March – All Workshops 🌸
3/3 ELITE After Dark: Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
3/4 ELITE After Dark: Blackboard Learn Ultra Gradebook Overview
3/4 ELITE After Dark: Unlocking the Power of Text: Active Reading Strategies for Student Success
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Engaging Quiet Students: Including Silence in Active Learning
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Get More Power Out of PowerPoint: Features for Faculty
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Transforming Assessments into Assets through Metacognition
3/7 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
3/7 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
3/7 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Improve Document Accessibility with Microsoft 365 Tools
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Strategies for Optimizing Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Finding Reverence in the Workplace and Escaping the Daily Grind
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Brain Breaks
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Let’s Get to the Bottom of This with the Five Why’s
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Microsoft Teams Essentials
3/11 Super Staff Tuesday: Creative Design with Adobe Express
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: YuJa Open Lab via Zoom
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Excel Open Lab: Data Validation
3/11 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
3/13 Community of Practice for LDI Alumni and Participants–Integration of LDI
3/14 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
3/14 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
3/14 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
3/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra – 10 Key Tips & Tricks
3/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra – 10 Key Tips & Tricks
3/26 Using ChatGPT to Support Student Learning
3/28 Blackboard Learn Ultra Basics
3/28 Blackboard Learn Ultra Virtual Office Hours
3/28 Blackboard Learn Ultra In-Person Open Labs
3/28 Converting Original Courses to Blackboard Learn Ultra
3/31 Online Teaching Training Spring II 2025
3/31 Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning Spring II
3/31 Pedagogical Discussion 5: Ensuring Safety and Security in AI Applications
3/3 ELITE After Dark: 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
3/4 ELITE After Dark: Blackboard Learn Ultra Gradebook Overview
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Instructors: Anna Donohoe and Paul Miller
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.
3/4 ELITE After Dark: Unlocking the Power of Text: Active Reading Strategies for Student Success
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.
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Engaging Quiet Students: Including Silence in Active Learning
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Faculty often wish their quiet students would be more active in classroom discussions and activities. This workshop examines the reasons why some students do not participate and what faculty can do to engage and encourage them to contribute their ideas in class.
Outcomes:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Understand why students may be quiet in the classroom.
- Explore the instructor’s role in defining and measuring participation in class.
- Learn best practices for helping quiet students participate in class.
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Get More Power Out of PowerPoint: Features for Faculty
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Instructor: Megan Calvert
Description:
Whether you use PowerPoint to organize lessons or are preparing students for a presentation assignment, this workshop will show you easy ways to “wow” your audience and increase your capabilities. We’ll take a quick tour of several newer features that will allow you to design your slides more quickly, collaborate on projects, embed multimedia, make presentations more interactive and accessible, and more.
Note that Microsoft PowerPoint can be accessed and installed at no cost via www.Microsoft365.com by both students and faculty. Participants should ideally have access to PowerPoint during the workshop to be able to try out features and ask specific questions.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Improve design quickly with artificial intelligence tools such as Designer and Morph
- Use OneDrive for real-time collaboration
- Incorporate multimedia into lessons by embedding videos and creating recordings
- Promote accessibility using the Accessibility Checker, PowerPoint Live, and Presenter Coach
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Transforming Assessments into Assets through Metacognition
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Instructor: Angela Lanier
Description:
Assets are resources that have valuable future benefits. How can we transform learning assessments into assets that have ongoing benefits for both instructors and learners? In this workshop we will review several metacognitive practices that promote reflection, goal setting, or tracking learning progress.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Define metacognition and its benefit to student learning
- Identify at least one course assessment to integrate metacognitive practices
3/7 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.
3/7 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
3/7 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.
3/7 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.
3/7 First Faculty Fridays: Strategies for Optimizing Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Laurent Ndeze
Description:
This workshop examines evidence-based strategies for engaging learners, sustaining their interest, and maximizing their learning outcomes. You will learn how to design engaging activities, promote a positive learning environment, and implement techniques that align with diverse learner needs and preferences. We will work on practical applications that enhance student motivation, participation, and success.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify key factors that influence student engagement
- Identify strategies and techniques that support student motivation and active participation.
- Design learning activities that cater to diverse student needs, and preferences
- Identify and apply assessment methods that promote meaningful feedback, and further student engagement
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Finding Reverence in the Workplace and Escaping the Daily Grind
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Instructor: Phillip Bonner
Description:
Finding reverence at work sounds like an impossible task, but is it? Can we find such a profound emotion in the daily grind? We spend a huge part of our lives in the workplace, and making those hours as meaningful as possible serves to enrich our lives and make us more productive employees. Through discussing ways of seeing the workplace through new eyes and participating in exercises on “reverential collaboration,” and attendees will be able to turn the daily grind into a daily exultation.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Define what it is they revere in life and at work.
- Collaborate more effectively and happily with coworkers.
- Create daily rituals of reverence for work and home.
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Brain Breaks
Time: 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM
Instructor: Cynthia Mauris
Description:
You work hard and forget or delay taking a break during the day. It is important to give your brain a rest, a short rest, so it remains alert. Participate in several fun ways to take a short break and give your brain a boost.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Return to work feeling refreshed and alert
- Practice at least two ways to give your brain a break
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Let’s Get to the Bottom of This with the Five Why’s
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:45 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:
- Explain the purpose of using the 5 Why’s
- Apply the 5 Why’s technique to a classroom or workplace situation
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Microsoft Teams 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 Teams. 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:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- 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
3/11 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.
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: YuJa Open Lab via Zoom
Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
Instructors: Laurent Ndeze
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 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.
3/11 Super Staff Tuesdays: Excel Open Lab: Data Validation
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, participants will be able to:
- Identify different use cases for data validation
- Configure data validation rules to only allow specific data types to be entered
- Create an in-cell dropdown menu to facilitate consistent data entry
- Answer FAQs about data validation applications
3/11 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.
3/12 ChatGPT Open Discussion
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Instructor: Paul Miller
Description:
Engage in a dynamic conversation about ChatGPT, its evolving landscape, and its potential future impact. This session is a platform for sharing experiences, concerns, insights, and innovations related to the tool.
Outcomes:
- Reflect upon personal and shared experiences with ChatGPT in various domains.
- Address questions, challenges, and opportunities tied to the platform.
- Foster a collaborative environment for continuous learning and growth around ChatGPT.
3/13 Community of Practice for LDI Alumni and Participants–Integration of LDI
Time: 11:00 AM – 11:00 AM
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, participants 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
3/14 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.
3/14 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
3/14 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.
3/18 Blackboard Learn Ultra – 10 Key Tips & Tricks
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 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:
On completion, 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
3/18 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:
On completion, 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
3/26 Using ChatGPT to Support Student Learning
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Instructors: Paul Miller
Description:
Unlock the potential of AI-driven language models in fostering student learning with our Using ChatGPT to Support Student Learning Workshop! This interactive, hands-on workshop will explore the integration of ChatGPT into teaching and learning practices to provide personalized assistance, feedback, and resources to students on their journey to success!
Outcomes:
- Understand the fundamentals of ChatGPT and its potential applications in various educational settings, including personalized tutoring, academic support, and skill development.
- Utilize ChatGPT to provide instant, customized feedback to students, promoting self-directed learning and fostering a growth mindset.
- Leverage ChatGPT as a virtual teaching assistant, helping students with homework, project guidance, and answering questions on various subjects.
- Implement best practices for using ChatGPT ethically, responsibly, and inclusively, with a focus on mitigating potential biases and avoiding over-reliance on AI-generated content.
- Collaborate and communicate with a growing community of ChatGPT users at MC, sharing insights, ideas, and best practices.
3/28 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.
3/28 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
3/28 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
Register in Workday for Takoma Park
Register in Workday for Rockville
Register in Workday for Germantown
3/28 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.
3/31 Online Teaching Training Spring II 2025
Time: The Online Teaching training is a 7-week asynchronous online course that begins: Mon. Mar. 31 and ends Sun. May 18, 2025.
Instructor: Tom Cantu, Paul Miller
Description:
***Registration is open only to those who have received approvals from their discipline dean and the Dean of the Virtual Campus.
Begins: Mon. Mar. 31, 2025
Ends: Sun. May 18, 2025
Delivery Mode: Online in Blackboard
Prerequisites: Completion of Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning (formerly SRT training).
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 guides 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.
Participants will design an online or blended course and develop a course template consisting of a syllabus, orientation, and one module that meets the competency demonstration criteria including the 22 Essential Quality Matters Standards, Higher Education Rubric, 7th Ed. The course template is revised until it serves as a model to follow and a set of page templates for building the rest of the course.
Many professors require an additional semester after completing the training to finish building the entire course.
Notes: While teaching remotely using Zoom is known as live or synchronous online teaching, the Online Teaching training will guide professors through creating an asynchronous online or blended 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:
By the end of this workshop, 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.
3/31 Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning Spring II
Time: Asynchronous Offering
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.
Series Elements:
The Digital Fundamentals for Teaching and Learning course will take five weeks. The course is completed as a cohort, with faculty expected to begin on the defined start date, keep pace with weekly activities, participate in discussion activities, and complete a fully functional Blackboard course with two working modules by the course’s end date.
Weekly course topics include:
- Navigating Blackboard
- Building Blackboard Content
- Using Web Conferencing software in Blackboard
- Assessing Student Performance Using Blackboard
- Developing and Using Multimedia for Blackboard
Upon completing the course, participants will create a working Blackboard teaching site highlighting instructor presence, multimedia elements to promote student engagement, and other elements taught throughout the course.
Please note:
- This course is not intended for those who have previously completed Digital Fundamentals or Structured Remote Teaching Training (offered in 2020).
- This course is required for all full and part-time instructors at MC.
- Faculty who cannot register for the course within five days of the start date must register for the next available section.
- Participants can be dropped from DFTL without penalty if done within the first week of the start date
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Effectively manage course materials in remote and face-to-face settings by mastering the navigation of Blackboard Ultra.
- Design a user-friendly course welcome page, organize the syllabus and files, and contextualize web links to improve navigation and student engagement.
- Enhance course management and student interaction through Zoom integration, structured discussions, and optional use of Blackboard’s Cloud Collaboration tools.
- Create, manage, and assess assignments and tests within Blackboard. Use the Gradebook to track and report student progress.
- Review creative alternative assessment strategies, optionally incorporating rubrics and randomized assessments to support academic integrity.
- Integrate multimedia, improve course accessibility with Blackboard Ally, and craft engaging announcements to enhance content clarity and student engagement.
3/31 Pedagogical Discussion 5: Ensuring Safety and Security in AI Applications
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Phil Bonner
Description:
Address the safety and security concerns associated with AI in education. Explore best practices for safeguarding student data, protecting privacy, and ensuring the secure implementation of AI technologies. Participants will discuss their approaches to handling safety and security challenges in AI applications.
Outcomes:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Articulate at least three key safety and security concerns associated with AI in education.
- Identify and explain at least three best practices for safeguarding student data and protecting privacy when implementing AI technologies.