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Keynote

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

11:15am – 12:30pm US Eastern Time Zone

Home > Conferences > OLC Innovate 2025 > OLC Innovate 2025 > Keynote – Dr. Enilda Romero-Hall

Dr. Enilda Romero-Hall - Keynote Speaker

Associate Professor
College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
University of Tennessee Knoxville

Keynote Title

“Navigating the Future of Networked Learning: Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats”

Abstract

In today’s interconnected world, we live and work in dynamic networked environments. Educational institutions are no exception; staff, students, and instructors are deeply connected through knowledge networks. These networks play a pivotal role in shaping the learning experience. There are also daily interactions within informal networks crucial for personal and professional growth. With the widespread use of smartphones and mobile apps, many of these networked learning interactions are now technology-mediated within online social communities. These communities can provide social support, academic guidance, and career development opportunities, offering spaces for users to grow, learn, connect, and belong. However, the reality is that participation in networked knowledge societies also presents many challenges and concerns. In this keynote address, I will elaborate on the strengths and weaknesses of networked learning within online social communities. How can networked learning support continuous professional development and lifelong learning? We will also consider the opportunities and threats. Can we bridge the digital divide to ensure equitable access to networked learning opportunities? How can we ensure the privacy and security of learners’ data in networked learning environments? Join me as we navigate the future of networked learning together!

Speaker Bio

Dr. Enilda Romero-Hall is Associate Professor in the Learning, Design, and Technology program at The University of Tennessee Knoxville (UTK). She is also a Faculty Fellow in the UTK College of Education Health and Human Services Office of Access & Engagement. She serves as the Chair for the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Instructional Technology Special Interest Group and as an advising editor for the Feminist Pedagogy for Teaching Online digital guide. In her research, she is interested in the design and development of interactive multimedia, faculty and learners’ digital literacy, and networked learning in online social communities. She is the author of the edited volume Research Methods in Learning Design and Technology published by Routledge and the forthcoming book Feminist Pedagogy for Teaching Online that will be published by Athabasca University Press. You can connect with Dr. Romero-Hall at: https://www.enildaromero.net/

Virtual | April 1-3, 2025

OLC Innovate, a joint conference presented by OLC and MERLOT, provides a path for innovators of all experience levels and backgrounds to share best practices, test new ideas, and collaborate on driving forward online, digital, and blended learning.

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