folcfest

Join us for the inaugural Future of Learning Community Fest

March 14–15 | Omni Hotel | Tempe, Arizona

FOLC Fest is a two-day intellectual jam session (read higher ed conference) hosted by the Office of the University Provost that brings together folks in teaching, tech and student success at ASU. In its inaugural year, the conference aims to explore how ASU can realize our Charter commitment of making an ASU education accessible to all students and learners while remaining on the leading edge of technology and academic excellence. 

 

Thursday, March 14 Keynote Speaker

Williams

Talithia Williams

Big Data Expert, Math Professor & Host of NOVA Wonders

Statistician Talithia Williams is an innovative, award-winning college professor, a co-host of the PBS NOVA series NOVA Wonders and a speaker whose popular TED Talk, “Own Your Body’s Data”, extols the value of statistics in quantifying personal health information. She demystifies the mathematical process in amusing and insightful ways to excite students, parents, educators and the larger community about STEM education and its possibilities.

Friday, March 15 Keynote Speaker

Bridget Burns

Chief Executive Officer, University Innovation Alliance

Named one of the “Most Innovative People in Higher Education” by Washington Monthly magazine, Dr. Bridget Burns is the founding CEO of the award-winning University Innovation Alliance (UIA), a multi-campus national laboratory for student success innovation that helps university leaders dramatically accelerate the implementation of scalable solutions to increase the number and diversity of college graduates across the country. Dr. Burns is a frequent keynote speaker, and her work has been highlighted in national outlets like The New York Times, Fast Company, 60 Minutes, and she was featured in the documentary “Unlikely”. She received her Doctorate of Education in Higher Education, Leadership & Policy from Vanderbilt University.
Bridget

Agenda and Sessions

 

Thursday, March 14

Session name Time Room
Welcome from Provost Nancy Gonzales and the FOLC Fest Committee
Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Keynote | Empowering Education: Enhancing Student Success through Data-Informed Decision-Making

The ASU environment thrives on meaningful relationships, where administrators, staff, and faculty continuously navigate decisions that impact students' lives. Beyond the surface of data accessibility, this talk explores how strategic data-informed decision-making, coupled with effective teaching practices, can synergistically shape and elevate the student experience. By delving into the changing culture of higher education data analytics, we will provide practical insights into fostering a holistic approach that integrates impactful teaching strategies with informed decision-making, ultimately optimizing student success. This talk offers an exploration of the transformative potential when academic leadership, data, and teaching converge for the betterment of student outcomes.

Speaker:
Talithia Williams

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Pi(e) Day Soirée: FOLC Fest Kickoff Reception

Join us for happy hour (with pie for Pi Day!), networking and live music from Rachael Nunemacher with our MC/DJ Matthew Robinson 

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
 

Friday, March 15

Session name Time Room
Check-in and visit conference exhibitors

Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU, second floor

Conference exhibitors include FOLC Fest Gold sponsor Instructure and Maroon sponsor Follett, along with various ASU departments.

Time:   -
Room:  Pre Function North/ Pre Function West
- Pre Function North/ Pre Function West
Demo Session 1

Dive into the forefront of educational innovation with the Demo Sessions at FOLC Fest. This platform highlights dynamic demonstrations where teaching meets technology, showcasing practical applications that are driving student success forward. Each demo provides a glimpse into how ASU is transforming the landscape of learning. Engage directly with the creators, learn about the latest in educational tech. Click through to experience the innovations that are setting new standards in academic excellence.
Demo Session 1 Abstracts

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 8
- Salt River Ballroom 8
Rise and Dine: Breakfast Delights

Join us for continental breakfast while you visit with conference exhibitors and stop in to Demo Session 1.

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Welcome Remarks from Gold sponsor, Instructure

Speakers:

Melissa Loble, Chief Academic Officer, Instructure

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Student Perspective On The Future of Education

The Student Keynote Panel explores the evolving landscape of educational futures from the perspective of students at Arizona State University. In this conversation, led by Punya Mishra, we will delve into how technology and innovation shape learning, featuring insights from both undergraduate and graduate perspectives. We hope that this panel sets the stage for a day dedicated to further learner-centered conversations on the future of learning.

 

Moderator: Punya Mishra
Panelists: Sophia HermanCaleb Lieberman, Frank Liu, Nicole Oster

 

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Humanity break, get to sessions

Time:   -
-

(Track 1) The Times They Are A-Changin: Keeping Up With Future of Learning

AI and the Future of Higher Education: Strategies for Innovation and Agility

This presentation brings together AI leaders and practitioners from across ASU to discuss the transformative role of AI in higher education. Focusing on innovation and agility, speakers will share their strategies, visions, and real-world AI solutions developed at ASU. Attendees will gain insights into how AI is shaping the future of learning, teaching, and administrative processes, highlighting the potential for AI to enhance educational outcomes and operational efficiency within higher education institutions.

Co-presenters:

Elizabeth Reilley

Amanda Gulley

Gil Speyer

Roger Kohler

Auryan Ratliff

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 3
- Salt River Ballroom 3
Course Stories Live: Tales of Instructional Design for the Global Digital Classroom

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Join the Course Stories crew to listen in on interviews by Kileigh Erickson and Maria Tatto, Wes Flemming and Michael Arseneault, and Katrina Vollmer and Timiebi Aganaba, as they discuss their journeys through the depths of course design, program design, and integrating AI into the digital classroom. We are so excited for this opportunity to record an episode live from FOLC Fest 2024! Featuring Ricardo Leon, Elizabeth Blythe-Lee, and Mary Loder.

Co-presenters:

Mary Loder

Ricardo Leon

Elizabeth Lee Blythe

 

Creating a meaningful online course can be a substantial endeavor, particularly when navigating the process alone. Many educators may not fully grasp the wealth of resources available to enhance the efficacy of their efforts. To more effectively address the diverse needs of our students, it becomes imperative to harness the collective power of individuals with varied skills and backgrounds. Collaborating with our community not only enriches the course creation process but also significantly enhances the outcomes.

Co-presenters:

Katrina Vollmer

Timiebi Aganaba

 

Discover how ASU Online's AI tools suite streamlines the instructional design process. In this Lightning Talk, we'll showcase how these tools empower learning designers to create personalized learning experiences and enhance teaching effectiveness

Co-presenters:

Wesley Fleming

Michael Arseneault

 

This study examines how teachers in a 1.5-year M.Ed. all-online program at ASU are prepared to use research to improve culturally sustaining humanizing practices. The curriculum uses comparative education theory, transformational learning theory, and the UNESCO SDG4 framework. Teachers investigate social equity issues in their community with a global lens. The study demonstrates how a specific learning approach can transform teachers into advocates for justice and equity in their classrooms and communities.

Presenter:

Maria Teresa Tatto

Time:   -
Room:  Crimson
- Crimson
Engaging Students with Course Analytics (Instructure)
Time:   -
Room:  Bronze
- Bronze
Enhancing Student Success

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


From Good to Great: A Student-Led Journey in Course Enhancement

This presentation examines the process of elevating course quality from satisfactory to exemplary. Through a systematic analysis of student-led curriculum alignment, teaching innovations, and multimedia engagement, we explore the efficacy of transformative strategies. Challenges in ensuring consistency across modalities and achieving lecturer buy-in are discussed alongside lessons learned, emphasizing the pivotal role of faculty champions and standardized content implementation. Insights are drawn from a comprehensive evaluation, revealing significant enhancements in student-reported outcomes and course effectiveness.

Co-presenters:

Joy Griffin

Nick Lindquist

 

Supporting Student Success in Different Course Delivery Modalities

Facilitating student success in and outside of the classroom requires presence from instructors, which comes in a variety of ways. This presentation will discuss best practices and strategies around presence to support student success.

Co-presenters:

Marcos Martinez

Elisa Kawam

Melanie O'Neil

 

Teaching Assistance for Teaching Assistants

TAs are highly prized members of our instructional community. Hear how the School of Life Sciences' scaffolded development efforts have created a pipeline of instructional design-minded TAs who support SOLS courses and faculty. The SOLS Teaching and Learning Center will discuss strategies for onboarding and supporting TAs, including insights into how targeted programming and resource development contribute to a student-centered approach, furthering our commitment to ASU’s Charter.

Co-presenters:

Holly Basteyns

Amy Nettles

Amalie Strange

Tiffany Lewis

 

Experiential Learning for Managing Under Conditions of Uncertainty

Students are exposed to the differences between managing for efficiency x managing for innovation. Students build a framework along the semester made of TOOLS/TESTS/OUTCOMES. Since a classroom is a very safe space, students are sent to different parts of town to generate insights, find problems worth solving, build prototypes and pitch their creations. Criticism is offered by a Shark Tank and students reflect on their learning journeys by reconciling with failures and developing a growth mindset.

Presenter:

Rivadavia Drummond

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 6
- Salt River Ballroom 6
Fostering Empathy and Inclusivity in Higher Education: A Persona-Scenario Approach

In this interactive workshop, we will introduce persona-based practitioner approaches and explore the value of personas in fostering empathy for our students. We'll discuss our experience in creating student personas for an inclusive teaching workshop, and demonstrate how technology, such as ChatGPT, and student data can aid in persona creation for anyone at ASU. Participants will gain insights into leveraging personas and we will share resources and best practices.

Speakers:

Kristen Peña

Stefani Jenkins

Jon Baek

Medha Dalal

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 2
- Salt River Ballroom 2
Poster Session 1

Explore a world of innovation in education through the Poster Sessions at FOLC Fest. This showcase features cutting-edge research and projects at the nexus of teaching, technology, and student success. Each poster, from titles to abstracts and speaker insights, represents a step forward in our commitment to making education accessible and maintaining academic excellence. Delve into the ideas shaping the future of learning, and discover how ASU is leading the charge in educational innovation.
Poster Session 1

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Reducing Barriers to Success: Supporting the Student Journey from Course Materials to Graduation

Higher education leaders are seeking creative solutions to improve college affordability and remove barriers that could negatively impact retention. This data-driven session will focus on needle-moving education trends that are making a difference in outcomes, from the rise of campus-wide course material Access programs to seamless technology that improves the student and faculty experience. 

Presented by Maroon Sponsor, Follett Higher Education.

Ashlie Singleton,Vice President Access Solutions, Follett Higher Education

Jim Dwyer, Asst Vice President, Auxiliary Business Services

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 7
- Salt River Ballroom 7
University Initiatives for Inclusive Excellence

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Elevating Excellence: How CCI Champions Inclusion in Teaching and Beyond

Deputy Vice President (EOSS) and Committee for Campus Inclusion (CCI) Executive Chair, Dr. Cassandra Aska, invites faculty and education professionals to explore collaborative opportunities in fostering inclusive excellence through the work of CCI. From recent catalyzing work embodying inclusive excellence, to recognition for teaching excellence, and available grants for emerging initiatives, join this session to connect with like-minded professionals dedicated to advancing inclusive excellence at ASU!

Co-presenters

Dr. Cassandra Aska

Renee Pilbeam

 

Study Hall: A destination for college hopefuls on YouTube

Study Hall is becoming the destination for college hopefuls on YouTube looking to understand how to navigate college and fields of study and get an early start on foundational topics with a direct path to earning university credit. ASU, Crash Course, and YouTube have partnered to empower millions of learners by reaching them where they are and enabling them to make early decisions, setting them up for success at ASU or any institution.

Presenter

Wayne Anderson

Amy Pate

 

Growing Roses in Concrete: Developing Self-efficacy among Incarcerated Women

In 2020 ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business forged a partnership with the Televerde Foundation, aiming to cultivate self-leadership and business acumen among incarcerated women. Over the span of four years, the Career PATHS program has seen over 160 female felons graduate, with a remarkable outcome: none have returned to prison. We will delve into the transformative impact of integrating Bandura's self-efficacy development framework, elucidating how this approach has transformed the lives of these students.

Co-presenters

Julia LaRosa

Konstandinos Voutsas

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 1
- Salt River Ballroom 1
Nosh and Network Lunch

Join us for lunch while you visit with conference exhibitors and stop in to Demo Session 2.

Time:   -
Room:  Pre-Function North/South
- Pre-Function North/South
Demo Session 2

Dive into the forefront of educational innovation with the Demo Sessions at FOLC Fest. This platform highlights dynamic demonstrations where teaching meets technology, showcasing practical applications that are driving student success forward. Each demo provides a glimpse into how ASU is transforming the landscape of learning. Engage directly with the creators, learn about the latest in educational tech. Click through to experience the innovations that are setting new standards in academic excellence.
Demo Session 2 Abstracts

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 8
- Salt River Ballroom 8
Regrouping with Sukhwant Jhaj
Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Keynote | Collaborative Innovation: Designing the Future of Student Success

Dr. Burns helps leaders and aspiring leaders see innovation and change as simple and easy to do regardless of where they sit on the org chart, by sharing stories, tools and frameworks she learned while helping universities across the country do a better job for low-income students. In this talk you will learn about:

  • Leveraging proven tactics to enable sustainable innovation and progress, (despite burnout and a rapidly changing context.)
  • How higher education can shift and adapt to meet the needs of new majority learners, adult learners, and students of the future.
  • The key questions innovators ask themself to navigate, and lead in the new normal.

Bridget Burns

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Humanity break, get to sessions

Time:   -
-

(Track 2) Turn On Your Love Light: Including Every Learner

A Transformative Approach to Health

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Using Technology to Enhance Client Outcomes and Educate Future Leaders in Healthcare

The ASU Speech & Hearing Science Clinic is committed to leveraging innovative technology for clinical training, shaping the future of professionals in speech-language pathology. At the core of our mission is providing unparalleled clinical training that spans nine practice areas, serving clients from birth to life's final stages. Embracing technology has been a game-changer, empowering our students to provide better access to clients and improve outcomes through telemedicine, client simulation, and virtual reality tools.

Co-presenters:

Joshua Breger

Victoria Clark

 

Combining Academic and Practice Partners to Serve the Community

Academic practice partnerships are foundational to educating nursing students in real-life environments where they have the opportunity to learn. Finding a unique partnership where Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation students and faculty can practice and teach with a community partner opened the door to helping meet the students' and the community.

Co-presenters:

Craig Laser

Joe Russo

 

Quantum Biomolecular Sensors at ASU

I will present my recent work in quantum biology and Quantum Information Sciences, and how it relates to an in-progress initiative to create at ASU a Center for Quantum Biomolecular Sensors & Information Sciences (CQBSIS).

Co-presenters:

Vladimiro Mujica

Time:   -
Room:  Crimson
- Crimson
Designing the Future: Tailored Learning Paths for All

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Lights on the Dashboard: Learner Data as an Early Warning

ULCs, which are affordable and low-risk courses, are open to all learners seeking a lower-stakes introduction to higher education. Participants have the opportunity to earn college credit, ultimately paving the way for admission to ASU. In this discussion, we will explore the development and impact of an analytical tool that proactively monitors learner and course progress, enabling real-time course health decisions and adjustments during revisions to help learners achieve their educational objectives.

Co-presenters:

Pallavi Sharma

 

Creating a Sustainability Universal Learning Course with Study Hall

Sustainability is a fast growing field. In dozens of countries, sustainability jobs are the fastest growing careers, with more jobs than qualified people to fill them. We discuss the process of creating a ULC with Study Hall that will serve college and universal learners and help to close the sustainability skills gap.

Co-presenters:

Christopher Boone

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 7
- Salt River Ballroom 7
Emerging and Immersive Technologies: Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Realities (XR)

This is a mixed-mode session featuring both discussion and hands-on demos. Three ASU professors will first present some theory and research from each of their labs/design studios. They are on the forefront of eXtended Reality (XR), i.e., Augmented (AR), Mixed and Virtual Reality (VR). The first session-half will be on design and findings. Attendees will then be invited to move to the back of the room to experience content while further questions are answered.

Co-presenters:

Mina C. Johnson-Glenberg

Retha Hill

Aurel Coza

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Empowering Education: Exploring the Impact of Generative AI

In this panel faculty and staff from MLFTC, LEI, HIDA, and Thunderbird engage in an exploration of the impact of Generative AI in Education. The panel will discuss practical strategies, success stories, pedagogical resources, and tools that have been used in creating tailored approaches to Generative AI in Education. Exploring areas of teaching and learning, artistry, creativity, research, teaching and learning, and personal explorations that enhance experiences.

Moderator:

Jennnifer Werner

Panel:

Steve Salik

Rezwana Islam

James Dunnigan

Theresa Hoover

Janice Mak

Kellie Kreiser

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 3
- Salt River Ballroom 3
Mastery Paths, Course Pacing & Instructional Design (Instructure)

Speaker:
Jason Richter
Principal Global Lead
Learning Management
Instructure

Time:   -
Room:  Bronze
- Bronze
Solving Real-problems in Real-time for International Learners

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


eLearning at Scale - Empowering Online Higher Education in Ethiopia

In partnership with Mastercard Foundation, the Ethiopian Ministry of Education and local implementation partner Shayashone, Arizona State University aims to advance Ethiopia’s national eLearning agenda and provide online learning opportunities in higher education. eSHE (eLearning for Strengthening Higher Education) will serve the 50 public universities in Ethiopia with a goal to reach over 800k learners. We provide comprehensive support through technology solutions, capacity-building programs, and high-value student success courses.

Co-presenters

Bethany Weigele

Yeukai Mlambo

Adria Roode

 

Orientation & Mobility in Cairo

This presentation will define what a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist is and the collaboration between myself, The Baseera Foundation, Western Michigan University, and ESLSCA university to train the first cohort of Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists to ever work in Egypt.

Co-presenters

Jay Whipple

 

Education in Conflict: How Technology at ASU Can Improve Access

Using Myanmar (a country with the longest-running armed conflict in the world) as a model, this session explores the challenges and existing solutions for access to education. The Asia Center at ASU collaborated with the Learning Enterprise to conduct a pilot study on how youth in conflict regions can continue their education online. This session will also highlight how we can leverage technology to redefine education to meet the needs amidst global conflict.

Presenter

Chan Lwin

 

Collaboration with American University Kyiv (AUK): technology and students' success

Creating university from scratch: collaboration between Julia, SoMSS (ASU) and Dr. Antoniouk, AUK that lead to a successful launch of first ASU supported mathematical courses in Kiev during the war.

Presenter

Julia Inozemtseva

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 2
- Salt River Ballroom 2
Transformative Technologies in Education: From AI to Virtual Immersion

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


From AI to Z: Designing an Innovative Business Writing Course Using ChatGPT

Generative AI has created new and exciting possibilities for addressing perennial challenges for online education, including effective course design and teaching writing at scale. This presentation will walk through the process followed for designing a business writing course from the ground up using ChatGPT. It will include lessons learned and recommendations for integrating generative AI-powered technologies into a writing course and future opportunities for reimagining online course design.

Presenter:

Kathleen Hicks

 

Embracing New Stories about Generative AI

The stories we hear about generative AI affect our willingness to embrace it. This presentation addresses the limits of current generative AI storytelling practices and suggests alternative methods that will lead to increased public literacy.

Presenter:

Kyle Jensen

 

From Ontology to Epistemology: A human and non-human collaborative learning experience

What if Gen AI fully interacted and participated in our classes as an equal contributor? Most conversations regarding AI often take an approach in which human developed frameworks are imposed to regulate unwanted behavior. What if, instead, the focus was on Gen AI interactions that increased engagement, enhanced questioning, and created effective brainstorming? Together we will briefly explore experiences in executive and doctoral classes in which AI participated, contributed, and was welcomed as an equal.

Presenter:

Charla Griffy Brown

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 1
- Salt River Ballroom 1
Using Technology To Create Inclusive Learning Experiences

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Technology and Belonging - Inclusivity in Action

This presentation explores how curricula can be delivered synchronously in a way that maximizes the ASU Charter principles of compassion, inclusion, social embeddedness, critical thinking, and academic rigor. Stemming from a model of community development and humbled by the pandemic, we are grounded in co-creating safe, trauma sensitive, and equitable learning spaces for students, faculty, and staff alike. Attendees will learn about best practices for synchronous education and uses of technology for inclusive learning experiences.

Co-presenters:

Elisa Kawam

Marcos Martinez

Melanie O'Neil

 

“A way of being human”: Neurodivergence, assistive technology, and barriers to belonging

Many neurodivergent students rely on assistive technology (AT) — both low and high tech — to focus, communicate, support executive functioning, and regulate emotions. However, these students often encounter attitudinal barriers that hinder their full participation in the classroom. This presentation will identify types of AT and their function to normalize the use of these supports and reduce the stigma of neurotypes such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.

Presenter:

London Skiles

 

Implementing Online Learning Communities

To further the ASU Charter's goals of access and student success, the ASU Polytechnic School's Information Technology program, led by Dr. Tatiana Walsh and Eric Bishop, collaborated with various ASU entities to implement online learning communities in IFT 101: Information Technology Programming Logic in Fall 2023. These communities, spanning multiple sections and modalities, involved four instructors and over 400 students. Learning communities prioritize collaboration among students, faculty, and staff, aiming to restructure the curriculum to overcome educational barriers and foster a sense of belonging (Elon University, 2023).

Co-presenters:

Andrew Salcido

Eric Bishop

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 6
- Salt River Ballroom 6
Humanity break, get to sessions

Time:   -
-

(Track 3) With A Little Help From My Friends: ASU’s Learning Landscape

Centering Engagement: Fireworks, Storytelling, and Rapid Feedback

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Engaging Students From Day One

We will explore the innovative approach of using an interactive syllabus to enhance student engagement. By incorporating multimedia, interactive elements, and personalized content, the interactive syllabus aims to captivate students' attention and foster a more dynamic learning experience. We will discuss the benefits of this approach, share practical examples, and provide insights on how educators can create and implement their own interactive syllabi to effectively engage and motivate their students.

Presenter:

Karla Murphy

Chelsie Schlesinger

Anna Cunningham

 

The development of a writing analytics tool (WAT)

Many high schoolers are unprepared for the rigors of college-level writing. This presentation discusses an ongoing project in the ASU SoLET and Learning Engineering Institute (LEI) to improve writing outcomes through the development of a writing analytics tool (WAT). The goal of the project is to help researchers, teachers, and students learn more about source-based writing, and to also improve writing outcomes for secondary students via the provision of formative feedback and writing analytics.

Co-presenters:

Andrew Potter

Zeinab Serhan

Nishad Anil Patne

 

Storytelling with Fireworks: Engaging Learners in Biology

Story-based learning engages students through familiar storytelling, providing a risk-free space for exploration. Crafting narratives that allow students to influence their outcomes and take calculated risks, counteracts waning engagement in online learning, by transforming the experience into a self-guided, problem-solving activity. Ultimately, storytelling fosters active engagement and enhances information retention for effective learning. In this talk, we will share our experience with creating an online course that uses storytelling as the key method of engagement.

Co-presenters:

Alejandra Dashe

Cari Frederick

Karen Cipolla

 

Getting Personal with the Theory of Computation: Storytelling and Personalized Feedback

Introduction to Theoretical Computer Science (CSE 355) is a notoriously difficult class in the Computer Science program that shifts students' focus from tangible programming tasks to mathematical reasoning, proof writing, and the history of computation. In this talk, I share insights from CSE 355's ongoing development and pilot for ASU Online, highlighting our efforts to improve student engagement and provide rapid, personalized feedback at scale over a diverse range of learning activities.

Co-presenters:

Joshua Daymude

Time:   -
Room:  Crimson
- Crimson
Empowering Lifelong Learning: Community-Centric Approaches in Higher Education

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Scalable Training for Community Educators

Discover how the Community Educator Learning Hub, an online platform developed by collaborators across Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, equips community members with essential teaching and learning skills to effectively support students. Learn how scalable training can empower volunteers, parents, tutors, and industry experts to be effective people-powered supports in schools.

Co-presenters:

Korbi Adams

Lauren Conn

 

Integrating Student-Choice and Job-Embedded Learning in Online Courses

Participants will be introduced to the MLFTC Graduate Teacher Preparation job-embedded/student-choice model, including the goals of the courses, learning design implementation, and ongoing improvements based on data. The main intent is for learners to acquire and practice relevant skills and concepts within their academic courses while they are working in their professional, education-based environments. Participants will engage in discussions around strategies to implement flexible application of learning outcomes within their own programs and courses.

Co-presenters:

Brooke D'Adamo

Gulnora Isaeva

Anthony Geisler

Courtney Ellsworth

Shirley Zhang

 

Helping ASU Graduates Fulfill the ASU Charter Beyond Graduation

Helping diverse students succeed at ASU only partially fulfills the ASU Charter. We must find creative and innovative solutions to ensuring our students are positioned to further fulfill principles of the ASU Charter in their lives and communities. One way we have embraced this responsibility is by seeking out and qualifying to become a CFLE-certified program, enabling our students to graduate with an ASU degree as well as a nationally-recognized certification in family life education.

Presenter:

Dan Erickson

 

Thunderbird ASU: The “Thunderverse”, VR for Language Immersion, and Multimedia Cases

This session will describe the use of these technologies in teaching and describe the underlying teaching methodologies used by faculty at Thunderbird to achieve specific learning outcomes in a highly distributed global community as well as in Phoenix. The session will explore the use of spatial computing for teaching global team work, VR language lab for language mastery, and multimedia to enhance learning in global case analysis, as well as other technologies currently being used and their impact on students and communities.

Co-presenters:

Charla Griffy Brown

Quincey Hobbs

Euvin Naidoo

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 6
- Salt River Ballroom 6
Five Years of Digital Credentialing through TLN and Pocket

ASU's Trusted Learner Network and ASU Pocket, innovative digital credentialing technologies, empower learners to manage and share their learning achievements. These tools offer verifiable proof of accomplishments, addressing the challenge of evidencing learning in an era of technology-enhanced education. Join Dr. Lev Gonick, Dr. Allison Hall, Dr. Donna Kidwell, and Kate Giovacchini in a panel discussing the impact of credentialing over the last five years, focusing on value, trust, and access.

Moderator:

Kate Giovacchini

Panelists:

Dr. Lev Gonick

Dr. Allison Hall

Dr. Donna Kidwell

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 1
- Salt River Ballroom 1
Generative AI: Responsible Use Through Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy

ASU must embrace generative AI and explore its possibilities while considering its perils. Within ASU’s consideration of responsible use, it is important to explore how out-of-classroom learning support can work alongside students to navigate questions of critical thinking and digital literacy. This panel of information and academic support experts will discuss how GenAI is changing the information environment on our campuses, and what that could mean for information literacy instruction and peer-to-peer support going forward.

Co-presenters:

Sierra Schuman

Tristan Rebe

Eric Prosser

Mary Ann Naumann

Jonathan McMichael

Lisa Cahill

Rhonda Rumble

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 3
- Salt River Ballroom 3
Inclusivity and Accessibility Initiatives In the Classroom

This 60-minute session is composed of multiple lightning talks (abstracts below) followed by a Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to stay for the full session and participate in the discussion at the end.


Raising Expectations: Enhancing Access and Inclusion

Many of the barriers to independence affecting individuals with disabilities are caused by rapid technological advancements and a lack of awareness regarding impacts. One consistent barrier is the expectations we hold, often unconsciously, that a person cannot do something because of a perceived disability.

Our initiatives expand inclusive services for individuals with Intellectual Disability, enhance student capability and we invite your collaboration in the implementation of our future certificate program, coming soon.

Presenter:

Adero C. E. Allison

Krista Puruhito

 

Designing for Inclusion in CGF 110: Resilient American Futures

The Resilient American Futures course is an outgrowth of the larger Ten Across initiative, which highlights the nationwide Interstate 10 corridor as the frontline of pressing sustainability problems and profound demographic and socio-economic changes. The course emphasizes learner inclusion and access in its core design, including the use of place-based narratives to connect with student lived experiences, custom online textbook design emphasizing visual immersion and free information access, and use of multiple content delivery platforms for both ASU students and outside learners.

Co-presenters:

Benjamin Stanley

 

Metamorphosis of Success: Bumblebees, Caterpillars, & Inclusive Learning Environments

Dive into the transformative power of inclusive learning environments with 'Metamorphosis of Success.' This session explores how embracing diversity nurtures potential, drawing inspiration from the resilience of bumblebees and caterpillars. Discover how to cultivate a space where every learner's inherent power flourishes, regardless of background or circumstance. Join us to unlock the secrets of success through inclusivity.

Co-presenters:

Derrick Clark

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 7
- Salt River Ballroom 7
Learning through Stories with Dreamscape

This session explores the innovative educational approach that leverages the immersive and narrative power of storytelling within virtual reality environments to enhance learning outcomes. This method engages students by embedding educational content within captivating stories set in rich, immersive experiences fostering deeper understanding and retention of material. By harnessing the emotional and cognitive impact of stories, Dreamscape Learn creates a unique learning experience that motivates and inspires students, making education both engaging and relevant.

Co-presenters:

Lisa Flesher

Elena Rocchi

Michael Angilletta

John VandenBrooks

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 2
- Salt River Ballroom 2
Mastery Paths, Course Pacing & Instructional Design (Instructure)

Speaker:
Jason Richter
Principal Global Lead
Learning Management
Instructure

Time:   -
Room:  Bronze
- Bronze
Poster Session 2

Explore a world of innovation in education through the Poster Sessions at FOLC Fest. This showcase features cutting-edge research and projects at the nexus of teaching, technology, and student success. Each poster, from titles to abstracts and speaker insights, represents a step forward in our commitment to making education accessible and maintaining academic excellence. Delve into the ideas shaping the future of learning, and discover how ASU is leading the charge in educational innovation.
Poster Session 2

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Snack and Sip: Refreshments to Recharge

Grab a quick snack and recharge before the ASU Leadership Panel.

Time:   -
Room:  Pre-Function North/South
- Pre-Function North/South
ASU Leadership Panel | The Future of Learning at ASU

Join moderator Danielle McNamara in a dynamic panel discussion titled "The Future of Learning at ASU," featuring Anne Jones, Carole Basile, Lev Gonick, and Phillip Regier as they delve into their leadership roles in guiding ASU's teaching and learning initiatives. From discussing current challenges to envisioning the future, the panelists will explore innovative strategies and solutions. Expect insightful questions that bridge conference themes, providing a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of education. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable perspectives and insights from these influential leaders.

Moderator: Danielle McNamara
Panelists: Anne Jones, Carole Basile, Lev Gonick, Philip Regier

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5
Closing remarks

The FOLC Fest Committee closes the conference.

Time:   -
Room:  Salt River Ballroom 4-5
- Salt River Ballroom 4-5

During FOLC Fest we will

  • Explore the latest ASU advancements and innovations in technology and their impact on teaching and learning. 
  • Bring faculty and staff together to co-present, acknowledging the full spectrum of teaching, learning and tech professionals at ASU and their involvement in students’ holistic journeys. 
  • Pinpoint the challenges and opportunities of integrating technology into educational practices. 
  • Provide a platform for educators, researchers and technology professionals to share their experiences and best practices in technology-enhanced teaching and learning. 
  • Facilitate discussions on innovative teaching and learning strategies that leverage technology. 
  • Foster belonging and collaboration among educators, researchers and professionals across the field of educational technology. 
  • Build scaffolding across various faculty and staff comfort and experience levels with technology to honor the diversity of expertise at ASU. 

Thank you to our FOLC Fest sponsors.

Gold Sponsor

Instructure

 

Maroon Sponsor

Follett

A little bit more about FOLC Fest

 

FOLC Fest is a new face in the higher education conference world.

Brought to you by the fine folk at the ASU Office of the University Provost, FOLC Fest is a forum that celebrates and advances the technologies and techniques that make the most impact on college student academic outcomes.

True to the ASU Charter, the conference will focus on approaches that help more students from all backgrounds succeed in college.

FOLC Fest is in its beta year, and in true ASU fashion, we’re building it as we fly it. As such, the conference is open to only ASU faculty and staff, with plans to expand nationwide in 2025.

If you’d like to be involved in helping plan and produce FOLC Fest, email Joanna Schlinkert at Joanna.Schlinkert@asu.edu.