Casting a Spell or Spellbound? Celebrating 30 Years of Online Learning Magic

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Florence Williams, University of Central Florida and Jennifer Zaur, University of Arizona Global Campus, Accelerate 2024 Program Co-Chairs 

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Visualize a grand spectacle of wonder ahead! This year marks the 30th Anniversary of the OLC (Online Learning Consortium) Accelerate conference. As we celebrate three decades of accelerating online learning worldwide at OLC Accelerate 2024, expect to hear from our keynotes, Dr. C. Edward Watson on Tuesday, and Dr. Christina Katopodis on Wednesday, and other engaging speakers, throughout the multiple pathways of learning we have curated for you. As you attend sessions, workshops and networking events under the theme of “30 Years of Magic: Envisioning a New Era of Digital Learning, you will learn tips and tricks for creating the perfect spellbinding journey for your online learning community. Members and participants will gather at the magical Disney Swan and Dolphin Resorts in Orlando, Florida, from November 18 – 21, 2024, for the first fully onsite OLC Accelerate conference since the pandemic.

The four-day schedule is brimming with delightful discoveries and enchanting insights that resonate with 25 years of celebratory Online Learning Consortium and 30 years of Accelerating Learning Online milestones. 

The sessions span traditional Education Sessions, immersive Workshops, engaging Express Workshops, interactive Gamified Sessions, fast-paced Lightning Sessions, and in-depth Discovery Sessions for thought-provoking conversations. However, the magic extends beyond these core elements. Our additional programming promises to deep-dive into the most spellbinding topics in online learning:

  • SUMMITS explore vital subjects like research, instructional design, and affordable HBCU solutions, featuring insights from distinguished online/blended learning experts. These invaluable summits are included with the Conference Pass.
  • The Thursday Plenary address will lead with a panel, bringing together experts from higher education research, support, leadership, and faculty to discuss how generative AI is impacting higher education.
  • And our special Monday, November 18 pre-conference events (additionally ticketed items):
    • PRE-CONFERENCE MASTER CLASSES offer hands-on, experiential workshops covering hot digital learning topics, providing immediately applicable strategies.   
    • Our SYMPOSIUMS provide an exclusive one-day immersion into strategy and high-impact practices.
      • Higher education leaders are encouraged to join us for the Leadership Network Symposium, where you will have the opportunity to network and address critical questions around: operational strategies for digital learning excellence, equity and inclusion in digital learning, and innovating digital learning pedagogies and methods. 
      • K12 educators and administrators are invited to join the K12 Symposium, where you will have the opportunity to network and deep dive into relevant online, blended, and digital learning topics.

All of the sessions will come to life through six tracks, which promise to unveil a masterful array of opportunities and perspectives:

  • Innovative Learning Environments and Technologies
  • Digital Learning Design and Effectiveness
  • Equity, Access, and Inclusion in Digital Education
  • Leadership, Collaboration, and Professional Development
  • Student Support and Empowerment in Online Learning
  • Online, Blended, and Digital Learning for K-12 Educators

With the unwavering support of this vibrant community, the event is poised to break previous attendance records, casting its spell over attendees with a kaleidoscope of illuminating sessions and networking prospects. 

Additionally, you can spark magical connections through our intentional engagement opportunities, designed to foster meaningful connections and practical skill development.  Just imagine the possibilities as you mingle with kindred spirits, exchanging insights and forging connections that could unlock new realms of innovation for you and your institution. The hallways and common areas will crackle with energy, inviting you to join impromptu discussions or stumble upon serendipitous encounters that could shape the future of digital learning and improve your practice.

Throughout the 30-year celebratory, interactive stations and experiential activations will beckon you to roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in hands-on learning experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a newcomer to the Accelerate 24 event, these practical opportunities will equip you with tangible strategies and tools to elevate your craft.

As the magical event draws closer, know that the true enchantment will linger long after the last session ends. The connections forged, the skills honed, and the inspiration ignited will become the building blocks for a new era of digital learning magic. You will have witnessed leadership and innovation being celebrated and recognized. Allow this event to inspire your work for the upcoming semester and  showcase your groundbreaking work at the next event. Whether you leave as a newly anointed magician or a wide-eyed apprentice, one thing is certain – the 30th Anniversary of OLC Accelerate will leave an indelible mark on all who attended.

The question is not whether you will be spellbound by the opportunities that abound, but, how deeply you will embrace the magic. Will you be a mere spectator, observing from the sidelines? Or will you dive headfirst into this whirlwind of innovation, emerging as a master of your craft, armed with the knowledge and networks to shape the future? The choice is yours, but the allure of OLC Accelerate 2024 is undeniable. 

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