OLC Accelerate Best-in-Track Webinar Series

Trending Online, Digital and Blended Learning Topics

Home > Events > Webinars > Webinars > OLC Accelerate 2025 Best-In-Track Webinar Series

Join the Online Learning Consortium for a dynamic series of webinars showcasing research-backed practices, strategies, and ideas from the OLC Community.

Attendees selected each of these presentations—with topics including designing engaging and valuable discussion boards, fair use in the age of GenAI, converting exams into AI-powered learning labs, and courageous leadership through conversation—as best in their track at the OLC Accelerate 2025 conference last fall.

This series is truly for the community, by the community.

Learner Success, Engagement, and Empowerment

Discussion Boards That Don’t Suck

February 4, 2026 | 3:00 – 4:00 pm (ET)

Discussion boards don’t have to be boring—or painful. This practical webinar explores why online discussions often fall flat and how small, intentional design changes can transform them. You’ll see real examples, creative strategies, and ready-to-use activities that spark meaningful interaction and make discussion boards engaging for both students and instructors.

Presenters:

  • Sean Nufer, Senior Director of Teaching and Learning – TCS Education System
  • Veronica Estrada, Faculty Council Chair – Pasadena City College
  • Mark Labbett, Senior Instructional Designer – TCS Education System
  • Ruben Cortez, Professor – Pacific Oaks College

Professional Development, Quality Assurance, and Support

Fair Use in the Age of GenAI: Navigating Copyright Challenges in Educational Contexts

February 11, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm (ET)

As generative AI reshapes teaching and learning, questions about copyright and fair use are harder than ever to ignore. This webinar helps educators navigate the legal and ethical challenges of using AI in educational contexts. Explore how U.S. fair use applies to AI, review emerging legal guidance, and leave with practical tools, checklists, and strategies to support responsible, informed use of generative AI.

Presenter:

  • Wendy Wallberg, JD, LL.M., Associate Professor – Lynn University

Innovative and Effective Digital Learning Design

How ChatGPT Turned My Final Exams Into AI-Powered Learning Labs

February 17, 2026 | 2:30 – 3:30 pm (ET)

What if final exams became opportunities for deeper learning instead of AI policing? This webinar showcases a practical two-part exam model that balances academic integrity with real-world AI use. Learn how controlled, ethical AI integration can strengthen critical thinking, boost student confidence, and improve honesty—plus walk away with ready-to-use templates, prompts, and policy language.

Presenter:

  • Fred Aebli, Lecturer / Program Co-Coordinator – The Pennsylvania State University

Leadership, Partnerships, and Organizational Strategy

Speak Up: Courageous Leadership Through Conversation

February 25, 2026 | 2:00 – 3:00 pm (ET)

Silence can be costly—but courageous conversation creates change. This webinar explores how open, honest dialogue helps leaders build trust, strengthen teams, and navigate high-stakes challenges. You’ll examine the impact of silence, learn why we avoid difficult conversations, and gain practical tools for engaging with candor, empathy, and confidence to foster transparency, connection, and meaningful progress.

Presenters:

  • Carey Hansard, Associate Dean, Academic Innovation – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Kamille Leptz, Ed.D., Senior Director of Instructional Design & Development – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Virtual | March 3-5, 2026

OLC Innovate 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. Join us as we challenge our teaching and learning paradigms, reimagine the learning experience, and ideate on how disruptions in education today will shape the innovative classroom of tomorrow.

 

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing to visit this site you agree to our use of cookies. More info