Kentucky Convergence: Full Schedule

Thank you for attending this year’s Kentucky Convergence Conference! Next year’s conference will be November 7-8, 2024, so save the date and be on the look out for more information in the spring.

November 9-10, 2023
University of Louisville Event and Conference Center at ShelbyHurst Campus
450 North Whittington Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222

Convergence is the single event that brings together professionals in information technology, academic libraries, online learning, and instructional design from all the public and private colleges and universities in Kentucky and the surrounding states. Sponsored by Kentucky post-secondary institutions and private sector partners, Kentucky Convergence is a conference that emphasizes innovations and best practices in the fastest-growing areas of higher education.

Hotel Information

Coming from out of town? You can find area hotel information at https://louisville.edu/conferenceservices/where.

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8:00am EST

Registration (Lobby) and Breakfast (Ballroom)

Thursday November 9, 2023 8:00am - 9:00am EST
Lobby

8:40am EST

Welcome

Thursday November 9, 2023 8:40am - 9:00am EST
Ballroom

9:00am EST

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: Moving Forward with Online Education in the Era of ChatGPT

PowerPoint

Digital tools and techniques abound within higher education. In fact, the flow of new resources seems for many to be accelerating beyond comprehension as demonstrated by the reactions of educators to the rise of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. This keynote session will frame online/digital education both as a fast-changing interdisciplinary field requiring adaptability and as a lever to enact strategic change within our institutions. Tactics and resources for “moving forward” accordingly will be shared, and dialogue will be invited.

The PowerPoint presentation is available at http://bit.ly/thompson_convergence2023

Speakers

Dr. Kelvin Thompson

Vice Provost for Online Strategy and Teaching Innovation at the University of Louisville, University of Louisville

A popular speaker and facilitator, Dr. Kelvin Thompson regularly addresses groups throughout the US on topics related to online/blended learning and educational technology while he serves as the Vice Provost for Online Strategy and Teaching Innovation at the University of Louisville... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 9:00am - 10:15am EST
Ballroom

Keynote

10:15am EST

Networking Break

Thursday November 9, 2023 10:15am - 10:30am EST

10:30am EST

POST KEYNOTE DISCUSSION: Moving Forward with Online Education in the Era of ChatGPT

Speakers

Dr. Kelvin Thompson

Vice Provost for Online Strategy and Teaching Innovation at the University of Louisville, University of Louisville

Thursday November 9, 2023 10:30am - 11:15am EST
Room 211

Birds of a Feather

10:30am EST

Lightning Talks (See description for topics)

"Compliance on a Budget: Leveraging Power BI & SharePoint for Regular and Substantive Interaction (RSI) Compliance" - Jennifer Hurwitz and Lauren Bae

On July 1, 2021, the final rules on Distance Education and Innovation went into effect. At that time, the U.S. Department of Education updated the definition of distance education, which is used in determining financial aid eligibility for higher education institutions. "Regular and substantive interaction" was added to the definition, clarifying the difference between "distance education" and "correspondence education". Regular and substantive interaction (RSI) is critical for effective teaching; research shows that teacher-student interactions are essential to learning. Moreover, non-compliance with RSI could have significant financial consequences. Institutions failing to comply with RSI requirements could potentially lose eligibility for Title IV funds and could be required to return financial aid disbursed for courses found in violation. Therefore, an increased focus on the instructor's role in online course delivery and the importance of RSI between the instructor and students is critical for institutions to adopt. However, many universities are decentralized, which makes tracking RSI compliance difficult. Consequently, team members at the University of Louisville's Office of Online Learning designed a process using existing office tools and applications to boost online faculty compliance with the required annual RSI attestation. By implementing SharePoint, Power Automate, and Power BI, this business process solution saves cost but more importantly reduces administrative burden through automated communication while consistently tracking and reporting faculty attestations to each college and department. The purpose of this lightning talk is to provide an overview of the process, to impart lessons learned, and to share helpful resources.

"Avoid or Assimilate: Detecting AI Content in the Classroom" - Matthew Kirby

This lightning talk will offer an overview of how to detect AI-generated content in student work and the problems with relying on AI-detectors. The talk concludes with some tips and strategies on how to avoid AI-generated responses in the classroom.

Speakers

Jennifer Hurwitz

Distance Education Compliance Manager, University of Louisville

I manage campus-wide compliance efforts to meet regulatory and accreditation requirements for distance education activities. In this role, I spend the majority of my time researching and implementing best practices related to regulatory and accreditation compliance in collaboration... Read More →

Lauren Bae

Online Program Manager, University of Louisville

Lauren serves as the Online Learning Program Manager at the University of Louisville. In addition to shepherding potential online programs through the review and approval process and coordinating with data, marketing, and enrollment services teams to prepare programs for launch, she... Read More →

Matthew Kirby

Assistant Professor, Kentucky Community and Technical College

Matthew Kirby is an Assistant Professor in the Arts and Humanities division at SKYCTC in Bowling Green, KY. He teaches art and art history courses while composing paintings in his home studio.

ConvergenceLightningTalk Toolkit pdf

2023KY Convergence 8.25.2023 pptx

AVOID OR ASSIMILATE pptx

Avoid or Assimilate pdf

Thursday November 9, 2023 10:30am - 11:15am EST
Room 15

Lightning Talk

10:30am EST

Identity Management Out of Control

Murray State University recently implemented a new identity and access management (IAM) platform, Rapid Identity, to provide a more streamlined login and self-service experience for the campus community. This session will provide attendees with an overview of IAM, how MSUâ€™s identity management and authentication systems were becoming unmanageable, and a walkthrough of their implementation.

Speakers

Laura Castleberry

Director, IS Service Management, Murray State University

Laura has worked in Information Systems at Murray State University since 2005. Laura started as part-time, supporting various teaching, learning, and technology applications, and providing user support for the campus community. Since then, Laura has taken on additional roles and responsibilities... Read More →

Duane Dycus

Information Security Officer, Murray State University

2023 KyConvergence IdentityManagement pdf

Thursday November 9, 2023 10:30am - 11:15am EST
Room 136A

Presentation

10:30am EST

Brightspace LMS: One Platform for all Learning (D2L)

This presentation offers a comprehensive overview of Brightspace, the fastest growing Learning Management System (LMS) in Higher Education known for its user-friendly interface, adaptive learning tools, and robust features. It highlights how Brightspace tailors learning experiences to individual student needs, fosters engagement, and improves outcomes.

Key aspects covered include collaborative tools for seamless instructor-student interaction, administrative features for streamlined course management, and insights into future innovations within the platform. The abstract is suited for educators, instructional designers, and administrators looking to leverage technology for educational enhancement.

Attendees will gain insights into how Brightspace reshapes education, making learning more engaging, efficient, and personalized for each learner. This presentation aims to serve both newcomers and those seeking to maximize the potential of Brightspace.

Speakers

Danielle Burt

D2L

Greg Sixt

Senior Account Executive, D2L

Thursday November 9, 2023 10:30am - 11:15am EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

11:15am EST

Networking Break

Thursday November 9, 2023 11:15am - 11:30am EST

11:30am EST

Digital Accessibility in Higher Education

Speakers

Cristina Tofan

Eastern Kentucky University

Laura Edwards

Associate Director, Discovery and Metadata, Eastern Kentucky University Libraries

Laura Edwards is Associate Director of Discovery and Metadata at Eastern Kentucky University Libraries, where she leads efforts to optimize metadata and discovery in the Libraries’ web presence including library management systems, link resolvers, the EKU Encompass digital repository... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 11:30am - 12:15pm EST
Room 14

Birds of a Feather

11:30am EST

Lightning Talks (See description for topics)

"AI Chat: Love It, Hate It, Try It" - Patsy Carruthers

Let's Chat! AI bots such as ChatGPT present both opportunities and challenges for teaching and learning. This will be quick overview for those with little to no experience with AI Chat. Bring a laptop or mobile device to try it out after seeing it in action and learning a few guiding tips..

"Expanding Horizons: CS+ X Education at Small Liberal Arts Schools" - Sayani Sarkar

"In this lightning talk, I explore the transformative potential of CS+X education within the unique context of small liberal arts schools. By integrating computer science (CS) with diverse disciplines, small liberal arts schools provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them to navigate the complex challenges of the modern world.
The talk will begin by highlighting the advantages of small liberal arts schools in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and personalized learning environments. It emphasizes how the fusion of CS with other disciplines expands students' horizons and enhances their problem-solving abilities. Key elements of successful CS+X education at small liberal arts schools are discussed, including developing a diverse skill set, cultivating creativity and critical thinking, and preparing for various career paths. The talk showcases success stories and real-world applications of CS+X education within small liberal arts schools. From leveraging CS to analyze social phenomena to utilizing technology in the arts and humanities, attendees will discover the diverse opportunities and outcomes made possible by CS+X programs.
Attendees will gain an understanding of the transformative potential of CS+X education at small liberal arts schools, appreciating the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, customized curricula, and the mentorship of dedicated faculty. The talk concludes by highlighting the importance of preparing well-rounded graduates who possess technical skills, a broader perspective, and a deep appreciation for the liberal arts. "

Speakers

Patsy Carruthers

Senior Director, UK Online, University of Kentucky

Patsy Carruthers is Senior Director of UK Online. A Murray native, Patsy earned her bachelor's degree in journalism and English from Murray State University and her MA Ed. from Northern Kentucky University. She has worked as a journalist, an educator, and a leader in educational media... Read More →

Sayani Sarkar

Bellarmine university

Dr. Sayani Sarkar joined Bellarmine University's Computer Science area in the fall of 2021. She earned her Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from the School of Computing and Informatics at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 2021. For her dissertation research, she investigated... Read More →

Nathan Johnson

AI Chat basics pdf

Thursday November 9, 2023 11:30am - 12:15pm EST
Room 15

Lightning Talk

11:30am EST

Is "Ungrading" a Good Fit for You?

"Ungrading" is an increasingly popular topic in higher education. Applying it isn't just a matter of not assigning points, but involves rethinking the power dynamics of education. When you adopt it as a philosophy you shift the power from your hands to your students. You provide guidance and paths toward mastery while leaving room for student goals. This session will explain the main characteristics and prompt you to assess if "Ungrading" is a good choice for you and your students.

Speakers

Juli Gatling

Special Initiatives Research and Development Lead, Kentucky Community and Technical College System

Dr. Juli Gatling teaches graduate level Digital Game-based Learning, is a faculty developer/instructional designer, leads special initiatives at the KCTCS Office of Teaching and Learning, and is co-founder of FacultyFYI.com.She's a confirmed multipotentialite, which she thinks is... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 11:30am - 12:15pm EST
Room 136A

Presentation

11:30am EST

Learning by Doing: How I Brought Robotic Process Automation (RPA) into the Classroom

Speakers

Alisha M Harper

Executive Director for Graduate Programs, Bellarmine University

Alisha Harper is an Associate Professor of Accounting at Bellarmine University. She received her B.A. from Shepherd University, her J.D. from the University of Louisville, and a LL.M. in Taxation from Georgetown University. Prior to joining the Bellarmine faculty, Alisha worked for... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 11:30am - 12:15pm EST
Room 211

Presentation

11:30am EST

Exploring AI in the Classroom (Adobe)

With the avalanche of new challenges, new technologies, and new ways of communicating, we all need creative skills to thrive amid change. How can we best prepare students for their future? With generative AI, students can experiment with various forms of media, including text, audio, and visual content, and explore creative expressions that they may not have previously considered. Join Eric Rowse, Senior Solutions Consultant, as he shows practical ways to tap into this potential using Adobe Firefly and accessing Adobe Sensei features. It has the potential to act as a powerful tool that can inspire and enhance the creative process by generating new and unique ideas.

Speakers

Eric Rowse

Adobe

Eric Rowse is a Senior Solutions Consultant at Adobe. Before joining Adobe in 2012, Eric's history has included Creative Suite instructor, adjunct professor, art director, animator, and pre-web CD-ROM era designer. Eric is a firm believer that passion and vision, when paired with... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 11:30am - 12:15pm EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

12:15pm EST

Lunch

Thursday November 9, 2023 12:15pm - 1:45pm EST
Ballroom

1:45pm EST

Open Education: A Q&A Roundtable Discussion

Open Education (OE) is a rapidly growing educational ecosystem that touches on all the themes explored at KY Convergence (Pedagogy, Technology, Processes and Policies, and Design) and has the potential to expand access to learning, disrupt inequitable structures in higher education, and increase engagement in the classroom. OE includes a spectrum of activities from teaching with open educational resources (OER), to using open pedagogy, to adapting and authoring OER, to co-creating OER with students, to open SOTL. This roundtable discussion will explore the opportunities and challenges of OE. After the moderators share a brief introduction to OE, a diverse group of Kentucky open education practitioners will discuss these issues with each other and with the audience.

Panel:
Colleen Deel, Open Educational Resources Librarian, NKU
Leah Halliday, Coordinator-Affordable Learning, KYVL
Courtney Jordan, Library Director, BCTC
Stephen Krueger, Affordable Course Content Librarian, UK
Kathleen Richardson, Technical Services Librarian, BCTC
Micah Logan, Associate Director, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning, WKU
Dorothea Browder, Associate Professor, Department of History, WKU

Speakers

Kelly Smith

Director of Collections & Discovery, Eastern Kentucky University

Kelly Smith is the Director of Collections and Discovery at Eastern Kentucky University Libraries. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1994, and a Masters of Science in Library and Information Science degree from Simmons... Read More →

Todd Seguin

West Kentucky University

Thursday November 9, 2023 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Room 14

Birds of a Feather

1:45pm EST

Lightning Talks (See description for topics)

"Mindful Scrolling: Mindfulness Rhetoric and The Digital Realm" - Sarah Beach

This Lightning Round presentation is a sample of a piece of multi-modal scholarship on Buddhist mindfulness, rhetoric, and digital media. The piece will be submitted to a digital rhetoric journal as a guided meditation that supports media consumption through the lens of mindfulness, an Eastern philosophy with applications for the Western world. As a certified meditation coach and rhetorical scholar, my work blends mindfulness with the study of affect, embodiment, ambience, and circulation in digital spheres. In our current milieu, mindfulness may serve as one approach to re-frame our approaches to digital literacy, political communication online, classroom behaviors, and myriad other spheres. Mindfulness can serve as a rhetorical approach, as it asks questions regarding who and what counts as a rhetor, how we engage with digital technologies, and how humans as a species can engage with the changing arenas of AI, VR, ubiquitous technological devices, and rapid technological advances. For the Lightning Round, I propose to lead a short (5-6 minute) sample of the meditation project in person and then provide a brief explanation of my research and its applications in the classroom, rhetorical scholarship, the workplace, and beyond. I will also provide a handout with further information and links to find out more.

"Let's Be Still (And Other Nice Things): Lessons from Ancient Rome for Today's Higher Education Professionals" - Adam Shaw

Regardless of our role in higher education, we can be pulled in countless directions: technical support, instructional design, faculty development workshops, and all other sorts of things. Couple this with the demands on our attention from social media, advances in technology, and everything else going on in the world, and it becomes increasingly difficult to not only focus on the success of the courses we're developing, the projects we're leading, and the faculty we're working with, but to find satisfaction in these things. While many of these demands are the result of extraordinary advances and their effects on the pace of our lives, this longing for peace and fulfillment is nothing new. It dates back centuries to the Stoics and Ancient Rome (and beyond).

In this lightning talk—or, maybe think of it as a mental health check—we’ll explore some small, digestible takeaways from Stoic philosophy as they relate to the demands on higher education professionals in design and support settings today. Participants will leave not only with strategies they can immediately fold into their day-to-day roles, but with easy-to-use resources they can explore for further learning.

Speakers

Sarah Beach

Assistant Professor, Spalding University

Sarah Beach is an Assistant Professor at Spalding University in Louisville, Kentucky. Her work focuses on the rhetorical implications of emotion in digital spaces through various lenses, including ambience, circulation, embodiment, and affect. In particular, memetic practices in digital... Read More →

Adam Shaw

University of Louisville

Adam Shaw is an Instructional Technology Consultant, Sr. for the University of Louisville's Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning. He has oven ten years of experience in instructional design and faculty development across the K-12 and higher education industries.

Thursday November 9, 2023 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Room 15

Lightning Talk

1:45pm EST

From TikTok to the Online Classroom: Using Short-Form Videos to Enhance College-Level Lectures and Assignments

"Social media platforms are widely popular, and leveraging them for active learning and interaction opportunities in online courses is not a new concept. However, generational groups engage with specific platforms differently. As of March 2023, TikTok has surpassed 150 million users in the United States alone and is particularly popular with Generation Z users. This session will answer the following questions:

Why is this video style so appealing and what is the theory behind its impact?

How can you create "TikTok Style" microlearning videos for your students?

What are the best practices for creating an assignment incorporating TikTok?

What are possible concerns and considerations when using or assigning TikTok videos?

What are alternative technology platforms you can leverage to create similar videos?

The session will conclude with a case study highlighting how TikTok was incorporated into an ENG 101 course.

Speakers

Melissa Cline-Douthitt

University of Louisville

Melissa Cline-Douthitt is an Instructional Designer for the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Louisville and also teaches online and hybrid English Composition courses as an adjunct instructor at Jefferson Community and Technical College. She holds a Master... Read More →

Danny McDonald

Instructional Design, University of Louisville

Danny McDonald, PhD is an Instructional Technology Consultant, Sr. for the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning. He earned his B.S. degree (1998) in mathematics, an M.Div. (2008) in theology/philosophy, and a PhD (2014) in philosophy. Danny has over 23 years of experience in education... Read More →

Deb Hatfield

University of Louisville

Deb Hatfield, M. Ed., is an Instructional Designer at the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Louisville. Deb has a B.S in business (1992) from Spalding University and an M. Ed., (1999) in education from the University of Louisville (UofL). As a member of... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Room 211

Presentation

1:45pm EST

Guiding Student Usage of Generative AI

Speakers

Nedim Slijepcevic

Assistant Professor of Instructional Design, Eastern Kentucky University

Thursday November 9, 2023 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Room 136A

Presentation

1:45pm EST

Customizing a CBE Vision at Scale (Canvas LMS)

In one year, a college using Canvas used Canvas Credentials to issue more than 10,000 micro-credentials, but wanted a more automated way to integrate data from Canvas Outcomes. Learn how the Instructure Custom Development team to develop a Credentials-Outcomes Alignment Tool that helps turn their outcomes assessment process into a more valuable and impactful experience for students and faculty. Also learn how this tool is being used in a county-wide workforce initiative as well.

Speakers

Jason Richter

Custom Development Directo, Instructure

Currently I am serving as a Custom Development Director at Instructure, the makers of Canvas. In my current role I am assisting Higher Education Institutions scope, build and deploy custom-built software applications. These could be customizations to Canvas or be completely unrelated... Read More →

Thursday November 9, 2023 1:45pm - 2:30pm EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

2:30pm EST

Networking Break

Thursday November 9, 2023 2:30pm - 2:45pm EST

2:45pm EST

Exploring AI in the Classroom (Adobe) - Repeat Session

Speakers

Eric Rowse

Adobe

Thursday November 9, 2023 2:45pm - 3:15pm EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

2:45pm EST

It's All in the Template: How Using Templates for Course Building Supports Quality Courses

This session will examine the benefits of using a good template. It will examine the components of a good template and how those components relate to the Quality Matters standards. Templates are useful for any course regardless of the mode of course delivery. This session will be helpful to instructional designers and faculty.

Speakers

Janice Poston

Curriculum Designer, Simmons College of Kentucky

Dr. Janice Poston has spent 31 years in higher education having served as an academic librarian, instructional developer, instructional technologist, adjunct faculty, and currently as Curriculum Designer at Simmons College of Kentucky. Janice holds a BS in Elementary Education, a... Read More →

It's All in the Template Convergence 2023 pptx

Thursday November 9, 2023 2:45pm - 3:30pm EST
Room 211

Presentation

2:45pm EST

Swinging with Syntax: ChatGPT's Guide to Acing SOL and LO

Speakers

Dr. Bridget Prichard

Senior Instructional Designer, Morehead State University

Thursday November 9, 2023 2:45pm - 3:30pm EST
Room 14

Presentation

2:45pm EST

The Value of Storytelling in Teaching and Learning to Enhance Engagement and Critical Thinking Skills

Speakers

Mary Sciaraffa

Professor, Eastern Kentucky University

Dr. Mary Sciaraffa, is a Professor in Child and Family Studies at Eastern KentuckyUniversity. She holds a doctorate degree in Curriculum & Instruction from Louisiana State University. She is also a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) through the National Council on Family Relations... Read More →

Mary Henson

Eastern Kentucky University

Thursday November 9, 2023 2:45pm - 3:30pm EST
Room 136A

Presentation

2:45pm EST

Boost the Digital Education Experience for In-Person and Remote Students: An Interactive ViewSonic Demonstration (Encore)

A case study and demonstration on how to increase student engagement with the ViewSonic interactive flat panel and MyViewBoard software. Learn how many universities and colleges have successfully increased virtual participation with the latest interactive classroom technologies.

Speakers

Dan Sharpe

PD Trainer, Encore

Dan Sharpe is a Senior Professional Development Trainer for ViewSonic.

Thursday November 9, 2023 2:45pm - 3:30pm EST
Room 15

Sponsor Presentation

3:30pm EST

Networking Break

Thursday November 9, 2023 3:30pm - 3:45pm EST

3:45pm EST

Lightning Talks (See description for topics)

"Tutoring Students Simplified with Technologies" - Mel Jones

During the session, I will demonstrate how I tutor my students online. I will share some strategies and techniques by incorporating useful technologies in the process.

"Course Marking & More: Institutional Supports for OER" - Leah Halliday

Open educational resources (OER) are freely available, openly licensed educational materials that can be used to replace or supplement traditional textbooks. OER can help to reduce the cost of education and improve student outcomes. Affordable Learning Kentucky is a program of the Kentucky Virtual Library and the KY Council for Postsecondary Education that is dedicated to promoting student success and educational equity by leveraging affordable resources and supporting the adoption, adaptation, and creation of OER in the Commonwealth. Course marking is one way that institutions can support the uptake of OER. Course marking is the process of identifying courses that use OER. This can be done by creating a database of OER courses or by adding OER information to course catalogs. Course marking can help students to find courses that use OER and can also help instructors to identify OER that they can use in their courses. This lightning talk will highlight some approaches to course marking that institutions can consider as well as other ways that institutions can support the uptake and use of open and affordable resources.

Speakers

Mei Jones

Associate Professor, Henderson Community College

I am an associate professor teaching math courses since 2012 at Henderson Community College. I started teaching math courses since 2004 at Ivy Tech Community College and University of Southern Indiana. I received my Bachelor of Science in Math and Statistics from Purdue University... Read More →

Leah Halliday

Coordinator, Affordable Learning KY, KY Council on Postsecondary Education

Leah Halliday is the coordinator of Affordable Learning Kentucky, a Kentucky Virtual Library program focused on supporting and promoting the use of affordable and open educational resources to foster student success and equity at institutions of higher education across the Commonwealth... Read More →

Destination Open Handout v3 pdf

The Open Road ALKY Convergence 2023 pdf

Thursday November 9, 2023 3:45pm - 4:30pm EST
Room 15

Lightning Talk

3:45pm EST

Affirmative Action and the Supreme Court: Impact of Decision on Diversity Equity and Inclusion in Higher Education and the Workplace

Speakers

Jennifer Jackson

Faith Jackson

Thursday November 9, 2023 3:45pm - 4:30pm EST
Room 14

Presentation

3:45pm EST

The Future of Learning: Integrating AI into Higher Education

This session will offer a brief introduction to artificial intelligence, specifically large language models like ChatGPT. There will be an overview of how to detect AI-generated content in student work and the problems with relying on AI-detectors. The session ends with some tips and strategies on how to avoid AI-generated responses in the classroom and challenges that students and teachers will face with artificial intelligence in education.

Speakers

Matthew Kirby

Assistant Professor, Kentucky Community and Technical College

Matthew Kirby is an Assistant Professor in the Arts and Humanities division at SKYCTC in Bowling Green, KY. He teaches art and art history courses while composing paintings in his home studio.

Future of Learning pptx

Future of Learning Notes pdf

Thursday November 9, 2023 3:45pm - 4:30pm EST
Room 211

Presentation

3:45pm EST

The Road to Exemplary (Anthology ECP Rubric)

Although created by Blackboard, the Anthology Exemplary Course Program (ECP) rubric is learning management system agnostic. It is an excellent tool to self-assess the quality of your online courses. This session will provide actionable steps toward exemplary online teaching and a step-by-step resource if you want to tackle the full rubric (or to use as you support faculty).

Speakers

Juli Gatling

Special Initiatives Research and Development Lead, Kentucky Community and Technical College System

Thursday November 9, 2023 3:45pm - 4:30pm EST
Room 136A

Presentation

3:45pm EST

Exploring AI in the Classroom (Adobe) - Repeat Session

Speakers

Eric Rowse

Adobe

Thursday November 9, 2023 3:45pm - 4:30pm EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

4:30pm EST

Reception

Thursday November 9, 2023 4:30pm - 6:30pm EST
Ballroom

8:00am EST

Registration (Lobby) and Breakfast (Ballroom)

Friday November 10, 2023 8:00am - 9:15am EST

9:15am EST

Exploring the Potential and Practical Applications of Generative AI Tools for Instructional Designers

"As instructional designers seek to improve the online learning experience, they are turning to emerging technologies like ChatGPT for assistance. ChatGPT and similar tools use artificial intelligence to generate human-like responses to written prompts. This session will explore the potential and practical applications of using these tools in instructional design.

Participants will engage in a lively discussion about the ways in which generative AI can be used to personalize learning experiences, support collaborative learning, and enhance assessment and evaluation of learner progress and performance. Ethical considerations related to the use of of these tools will also be addressed as well as potential limitations.

This session is intended for instructional designers and educators who are interested in exploring the ways in which generative AI can be used to revolutionize online learning. Participants will share ideas, ask questions, and learn from one another about the exciting possibilities and practical considerations of using generative AI in instructional design. By the end of the session, participants will have a deeper understanding of how generative AI can be used to enhance the online learning experience and will be equipped with practical strategies for incorporating this technology into their own instructional design practice."

Speakers

Robin Zahrndt

University of Louisville

Robin Zahrndt is an Instructional Designer and Program Manager for the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Louisville. She has an M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning and a B.S in Animal Health. Prior to her position at the University of Louisville, Robin was the... Read More →

Friday November 10, 2023 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Room 14

Birds of a Feather

9:15am EST

Lightning Talks (See description for topics)

"Straightforward Mapping Using the Web-Based Mapping Platform Felt" - Sarah Watson

Incorporating digital mapping projects into the classroom can be difficult due to the different levels of technical expertise students process and limited course time to dedicate to teaching students the necessary skills to use complex GIS platforms. However, sometimes examining and visualizing spatial data can enhance course learning objectives and provide students with important opportunities to think about data creation and data visualization. This brief talk will highlight one platform that can reduce some of the time and expertise difficulties around adding digital mapping projects to class assignments. Felt is a new multimedia web-based platform that allows for the straightforward creation of maps and spatial narratives. It serves as a productive introduction to digital mapping that can offer a beginning point for students to branch off to more complex software and analysis, or it can be the single platform students use to create assorted visualizations that complement other classroom activities. In this lightning talk, I will highlight some of the features of Felt including how to upload data and generate a simple map, collaborate on projects, and customize style options with an eye toward how this tool can enhance student work in the classroom.

"Using ChatGPT to Teach Ethics" - Gene Kleppinger

I changed my Beginning Ethics class for Fall 2023 to have a strong focus on ChatGPT as an example of generative artificial intelligence. My reasons include: (1) many/most students are aware of ChatGPT and may have used it to create answers for their instructors’ questions; (2) it can be used for good or evil, so it has immediate target value for an ethics class; and (3) I can demonstrate its results openly to inspire students to follow good practices for critical thinking and academic integrity. The first writing assignment consists of reading a text about ethics generated by ChatGPT and critiquing it, describing what it “gets right,” and then supplementing it with examples of relevant moral decisions from their own lives. The AI theme continues through the exploration of nine theories in ethics, focusing in part on how the principles of each theory might be related to answering the general question “How can I use ChatGPT the right way?” After we cover the theories our attention shifts to some issues in current life, such as euthanasia, equality and discrimination, and war and peace. What ChatGPT generates about those issues is both interesting (as basic information) and provocative (as rhetoric for personalized critiques on the various alternative positions). Generative AI tools are extremely powerful, and with great power comes the burden of great responsibility.

Speakers

Sarah Watson

University of Kentucky

Sarah Watson is the Maps & Geospatial Services Manager at the University of Kentucky Libraries. In this role, she oversees the Gwen Curtis Map Collection and GIS Lab, provides consultations related to maps, GIS, and data visualization, and contributes to the development of digital... Read More →

Gene Kleppinger

Manager, Online Learning, Eastern Kentucky University

Dr. Gene Kleppinger is the Online Learning Manager for EKU and also teaches courses in philosophy. He has been the system administrator for the Blackboard Learn LMS since 2000, and has taught philosophy courses face-to-face and online since 1980. He is quite famous for his neckties... Read More →

Straightforward Mapping Watson pdf

Friday November 10, 2023 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Room 15

Lightning Talk

9:15am EST

Humanize Your Digital Spaces

One of the most common complaints that students have about online courses is that the experience leaves them feeling isolated and alone. Some students aren't even sure who their professor is! In this session, we'll discuss solutions for inviting students to learn by building an authentic and approachable teaching presence that prioritizes the human connection.

Speakers

Vanessa Wieland Steele

Instructional Designer, Northern Kentucky University

Vanessa Wieland Steele, M.A. is an instructional designer with Northern Kentucky University. Particular interests in the field of ID in higher education are pedagogy and praxis, ungrading in online classes, academic integrity, and building teacher presence and immediacy.She is currently... Read More →

Humanize Your Online Course Convergence.pptx 1 pdf

Friday November 10, 2023 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Room 211

Presentation

9:15am EST

Using Technology for Assessment of Students with Disabilities

This presentation will demonstrate various technology tools for assessment purposes. These tools are perfect for all students but especially for students with disabilities. Google Forms, Flubaroo, Autocrat, BookCreator, Blooket, SeeSaw, Flip, Wakelet, Jamboard, Canva, Adobe Express, etc are all tools that will be discussed during this presentation.

Speakers

Jamie Mahoney

Associate Professor, Murray State University

Dr. Jamie Mahoney is an Associate Professor in the Adolescent, Career, and Special Education Department at Murray State University. She teaches Special Education courses for dual certification Learning Behavior Disorder/ Elementary or Middle School undergraduate students and graduate... Read More →

JMahoney Kentucky Convergnce Conference 2023 pptx

Friday November 10, 2023 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Room 136A

Presentation

9:15am EST

How to Jumpstart the Conversation on Credentials at your Institution (Instruture)

Microcredentials create a purposeful connection and complementary pathway for true life-long learning. This session will help you jumpstart the conversation about microcredentials and badging at your institution and offer you some practical tips and on-ramps for next steps.
Wondering where to start when it comes to badges and microcredentials? Join the conversation to explore effective strategies and hear lessons learned from innovators building in this area. Leave with ideas, resources, and tips to start the conversation at your institution.

Speakers

Joanna Ray

Instructure

Joanna Ray is a Regional Director for Canvas Credentials at Instructure. Joanna has served in Higher Education for over 17 years and joined Instructure in 2019. As a former Principal eLearning Consultant at Indiana University and Director of Online Learning, she's served as an evangelist... Read More →

Friday November 10, 2023 9:15am - 10:00am EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

10:00am EST

Networking Break

Friday November 10, 2023 10:00am - 10:15am EST

10:15am EST

Technology in the Physical Classroom

Many of our classrooms, lecture halls, and labs have integrated technology; this could be as simple as a projector and laptop, or a more complicated setup with multiple displays and microphones. Students bring their laptops, or perhaps use a cart with institution-provided devices. Exams are given on pencil and paper, or in the LMS and proctored. In this birds-of-a-feather session, we will discuss examples, ideas, and best practices around technology used in the physical classroom.

Speakers

Garrett Wheatley

Director, Technology Support Services, Murray State University

Garrett Wheatley is excited to be a co-chair of the 2023 Kentucky Convergence Conference! Garrett has has worked in different roles in Information Systems at Murray State University since 2004 and currently serves as the Director of Technology Support Services. Having been previously... Read More →

Friday November 10, 2023 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Room 15

Birds of a Feather

10:15am EST

The Future is Now: A Basic Introduction to Generative AI

Speakers

Jeremy Miller

Associate CIO, KCTCS

Jeremy is a higher education technology leader working with a team focused on delivering innovative, secure and scalable solutions. Recognized as a Microsoft MVP, he is passionate about the Community, is the founder of the Central Kentucky Microsoft User Group, and a speaker at various... Read More →

Garrett Dutton

Enterprise Architect, Kentucky Community and Technical College

Friday November 10, 2023 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Room 14

Presentation

10:15am EST

The Reality of Virtual Reality

Do you know the difference between VR, AR, MR, and XR? Why are so many colleges using them? In this presentation, you will learn what VR is, how it can benefit learning, potential pitfalls, and the reality of virtual reality.

Speakers

Beth Case

Instructional Designer, University of Louisville

Dr. Beth Case is the Program Manager for Emerging and Assistive Technology in the Delphi Center at the University of Louisville. She is part of UofL's VR initiative, meeting with faculty to devise pedagogically sound uses of VR in their courses. She loves exploring new technology... Read More →

Reality of Virtual Reality pptx

Friday November 10, 2023 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Room 211

Presentation

10:15am EST

Security Awareness Training from Fortinet (Encore)

Fortinet®, a global leader in broad, integrated and automated cybersecurity solutions offers Security Awareness and Training service for organizations to further protect their security posture by advancing their employees’ cybersecurity skillsets and knowledge. A Fortinet survey found that 73 percent of organizations had at least one intrusion or breach that can be partially attributed to a gap in cybersecurity skills.

Fortinet has designed its new service to address security, IT and compliance leaders’ growing concerns around threats and their workforce maintaining proper cyber hygiene. The Fortinet Security Awareness and Training service reduces the likelihood of a breach caused by an employee falling for a phishing email, clicking on a malicious link or becoming the victim of a social engineering attempt. For compliance-sensitive organizations, the service also helps leaders satisfy regulatory or industry compliance training requirements.

Speakers

Christi Jacob

Encore

Christi Jacob- Fortinet Account Manager- KY SLED;

Friday November 10, 2023 10:15am - 11:00am EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

11:00am EST

Networking Break

Friday November 10, 2023 11:00am - 11:15am EST

11:15am EST

Embracing Change: Navigating the Transition from Original Course View to Ultra Course View in Blackboard

Speakers

Linda Leake

University of Louisville

Aimee Greene

Assistant Director, University of Louisville

Friday November 10, 2023 11:15am - 12:00pm EST
Room 14

Birds of a Feather

11:15am EST

Creating a Story Problem Generator with "R"

Speakers

Ben Stephens

Sullivan University

Hello everyone. I am an educator with 18 years of experience incorporating technology into the learning process. I received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Mild Interventions from the University of Indianapolis. I taught with Carmel Clay Schools... Read More →

Vinh Nguyen

Creating a Story Problem Generator with R pptx

Friday November 10, 2023 11:15am - 12:00pm EST
Room 136A

Presentation

11:15am EST

Picture Perfect: Using Visuals for Memory

Have you ever seen an image and associated it with something specific? Images are great tools instructors can use to help support memory and content retention. During this interactive training you will learn how images are processed in the brain and used to convey messages, share ideas, and teach content. Participants will be introduced to best practice strategies and how to use images.

Speakers

Dawn Griffin

University of Kentucky

Dawn Griffin has been a champion for quality in early care and education for decades. Her experience has been in the classroom and continued as a regional coach, promoting best practices for childcare centers and trainers. Dawn now serves as an Instructional Designer with the Human... Read More →

Friday November 10, 2023 11:15am - 12:00pm EST
Room 211

Presentation

11:15am EST

Enabling CBE & Personalized Learning in the LMS (D2L)

Competency-Based Education (CBE) is revolutionizing higher education by emphasizing skill mastery over traditional time-based learning. Implementing CBE requires a flexible Learning Management System (LMS) that meets diverse student needs. This abstract examines Brightspace, an adaptable LMS supporting CBE in colleges and universities.

Brightspace aligns seamlessly with CBE principles, offering personalized learning paths and granular competency-based learning. Its features include competency mapping tools for clear tracking and assessments, enhancing student progress monitoring. The adaptive nature of Brightspace promotes self-directed learning and empowers students through multimedia resources and personalized feedback. Case studies show that integrating Brightspace into CBE programs improves student engagement and learning outcomes.

This presentation explores how Brightspace reshapes higher education to meet the evolving needs of learners in the 21st century.

Speakers

Greg Sixt

Senior Account Executive, D2L

Danielle Burt

D2L

Friday November 10, 2023 11:15am - 12:00pm EST
Room 136 B

Sponsor Presentation

12:00pm EST

Lunch / Door Prizes

Friday November 10, 2023 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Ballroom