
Description:
This workshop will empower faculty and staff to use Office 365’s built-in accessibility features to support inclusive learning environments. Participants will learn to leverage tools like the Accessibility Checker, Immersive Reader, and Dictation, as well as implement structured headers, tables of contents, and descriptive alt text. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped to create accessible materials that foster productivity and engagement among diverse student populations.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify and use key Office 365 accessibility tools, including Accessibility Checker, Immersive Reader, and Dictation.
- Apply best practices for organizing documents with structured headers, tables of contents, and lists for improved readability and navigation.
- Develop accessible visual and data content using alt text and accessible table formatting.
- Increase document inclusivity and compliance with accessibility standards, enhancing productivity for all students.
4/4 First Faculty Fridays: YuJa Open Lab
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
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’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:
By the end of this workshop, 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.
4/7 ELITE After Dark: YuJa Video Quizzes
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructors: Tom Cantu
Description:
Using videos in courses is common, but knowing which students are actively watching them can be challenging. Yuja, the MC video platform, allows faculty to embed quiz questions directly into videos. These videos can be posted in Blackboard with quiz scores appearing in the grade center. Faculty can add questions to any video, whether it’s their own or from other sources like YouTube or Films On Demand.
Outcomes:
In this hands-on session, participants will learn how to:
- Add quiz questions to videos using their MC Yuja account.
- Post the videos in Blackboard and review the quiz scores in the Blackboard grade center.
- Upload video transcripts to Generative AI to create a bank of questions to select, edit, and use.
4/8 ELITE After Dark: Searching for Harmony between AI and Teaching and Learning
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructors: 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 both learning and industry and explore ways to build a learning culture that acknowledges the role of AI while honoring ethical standards and authentic learning experiences.
Outcomes:
1. Explore AI from the lens of equity
2. Explore the impact and use of AI in your discipline/industry
3. Identify opportunities to address AI literacy (including ethics, responsibility, evaluation)
4/8 Super Staff Tuesday: Creative Design with Adobe Express
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructor: Gloria Barron
Description:
During this one-hour session, you’ll navigate the Adobe Express dashboard, explore its key features, and work with templates to create professional-looking designs. You’ll also learn how to customize your projects with text and images and discover practical tips for sharing and collaborating. By the end of the session, you’ll have the skills to design engaging content for teaching, marketing, or personal projects.
No prior design experience is necessary—just bring your creativity!
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Create visually appealing designs using templates, text, images, and colors.
- Use AI to create unique images from textual descriptions.
- Save, export, and share designs for various purposes, including teaching, marketing, and personal projects.
- Demonstrate practical applications of Adobe Express aligned with institutional branding.
4/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Organizational Skills for Efficiency
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
Do you waste time trying to find what you need? Do you rewrite tasks from one list to another multiple times? Does time slip through your hands? Enhance your methods of organizing your day and space to manage workloads effectively, improving efficiency and job satisfaction.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify what you do currently that reduces efficiency
- Apply several practices that will help you become more efficient and productive
- Remove clutter from your space and your mind
4/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: Excel Open Lab: PivotTable Basics
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 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:
On completion of this workshop, you 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
4/8 Super Staff Tuesdays: 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, 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 <https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/offices/elite/microsoft-office-essentials.html> for more details on technology requirements.
Outcomes:
Outcomes will be adjusted based on a participant survey and may include:
- 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
- Organize and manage shared files for better collaboration
- Use Planner to manage shared tasks and projects
- Adjust meeting settings to create specialized meeting types and use unique features of live meetings
4/8 ELITE After Dark: Searching for Harmony between AI and Teaching and Learning
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Instructors: 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 both learning and industry and explore ways to build a learning culture that acknowledges the role of AI while honoring ethical standards and authentic learning experiences.
Outcomes:
1. Explore AI from the lens of equity
2. Explore the impact and use of AI in your discipline/industry
3. Identify opportunities to address AI literacy (including ethics, responsibility, evaluation)
4/8 Blackboard Learn Ultra – 10 Key Tips & Tricks
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Instructors: Anna Donohoe and Paul Miller
Description:
Join the MC Learn Ultra Transition team for a tour of 10 key things everyone needs to know about Blackboard Learn Ultra. From accessibility and setting up overall grades to copying content and scheduling announcements, we will walk you through the highlights of this upgraded system. We will also have time for Q&A at the end of the session.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify at least three features of Ultra to emulate in their courses
- Access and navigate Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about our transition
4/11 How to use ChatGPT Ethically and with RESPECT
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: 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:
- 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.
4/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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:
On completion, 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.
4/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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: https://mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/thehub/stay-connected/blackboard-learn-ultra/#Development-Courses
Outcomes:
On completion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about building and teaching courses in Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/11 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: Ultra Team
Description:
This session introduces converting an existing course from Blackboard Learn Original to Blackboard Learn Ultra. Two recommended course copy approaches and the benefits of each approach are explained step-by-step.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the differences between Original and Ultra Courses.
- Identify the course copy approach they plan to utilize.
- Explain the value of course preparation for conversion.
4/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Gradebook Overview
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: Ultra Team
Description:
This session provides an overview of the Gradebook in Blackboard Learn Ultra, including best practices, workflows and how to set up the gradebook. 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 gradebook structure and grading workflows in the Ultra interface
- Configure the gradebook so that students and instructors can easily access their grades
- Identify ways to customize gradebook settings to fit the course structure and modality.
4/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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:
On completion, 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.
4/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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: https://mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/thehub/stay-connected/blackboard-learn-ultra/#Development-Courses
Outcomes:
On completion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about building and teaching courses in Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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:
On completion, 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.
4/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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: https://mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/thehub/stay-connected/blackboard-learn-ultra/#Development-Courses
Outcomes:
On completion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about building and teaching courses in Blackboard Learn Ultra
4/25 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra 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. More information: https://mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/thehub/stay-connected/blackboard-learn-ultra/#Development-Courses
**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:
On completion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Access Blackboard Learn Ultra resources at MC
- Answer FAQs about this transition
Register in Workday for Takoma Park
Register in Workday for Rockville
Register in Workday for Germantown
4/25 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructors: Ultra Team
Description:
This session introduces converting an existing course from Blackboard Learn Original to Blackboard Learn Ultra. Two recommended course copy approaches and the benefits of each approach are explained step-by-step.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Explain the differences between Original and Ultra Courses.
- Identify the course copy approach they plan to utilize.
- Explain the value of course preparation for conversion.
4/26 Love of Teaching Half-Day Conference 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Instructors: Gloria Barron
Description:
The Love of Teaching Conference celebrates the art, dedication, and transformative power of being an unforgettable and impactful educator. It honors the passion that drives teaching and the profound influence educators have on their students’ lives. This conference brings educators together to network, share insights, engage in meaningful discussions, and learn from one another. It’s a space to celebrate the profession, reflect on why we chose to teach, and reignite the spark that makes teaching so rewarding.
Outcomes:
By the end of this event, participants will be able to:
- Reignite their passion for teaching by reflecting on their core motivations and personal teaching journeys.
- Strengthen professional connections by engaging in meaningful networking and collaborative discussions with fellow educators.
- Exchange effective teaching strategies by exploring innovative and practical methods for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
- Foster reflective practice by identifying ways to assess their teaching methods and their impact on student success.
- Promote inclusivity and empowerment by gaining insights into creating supportive learning environments where all students feel valued and respected.
- Apply practical tools and resources by identifying strategies and materials that can be implemented immediately to enhance instructional practices.
4/30 Pedagogical Discussion 6: Evaluating and Implementing AI Solutions in Higher Education
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructors: Philip Bonner and Paul Miller
Description:
Develop a roadmap for implementing AI solutions within educational institutions. Examine case studies, best practices, and methodologies for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of AI-powered educational tools. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss their own ideas on AI with their peers.
Outcomes:
Participants will:
- Analyze case studies on the implementation of AI in higher education, identifying key success factors and challenges.
- Evaluate the effectiveness and impact of at least one AI-powered educational tool using a provided framework.
- Discuss their own ideas on implementing AI in higher education.