February – All Workshops 🌸
2/3 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
2/4 ELITE After Dark: Think Again: Strategies for Faculty to Help Students Rethink Assumptions
2/4 ELITE After Dark: Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
2/7 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
2/7 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
2/7 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: YuJa Open Lab
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Flipping Out Over Flipped Learning
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Searching for Harmony Between AI and Teaching and Learning
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Trauma-Informed Teaching for Safe and Inclusive Classrooms
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Integrating Key Motivational Factors in Your Teaching
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
2/10 Reading about Leading FY25: “Managing Oneself”. A book discussion for LDI alumni.
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Creative Design with Adobe Express
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Working with You is Challenging
2/11 The Four Cs of Good Writing
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Three Steps to Elevate Your Presentation Skills
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Excel Open Lab: Conditional Formatting
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Microsoft Excel Essentials
2/11 Blackboard Learn Ultra – 10 Key Tips & Tricks
2/13 Community of Practice for LDI Alumni and Participants
2/14 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
2/14 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
2/14 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
2/21 Blackboard Learn Ultra Gradebook Overview – Spring 2025
2/21 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
2/21 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
2/24 How to Use ChatGPT to Save Time
2/26 Pedagogical Discussion 4: Advancing Equity and Inclusion with AI
2/26 Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
2/28 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
2/28 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
2/28 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
2/28 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
2/3 Getting Things Done
PARTICIPANTS ENROLLED MUST COMPLETE ALL SESSIONS TO RECEIVE CREDIT:
- Monday, Feb. 3
- Tuesday, Feb. 4
- Wednesday, Feb. 5
Time: 8:45 AM – 12:00 PM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
How would you answer these questions?
- Are you constantly busy but don’t actually make progress on the things you need to get done?
- Do you feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work you need to do?
- Do you find yourself in reactionary mode throughout the day—reacting to the latest and loudest request and/or issue instead of focusing on the most important or meaningful work?
When it comes to all the inputs in our life, we are generally overwhelmed, stressed, and out of control. The sheer number of to-dos, commitments, tasks and projects makes it difficult for us to ever feel “on top” of everything. While we can’t change the amount of stuff we have coming into our life we can change how we engage with that stuff. Gain greater control over your work, find more focus on each task, and feel a lot less stress with these Getting Things Done, or GTD, habits taught in this certificate class.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Improve your workflow
- List the six options available for any item on your mind
- Create clearer lists from which you do all your work
- Develop a trusted, personal management system
- Accomplish more of the right tasks
- Experience less stress in your work and home life
- Experience greater confidence in your decision-making
2/3 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Instructors: Anna Donohoe
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
2/4 ELITE After Dark: Think Again: Strategies for Faculty to Help Students Rethink Assumptions
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:15 PM
Instructors: Megan Calvert
Description:
We all get stuck in our wrong ideas sometimes. In the college classroom, however, that tendency can create a significant barrier to learning. How can you help students to rethink their original ideas and embrace new, research-aligned perspectives? In this workshop, inspired by the recent book Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know by Adam Grant, we will explore practical strategies you can use to expand students’ thinking about the content you teach.
We will also share information on our upcoming book circle on Hidden Potential, another recent book by Adam Grant.
Outcomes:
- Identify four modes of thinking and how those modes of thinking can impact learning
- Promote intellectual humility and awareness of cognitive biases
- Apply active learning techniques to encourage student rethinking
2/4 ELITE After Dark: 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.
2/7 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.
2/7 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
2/7 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.
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: YuJa Open Lab
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructors: Angela Lanier, Tom Cantu, and 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.
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Flipping Out Over Flipped Learning
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Flipped learning is a teaching approach in which the students’ first brush with new material occurs outside of class rather than in it. Students read or view materials online to gain a basic understanding of the subject, and class time is devoted to solving problems or applying the new concepts. This is the inverse of the traditional mode of lecture in class and practice at home. In this one-hour course, we will explore how to flip your class!
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Explain what flipped learning is
- Employ the flipped learning approach in their own courses.
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Searching for Harmony Between AI and Teaching and Learning
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
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 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:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Explore AI from the lens of equity
- Explore the impact and use of AI in your discipline/industry
- Identify opportunities to address AI literacy (including ethics, responsibility, evaluation)
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Trauma-Informed Teaching for Safe and Inclusive Classrooms
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
In times of societal change and uncertainty, students may face challenges that impact their learning, well-being, and sense of belonging. This workshop invites educators to explore trauma-informed practices to better support all learners and create classrooms where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Define trauma and its widespread impacts
- Recognize effects of trauma on the brain and learning
- Apply seven principles of trauma-informed teaching
2/7 First Faculty Fridays: Integrating Key Motivational Factors in Your Teaching
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Instructor: Laurent Ndeze
Description:
This workshop will focus on pedagogical principles that promote motivation in a learning environment. Participants will explore key motivational concepts, such as intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, self-determination, and goal setting. You will learn how to apply these concepts to your teaching practices. Through practical strategies and evidence-based applications, this workshop will enable participants to create engaging, supportive, and motivating learning environments that empower students to be successful.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify key motivational factors and their relevance to teaching and learning.
- Develop instructional strategies that enhance learner engagement and persistence.
- Design learning activities and environments that foster intrinsic motivation and a growth mindset.
- Identify effective motivational techniques adaptable to the needs of diverse learners.
2/7 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.
2/10 Reading about Leading FY25: “Managing Oneself”. A book discussion for LDI alumni.
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
Managing Oneself, by Peter Drucker, addresses in 55 pages many of the questions covered in the LDI. Discuss these questions with other LDI alumni:
- What are my strengths?
- How do I perform?
- What are my values?
- Where do I belong?
- What should I contribute?
- What is my responsibility for relationships?
The final section of the book, challenges you to think about “the second half of your life.”
While the book can be read quickly, it provides much to think about. Continue your leadership journey and share your thoughts with other LDI alumni. After registering for this discussion, purchase the book: upon completion of the class, you will be reimbursed (limited to the price listed on Amazon).
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Reflect on several probing questions related to self-awareness
- Integrate your answers into your work and personal life
- Increase your network of LDI alumni
2/10 ChatGPT Basics
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Instructor: Paul Miller
Description:
Dive into the world of ChatGPT, OpenAI’s groundbreaking text-based AI model. This workshop introduces the foundational aspects, capabilities, and limitations of ChatGPT, setting attendees up for subsequent specialized sessions.
Outcomes:
- Understand the underlying architecture and principles behind ChatGPT.
- Familiarize yourself with the primary applications and functions of ChatGPT.
- Identify the model’s strengths and weaknesses in different contexts.
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: 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.
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Working with You is Challenging
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
It is not unusual that in a work environment there are some individuals with whom you don’t want to work because you don’t get along with each other. The reasons can vary: they don’t respond, they don’t meet deadlines, they are unprepared, they micromanage, or they challenge every decision you make. Learn how to unhook your emotions from this person and set boundaries. Take control of your own response.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify the warning signs that you may be hooked.
- Use a four-prong unhooking technique
- Establish one or more boundaries to help you work more effectively
2/11 The Four Cs of Good Writing
PARTICIPANTS ENROLLED MUST COMPLETE ALL SESSIONS TO RECEIVE CREDIT:
- Tuesday, Feb 11
- Thursday, Feb 13
- Tuesday, Feb 18
- Thursday, Feb 20
Time: 8:45 AM – 12:00 PM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner, Cynthia Mauris
Description:
Unlock the potential of your students’ reading abilities with ELITE’s workshop Unlocking the Power of Text: Active Reading Strategies for Student Success. Learn how to effectively teach and model essential active reading strategies that enhance comprehension, critical thinking, and engagement. Explore techniques such as previewing and predicting, activating schema, and checking comprehension, while also exploring how to detect author bias and misinformation. Participate in hands-on activities designed to provide practical applications for your classroom. Join ELITE and empower your students to become more insightful and independent readers!
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify and describe various active reading strategies and their importance in improving student comprehension and engagement.
- Employ practical methods to incorporate and model these strategies in their classrooms, helping students become more effective readers.
- Share their thoughts on incorporating these strategies in their classes.
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Three Steps to Elevate Your Presentation Skills
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 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 workshop, you 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
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Excel Open Lab: Conditional Formatting
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:
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Identify different use cases for conditional formatting
- Use conditional formatting rules to highlight specific text and numeric data
- Answer FAQs about conditional formatting applications
2/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Microsoft Excel Essentials
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
This hands-on, small-group workshop will provide a solid foundation in the basic use of Microsoft Excel. Whether you want an overview of the basics or are hoping to fill in gaps in your knowledge, you will leave better prepared for more effective use of this essential software. Even more experienced users can benefit from exploring newer features and learning valuable tips and tricks for better efficiency.
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.
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Navigate and customize the latest Excel interfaces of both the web and desktop
- Perform basic workplace tasks, including creating, saving, editing, formatting, printing, and collaborating on workbooks and spreadsheets
- Manage data in spreadsheets using basic formulas, freezing, sorting, filtering and formatting data into tables
2/11 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
2/13 Community of Practice for LDI Alumni and Participants
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
Join LDI alumni and current participants in a one-hour open discussion about the topic presented in the cohort class that month. Review, update, and expand your understanding of the content so you can reinforce your learning. Assist the current cohort in their understanding and application of the content as you support and mentor their journey. Reinforce and expand your LDI network.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Explain the class content of the month in more depth
- Reflect on how you have used the knowledge in your life or plan to do so
- Expand the connections you have with other LDI practitioners
2/14 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.
2/14 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
2/14 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.
2/20 HyFlex Course Design
Please note: Sessions will be held from 2:00–4:00 PM on Thursdays, February 20, February 27, and March 6, 2025. Attendance at all three sessions is required.
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.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, you 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.
2/21 Blackboard Learn Ultra Gradebook Overview – Spring 2025
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.
2/21 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.
2/21 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
2/24 Page Turners for Management Learners: “The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey” A book discussion for MC Management alumni
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey by Kenneth Blanchard might be describing you. If you find yourself working beyond your 40 hours each week while your employees are relaxing, you need to read this book. When a person goes to you with a problem and you agree to do something about it, the monkey is off his back and onto yours. How can you avoid these leaping monkeys? This 130-page book offers priceless advice: how managers can meet their own priorities, give back other people’s monkeys, and let them solve their own problems.
Continue learning about and developing your management skills and share your thoughts with other MC Management alumni. After registering for this discussion, purchase the book: upon completion of the class, you will be reimbursed (limited to the price listed on Amazon).
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Determine if you have monkeys on your back
- Identify how you can return the monkeys to those who gave them to you
- Focus on your priorities more often
- Increase your network of MC Management alumni
2/24 How to Use ChatGPT to Save Time
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Instructor: Paul Miller
Description:
Discover the transformative power of AI-driven language models in education with our workshop on Using ChatGPT to help design lessons and assessments. This innovative, hands-on workshop is tailored for faculty looking to revolutionize their lesson planning and assessment strategies with the assistance of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Together we will embrace the power of AI-driven language models to create engaging, personalized learning experiences and assessments for your students.
Outcomes:
- Recognize key areas in professional contexts where ChatGPT can be implemented
- Execute basic to intermediate tasks using ChatGPT, enhancing productivity
- Design personalized ChatGPT workflows for specific job roles or responsibilities
2/26 Pedagogical Discussion 4: Advancing Equity and Inclusion with AI
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner, Paul Miller
Description:
Focus on the role of AI in promoting equity and inclusion in education. Learn about designing AI tools that support all learners, including those from underserved communities and students with disabilities. Participants will share their experiences and strategies for using AI to advance equity in their institutions.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Identify at least three key principles of using AI to promote equity and inclusion in education.
- Develop a preliminary strategy for implementing AI solutions that address equity challenges at the College.
2/26 Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Instructor: Megan Calvert, Tom Cantu
Description:
“This brilliant book will shatter your assumptions about what it takes to improve and succeed. I wish I could go back in time and gift it to my younger self. It would’ve helped me find a more joyful path to progress.”—Serena Williams
Hidden Potential by Adam Grant offers a framework for raising aspirations and exceeding expectations that can bring valuable insights for both instructors and staff. Join this informal lunch-and-learn series to explore ways to connect with colleagues and help our students reach their potential through an enjoyable read. FREE hardback copies of the book and a free lunch will be provided to those who register through Workday AND complete this application form (https://forms.office.com/r/E85MJFYw0N) by Monday, February 10.
Participants are expected to attend regularly and participate actively in discussions. We will meet on the following dates:
Wed, Feb 26, 12pm to 1pm (In-person introductory meeting in Rockville, MK 122, with Zoom option; Books distributed to in-person attendees and free lunch provided)
Wed, Mar 12, 12pm to 1pm (Zoom, Discussion of Prologue and Chapter 1)
Wed, Mar 26, 12pm to 1pm (Zoom, Discussion of Chapters 2 and 3)
Wed, Apr 9, 12pm to 1pm (Zoom; Discussion of Chapters 4 and 5)
Wed, Apr 23, 12pm to 1pm (Zoom; Discussion of Chapters 6 and 7)
Wed, May 7, 12pm to 1pm (Zoom; Discussion of Chapters 8 and 9)
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Explain Grant’s concepts of how skills of character, structures for motivation, and systems of opportunity can impact student and employee success.
- Through discussion, identify strategies for applying concepts from the book to improve our students’ lives and learning experiences.
2/28 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.
2/28 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
2/28 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
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2/28 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.