2024 Program

Featured Speakers

Susan D. Blum, PhD

Authentic, Joyful, Meaningful Learning in College: Is It Possible?

Humans are characterized by tremendous abilities to learn. They are deeply curious and also gloriously varied. And yet in conventional schooling, both faculty and students often complain about the lack of authentic learning, lack of engagement, and various undesirable “side effects.” In this talk Susan D. Blum introduces a variety of intertwined practices that move students from alienation to authentic learning, building on their innate superpowers, which include curiosity and love of learning.

Luis Pérez

Essential for Some, Helpful for All

Accessibility is a foundational component of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), an instructional design framework pioneered at CAST that seeks to remove barriers and optimize teaching and learning so that it works for everyone. Starting with a shared definition of what is meant by “accessible,” participants will explore five practices that have a significant impact on the learner experience, especially those who rely on assistive technology for their access to the curriculum. These practices, which are captured by the acronym SLIDE, are meant to provide an on-ramp so that even those new to digital accessibility can quickly start creating more accessible materials to support learning for everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring any documents or slide decks they wish to revise and make more accessible (syllabus, handouts, etc.).