#OLCInsights
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onlinelearningconsortium.org
💸 As federal pandemic-era investments fade, institutions are seeking new ways to fund and advance #DistanceLearning. The latest #OLCInsights article outlines where leaders can find strong opportunities and offers practical guidance for seeking grants.

🖋️ Read more at the link in our bio ✨
Blog post cover titled "Funding Distance Learning Initiatives Post-Pandemic" Blog post excerpt reading "Funding is a constant challenge, but exceptional leaders find ways to expand their options and grants are a key avenue to consider. Now is the time for distance learning leaders to think boldly about funding, partnerships, and federal and state grants that can extend their institution’s reach and effectiveness." Written by Dr. Marc Smithers, Grants Development Associate, Grants Office, LLC
January 5, 2026 at 2:04 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🌅 As 2025 comes to a close, #OLC reflects on a year defined by innovation, inquiry, and an unwavering commitment to advancing quality digital learning.

This reflection spotlights the most impactful webinars, #OLCInsights articles, and OLC research from 2025. Read more at the link in our bio ✨
Blog post cover reading "OLC's Best of 2025: The Conversations that Defined the Year in Digital Learning" Blog excerpt written by OLC reading: As 2025 comes to a close, the Online Learning Consortium reflects on a year defined by innovation, inquiry, and an unwavering commitment to advancing quality digital learning. Together, these highlights offer a snapshot of the ideas, challenges, and emerging practices that shaped digital learning in 2025—and point toward the conversations that will carry us forward."
December 15, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
⚡️ ♻️ New research offers the clearest picture yet of how much energy, carbon, and water a modern AI prompt actually uses

🖋️ Explore what the latest data reveals in the latest #OLCInsights at the link in our bio
OLC Insights blog post cover, titled "The Real Environmental Footprint of Generative AI: What 2025 Data Tell Us" "From Amazon shopping and LMS usage to streaming and cloud storage, data centers already support an enormous portion of modern life. AI adds to that load, but it is one part of a much larger digital ecosystem. The way forward is measurement, transparency, efficiency, and using AI where it truly displaces higher-footprint activities—not where it adds unnecessary load." Written by Carrie Miller, Ph.D., senior researcher at the Online Learning Consortium.
December 12, 2025 at 4:00 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
✨ Our September Snap Survey results indicated strong sentiment around ethics and GenAI. The October Snap Survey explored that area in greater depth, building on those findings!

🖋️ Read more in the latest #OLCInsights at the link in our bio
Dark graphic from OLC reading "Snap Survey Results, October 2025, Ethics in Generative AI"
December 8, 2025 at 2:04 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🎙️ At ICEBM 2025, OLC Senior Researcher Carrie Miller, Ph.D., moderated a dynamic panel exploring how #GenAI is reshaping teaching, learning, and faculty work.

🖋️ Read Carrie's reflections and key takeaways in the latest #OLCInsights 👉 bit.ly/InsightsAIInEducation

#OnlineLearning
Blog post cover, titled "AI in Education: Partner, Provocateur, and Practical Tool." Blog post excerpt, reading: "The panel closed with a shared recognition: AI is here to stay, and it will transform education in ways we are only beginning to grasp. It can democratize expertise, streamline workload, provide real-time feedback, and prepare students for AI-augmented workplaces. Yet it also carries risks—bias, overreliance, misinformation, and the temptation to hand over too much intellectual labor to machines." Written by Carrie Miller, Ph.D., Senior Researcher at the Online Learning Consortium
December 1, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🤝 Online students thrive when they feel connected, supported, and engaged.

🖋️ The latest #OLCInsights outlines how faculty can strengthen #StudentSuccess through communication, active, and purposeful design.

🔗 bit.ly/EngagingDistanceLearners

#OnlineLearning #DistanceEducation
Blog post cover titled "Distance Learners Want Meaningful Engagement in the Classroom, Too" Blog post excerpt reading: "Engagement within the online classroom contributes to student success, persistence, progression, and retention. Faculty support enhances students’ learning experiences providing a sense of belonging, purpose, and a clear picture of how course topics will build skills needed for desired careers. Intentional asynchronous and synchronous communication from faculty gives students a sense that they are valued and important." Written by Dawn Coder, Ed.D., Acting Associate Vice Provost for Online Education, Student Engagement, The Pennsylvania State University, World Campus
November 24, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🚀 As #OLCAccelerate marks its 31st year, CEO Jennifer Mathes, Ph.D., reflects on how far we’ve come—and where we’re headed next.

🖋️ Read the Latest #OLCInsights: bit.ly/WelcomeToAC25

#OLCAccelerate2025 #OnlineLearning #EdTech
Blog post cover titled: "Welcome to Accelerate 2025! The Next 30 Years - Highlights and What Not to Miss." Blog post excerpt reading: "The theme The Next 30 Years reflects a shared belief that the work of teaching and learning is both timeless and transformative. As we look to the future, we have an extraordinary opportunity to reimagine how technology, pedagogy, and leadership intersect to support meaningful learning for all." Written by Jennifer Mathes, Ph.D., CEO, Online Learning Consortium.
November 13, 2025 at 3:08 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights article, the #GenAI Use and Ethics Framework presents a clear five-level model for responsibly integrating generative AI across #K12 and #HigherEducation.

🔗 Read the Insights: bit.ly/GenAIEthicsFramework
Blog post cover, titled "GenAI Use and Ethics Framework: A Pedagogical Model for Responsible AI Integration in K-12 and Higher Education" Blog post excerpt reading: "The GenAI Use and Ethics Framework turns broad AI principles into clear stages, concrete tasks, and guardrails that work for both schools and universities. It offers a practical path to use generative AI while guarding honesty, privacy and public trust." Written by Marcus Green, Instructional Designer at Kennesaw State University
November 11, 2025 at 2:07 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
☕️ Ever wondered what it takes to make OLC conferences feel effortless? This insider look reveals the planning, partnerships, and people behind every inspiring event.

👀 Take a peek behind the scenes in the latest #OLCInsights 👉 bit.ly/AC25BehindTheScenes

#OLCAccelerate2025 #OLCAccelerate
Blog cover titled "Thinks You Maybe Don't Know about Conferences Blog post excerpt reading: Now that I’m nearing the end of my fourth year at OLC, I’ve come to realize that most attendees probably don’t know about the inner workings of conference planning. For the most part, this is a good thing. We want you to think that our conferences are magical... So, as we gear up for the Accelerate conference in November, I offer you an insider perspective that I hope will expand your thinking about our conferences." Written by Dylan Barth Ph.D., Vice President of Innovation and Programs at the Online Learning Consortium.
November 7, 2025 at 2:06 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, discover how targeted, well-timed multimodal interactives can deepen comprehension and prepare learners for real-world application.

🔗 Read the Latest Insights: bit.ly/MultimodalInteractives
Blog post cover titled "Beyond the Talking Head: Strategically Reinforced Learning with Multimodal Interactives." Blog post excerpt reading: "Learners expect more than just video lectures and static readings—they need opportunities to engage, apply, and reflect. That’s where multimodal interactives come in. These dynamic learning assets combine various forms of media—video, graphics, clickable elements, simulations, and real-time feedback—into a single, cohesive experience. When used strategically, they don’t just enhance engagement; they deepen understanding and improve learning outcomes." Written by Baylor University Learning Design and Technology Program.
November 4, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🧠 ✨ In the latest #OLCInsights, discover how to use Bloom’s Taxonomy as a guide for determining when AI can support—rather than replace—human cognition.

🖋️ Read the Insights: bit.ly/BloomsForAIAdoption

#GenAI #HigherEducation
Blog post cover for OLC Insights with text reading: "Using Bloom's Taxonomy to understand AI Adoption in Higher Education". Blog post excerpt reading: "Oregon State University’s revision of Bloom’s Taxonomy aims to clarify AI’s role in learning by delineating how Gen AI can supplement learning at each level of Bloom’s Taxonomy. However, further distinction is needed regarding which cognitive skills and knowledge types AI can and cannot handle. This clarity supports the effective integration of AI and pedagogy, helping to assess whether students are prepared to benefit from AI-assisted, higher-order tasks." Written by Ana Useche, Ph.D., Instructional Designer, Center for Academic Technologies at Santa Fe College
October 28, 2025 at 7:02 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🧪 💥 AI in education, like a catalyst, is transforming how we teach and learn.

🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, explore the four “elements” for meaningful integration—student-focused teaching, ethics, practical application, and preparing learners for the future.

🔗 bit.ly/ReactionsToInsights
Blog post cover, titled "From Reactions to Insights: Lessons on AI from a Chemistry Conversation." Blog post excerpt, reading: "AI has the potential to transform education, but relationships, dialogue, and experimentation are what make it effective. Listening closely to faculty voices highlights both the opportunities and the challenges of AI. For educators, instructional designers, and leaders, the path forward is less a straight line and more like a reaction that requires careful conditions and adjustment." Written by Mallory Matthews, Ed.S., Ph.D. candidate (ABD), from the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning at Tennessee Tech University.
October 16, 2025 at 4:19 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, OLC CEO Jennifer Mathes, Ph.D., discusses key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping digital education across South America.

🔗 Read the Insights: bit.ly/OnlineLearningSouthAmerica

Interactive graphics created in collaboration with Genially
Blog post cover titled "The Evolving Landscape of Online Learning in South America" Blog post excerpt reading: "The conversations I had in Chile, along with developments across South America, highlight both the promise and complexity of this work. When strategy, collaboration, and a focus on learner needs come together, online learning has the potential to expand access and improve outcomes in meaningful ways. While approaches vary, these emerging models provide valuable insight into what makes digital education both sustainable and effective." Written by Jennifer Mathes, Ph.D., CEO of the Online Learning Consortium.
October 3, 2025 at 1:06 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🌐 The U.S. Department of Justice has issued new ADA regulations requiring public colleges and universities to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards by April 24, 2026.

Learn what’s changing, why it matters, and how your campus can prepare with OLC’s tools and resources. 🔗 bit.ly/2026A11yRequirements
Blog post promotional graphic, reading: "Digital accessibility news. New federal digital accessibility requirements: what higher ed needs to know and do now. The compliance deadline for new federal digital accessibility standards is quickly approaching. Learn who must comply and what's required in the latest #OLCInsights"
October 2, 2025 at 1:06 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, learn more about the engagement activities you can look forward to at #OLCAccelerate2025, including high-energy games, scavenger hunts, and wellness activities in The Sanctuary

🔗 Read the Insights: bit.ly/AC25EngagementBlog
Blog post cover titled "Recharge and Re-engergize: Personalize your Accelerate Engagement Experience". Blog post excerpt reading: "The learning sessions are packed with content, research, and strategies to take back home. However, when you step into an engagement session, the rules shift.Instead of quietly listening and taking notes, you will find yourself laughing, moving, teaming up with strangers, and maybe even making a complete fool of yourself (in the best way possible)." Blog written by OLC Accelerate 2025 Engagement Co-chairs, Haley Sampson and Amy Johnson, The University of Arizona Global Campus
October 1, 2025 at 2:21 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🛠️ Creating inclusive, student-centered learning environments requires instructional strategies that adapt to diverse student needs.

🧠 In the latest #OLCInsights, learn how to ensure all learners feel supported and empowered to succeed.

🔗 bit.ly/InsightsResponsiveClassroom

#InstructionalDesign
Blog post cover, titled "The Responsive Classroom: Instructional Strategies that Reach Every Learner." Blog post excerpt reading: "Creating responsive learning experiences means designing instruction and developing curriculum that adapts to the diverse needs, backgrounds, and perspectives of all students. When we prioritize responsiveness in instructional design, we ensure that every learner has meaningful access to opportunities, support, and resources." Written by Manisha Sharan, Ph.D, Science program director, online campus and metro campus, Baker College and Kristina Marshal, JD, Director of Institutional Standards and Practices and adjunct professor, Oakland Community College.
September 22, 2025 at 5:55 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, discover how treating figurative language as operational logic can shape AI behavior with intention.

🔗 bit.ly/AC25ImmersionClassBlog3

Inspired? Join us for a pre-conference immersion class at #OLCAccelerate2025 👉 bit.ly/AC25ImmersionClasses

#OLCAccelerate
Blog post cover, titled "Shaping the Mind of the Machine". Blog post excerpt, reading: "LLMs are pattern-matching engines, and their predictions are shaped by deep, symbolic patterns in human language. Style becomes structure. Tone becomes instruction. Story becomes output. Figurative elements in a prompt aren’t decorative; they’re operational. They frame tone, establish genre, and cue the model’s pattern-matching capability.“ Written by Ceredwyn Alexander, Founder/CIO, Bryan Alexander Consulting, LLC
August 28, 2025 at 2:35 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🧐 Collecting data is easy. Making it meaningful is the challenge.

🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, learn how a team from Embry-Riddle transformed raw institutional data into an interactive, actionable dashboard.

🔗 bit.ly/InsightsDataData

#OnlineLearning #HigherEd
Blog post cover, titled: "Data, Data, everywhere, nor any drop to drink...: Blog post excerpt, reading: "“Many institutions, including the one we work for, do a great job of collecting data. Data about students’ performance in a class; data regarding how well faculty teach a class; data on where students are from; data, data, data! But then what? How do we get the data from its raw form into something tangible? How do we get faculty, course developers, and even the institution itself to act on the data collected?“ Written by John R. Boekenoogen, Ph.D., and Juan Carlos Flores Calderon, MS.C., from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
August 15, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
✍️ Join Dr. Beatty at #OLCAccelerate2025 for an interactive immersion class that goes beyond the AI hype.

🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights get a sneak peak of the concrete strategies and hands-on experiences you can expect at this immersion class. bit.ly/ImmersionClassBlog2

#OLCAccelerate #GPT
Blog cover: OLC Accelerate Immersion Class "From AI Curiosity to Course Design: Engaging Learners with Custom GPTs." Blog excerpt: "Whether you're curious about prompt design, interested in student-facing AI tools, or already building your own custom GPTs, you'll find something valuable here. If you teach online or hybrid courses, support faculty development, or design instructional content, this session will equip you with concrete strategies and hands-on experience to bring back to your campus program." Written by Dr. Brian Beatty, Professor of Instructional Design and Technology at San Francisco State University.
August 12, 2025 at 2:31 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🌉 In the Latest #OLCInsights, preview "From Barriers to Bridges: Using AI to Create Accessible and Inclusive Learning Environments", a hands-on Immersion Class at #OLCAccelerate2025

🔗 bit.ly/AC25ImmersionClassBlog1

#A11y #OnlineLearning #GenAI #OLCAccelerate
OLC Accelerate blog post cover, titled "Teaching with AI Squared: Artificial Intelligence for Accessibility and Inclusion". Blog post excerpt, reading: “[AI] can help level the playing field—not by replacing human empathy or creativity, but by supporting it. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep into this work, I hope you’ll join us for this hands-on, energizing session where we won’t just talk about these possibilities, but actually get to try them out firsthand using a collection of free and low cost tools.“ Written by Kaitlin Garrett, Instructional Designer, Online Learning Consortium
August 6, 2025 at 2:29 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🌌 Constellations of Change: Navigating Identity and Innovation at the 2025 Instructional Design Summit

🔗 In the Latest #OLCInsights, get an in-depth preview of the topics, speakers, and workshops you can expect from the ID Summit at #OLCAccelerate2025 ➡️ bit.ly/AC25IDSummitBlog
OLC Accelerate 2025 blog post cover, titled "Constellations of Change: Navigating Identity and Innovation at the 2025 Instructional Design Summit". Blog post excerpt: "By exploring both the identity and innovation sides of instructional design, we aim to create a space where people feel connected and challenged. Our goal is not just to observe the stars, but to start mapping new constellations together. Whether you’re a practitioner, scholar, leader, or aspiring designer, this Summit is your space to contribute to a broader conversation and shape the future of our field.“ Written by Josh Herron, Ph.D. Director of Professional Learning, Online Learning Consortium
July 30, 2025 at 2:06 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🖋️ In the latest #OLCInsights, explore how educators are shifting from product-based to process-based assessment, embracing collaboration, digital literacy, and authentic learning strategies.

Read the Insights: bit.ly/InsightsReshapingAssessment

#OnlineLearning #GenAI #HigherEd
Blog post cover, titled "Beyond the Take Home Essay: How AI is Reshaping Assessment in Digital Learning". Blog post excerpt: "By focusing on process over product, collaboration over competition, and critical thinking over content creation, we can prepare students for a world where working alongside AI is the norm, not the exception." Written by Stacy Ybarra, Ed.D., Director, Center for Teaching Excellence, Our Lady of the Lake University
July 28, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🎓🤝 In the latest #OLCVolunteerSpotlight, Ali shares her journey from early childhood educator to higher education leader. Learn how Ali has helped shape the OLC experience—and why she encourages others to get involved.

🔗 bit.ly/AliRiefSpotlight

#OLCVolunteer #OLCInsights #OLCAccelerate2025
This month's OLCVolunteer Spotlight is Allison Rief!
July 25, 2025 at 2:05 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
🏔️🎙️ In the latest #OLCInsights, explore the EvolvEX Summit panel’s key takeaways, revealing both challenges and opportunities as K–12 and higher ed navigate a rapidly evolving landscape.

🖋️ Read the Insights: bit.ly/EvolvEXSummitReflections
Blog post cover, titled "AI in Education: Teaching Transformation, Educator Skill Development, Ethical Considerations". Blog post excerpt, reading: "As AI reshapes learning, cross-sector dialogue, ethical design, and a focus on AI literacy, ethical awareness, critical confidence, a shared pedagogical language, and teacher facilitation will be essential to ensure its responsible and inclusive use. Continued collaboration between K–12, higher education, and higher education will be critical to shaping an equitable, innovative, and human-focused AI-driven future for education.“ Written by Carrie Lewis Miller, Ph.D, Senior Researcher at the Online Learning Consortium
July 21, 2025 at 2:17 PM
onlinelearningconsortium.org
👉 The June 2025 #OLCSnapSurvey results are in!

📈📚 How do instructional design professionals learn the necessary tech skills for evolving job requirements?

🔗 Discover the trends we found in the latest #OLCInsights! bit.ly/SnapSurveyResultsJune25
Blog post cover for the June 2025 Snap Survey results, covering instructional design-related professional upskilling.
July 11, 2025 at 2:55 PM