BOLTT Toronto Conference

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Keynote Speaker - CANeLearn; Canadian e-Learning Roundup: Leadership Perspectives; Policy; and Practices from Canada

Speaker(s): Michael Barbour; Randy LaBonte
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Join a panel of Canadian leaders and researchers as they share successes and issues about current and future e-learning policy and practice in Canada.  Join us to see how evolving Canadian practice and policy can help guide your own.Supporting Websites–  CANeLearn research projects (https://canelearn.net/home/research/projects/) –  Canadian eLearning Network (CANeLearn - https://canelearn.net/) –  State of the Nation: K-12 e-Learning in Canada (https://k12sotn.ca/)

6:40 PM - 7:30 PM Innovative ways to enhance your online courses to promote student engagement and success

Speaker(s): Chantal Picard
Room: Ottawa
During this presentation; we will share impactful ways to boost engagement and success using a wide range of web tools.  Tools and applications explored are : Genially can be used in a variety of ways; such as : classroom organization; gamifying; review concepts; interactive lessons and many more. Padlet is another versatile tool that can be used in many ways; such as : class discussions; collaborative assignments; folders of student evaluation examples.  Canva is a simple design and layout website that has many applications; such as : communication with parents and teachers; creating a badging reward system that can easily be integrated in your online course. As well as beautiful infographics; how to;  graphic design; memes and calendars. Come explore these great ideas that you can easily implement in your courses that are validated by student's feedback.

6:40 PM - 7:30 PM Pre-Conference Activities and Social

Speaker(s):
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Join us for some fun evening activities and festivities; including a Demo Slam; to meet your fellow conference attendees; build your network and enjoy some laughs along the way.

7:40 PM - 8:30 PM Thrift shopping in the CAVLFO's bag of tricks

Speaker(s): Daniel Dubé
Room: Ottawa
Why not recycle successful practices? Our institution has implemented come interesting LTI integrations to Brightspace to make it easier to use and collect data from these 3rd party apps. Come see how we use Padlet and Edpuzzle to enhance our courses.

7:40 PM - 8:30 PM Pre-Conference Activities and Networking

Speaker(s):
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Join us for part two of our fun evening activities and festivities to meet more conference attendees; continue to build your network and enjoy another session of entertainment and laughter.

8:40 PM - 10:30 PM Evening Social

Speaker(s):
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Join us for a relaxed opportunity to have a drink; chat with other conference attendees and enjoy some snacks; compliments of our conference sponsors.

8:40 AM - 9:50 AM Welcome and Main Keynote Speaker - Dwayne Matthews

Speaker(s): Dwayne Matthews
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Join us and be inspired by the words of our keynote speaker; Dwayne Matthews. Dwayne is an education strategist and innovation evangelist who focuses on the future of education; disruptive innovation; and the future of work. He is the founder of TomorrowNow Learning Labs and advises global leaders on the fourth industrial revolution technologies and their impact on education and the economy.

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Trousses d’appui; outils d’aide virtuelle offerts par le CAVLFO.

Speaker(s): Chantal Picard
Room: Montreal B
Les technologies d’aide; à la fois disponible dans un environnement Google; Microsoft et sur le Web; permettent à l’élève de s’outiller face aux exigences d’un cours en ligne. Une Trousse d'accompagnement fut développée par le CAVLFO qui met en vedette divers outils informatiques favorisant la lecture; l’écriture; la gestion du temps; l’organisation afin d’accroître la réussite académique des élèves. Des astuces et tutoriels sont aussi mis à la disposition des élèves par l’entremise de cette trousse d’appui afin de faciliter le développement de l’autonomie et de la confiance en soi tout au long de ses apprentissages. Lors de cet atelier; les participants pourront explorer la trousse d’appui du CAVLFO avec l’aide de l’animatrice.

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM OeLC AGM - Members Only

Speaker(s): Jon Procter
Room: Ottawa
OeLC Board of Director (Board Member) Meeting.Agenda and Links are sent separately to those who should be in attendance

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Grade & Glide: Innovating Assessment & Evaluation with Google Sheets & Single Point Rubrics

Speaker(s): Julian Daher
Room: Montreal A
Unlock the power of efficient assessment & evaluation practices! Dive into the transformative world of Google Sheets and explore the simplicity of single-point rubrics. This PD session offers hands-on techniques for streamlining evaluations; fostering clearer feedback; and embracing tech-smart grading. 'Glide' on in and level up your assessment game!

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM You too can be Gru! Intelligent Agents can be your minions

Speaker(s): Nicole Schrock
Room: Toronto B
In this session; we will introduce what an intelligent agent is and walk though step by step how to set one up. Bring your device and get ready to create a virtual minion to message your students for you. Let the minions do the work through intelligent agents.

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Redesigning the Task

Speaker(s): Allana Wayda; Jen Edwards
Room: Toronto A
Our presentation will look at proactive ways to provide students with multiple entry points within the Virtual Learning Environment. We will dive into Discussions; Building Content and rethinking A&E.

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Supporting Student Literacy in eLearning and Remote Learning Classes

Speaker(s): Andrea Kleinsteuber
Room: London
No matter which subject you are teaching; the specific vocabulary and text types can make comprehension a struggle for students. This session will explore strategies that can be applied before; during and after reading in order to strengthen student content literacy. We will also highlight VLE tools that can support your literacy initiatives.

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Using Grades and Mastery View - Part 1 of 2

Speaker(s): Trevor Pratt
Room: Mississauga A
This 2 session presentation will cover the setup and use of Grades and expectations in Brightspace. Participants will learn how to incorporate expectations to student work; evaluate with rubrics and expectations and view/modify overall achievement in Mastery View.

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Best Practices for Managing PRISM including NEW FEATURES!

Speaker(s): Cheryl Rader; Kim Poirier; Michelle Pollington
Room: Mississauga B
The first half of the session will cover best practices for student and class management in PRISM. We will also demonstrate the use of the newest features for accepting students into your classes. The second half of the session will be an open forum Q & A Session. Please bring your questions and we will do our best to bring the answers!

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Solidify Student Success in Mathematics

Speaker(s): Saarah Broadbent
Room: Mississauga C
Discover a suite of impactful virtual tools to enhance your math lessons and solidify student success! Using student-focused learning experiences; comprehensive teacher support materials and data reporting; these tools help educators investigate where students need support and how to help. Engage in simulations that focus attention; encourage growth and provide a safe environment for all learners!

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Do AIs Dream of Student Learning (Redux) - Part 1 of 2

Speaker(s): Payton Jacklin
Room: New York
The rise of AI tools; like Google's Bard; Meta's Llama; and Open AI's ChatGPT is increasingly calling into question the authenticity of assessment of student learning. No longer do plagiarism checkers allow teachers to be confident that the work submitted to them actually reflects what a student knows; or can do. This problem is felt most acutely in eLearning courses where teachers are unable to have students complete the work in front of them ‘in class’. This session’s goal is to describe/demonstrate the challenges presented by AI tools; and provide solutions to these challenges. Key areas of focus will be classroom management practices and assessment design. This 2 session presentation is a repeated and reimagined version of a presentation given at BOLTT Ottawa in 2023.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Leveraging Digital Tools to Support Multilingual Learners

Speaker(s): Heather Bilder
Room: Montreal B
This session will explore how various digital tools can be leveraged to support multilingual learners to engage in educational settings. Participants will learn about a variety of free and paid digital tools that can be used in their practice immediately.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Comparing CANeLearn Design Principles for K-12 Online Learning with Researched Models and Standards: Principles to guide

Speaker(s): Michael Barbour; Randy LaBonte
Room: Ottawa
Building on the previous work of DLC and QM matters quality experts; this session offers insights to principles and standards for quality K-12 online learning by exploring connections to researched models specific to K-12 online learning effective practices.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Using PRISM to Shine a Light on Student Success

Speaker(s): Brian Chen; Lisa Bruce; Todd Pottle
Room: Toronto B
Join us for a deep dive into how PRISM can be used to effectively support student success by opening lines of communication between student support networks.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM SMART Technologies – Lumio for everyone

Speaker(s): Alek Kolga
Room: Toronto A
This is a session to see what’s new in Lumio. How G2 reviews stacks it up against … the others. And an opportunity to ask questions about the latest research and Logic Model. Come see the on-demand Lumio Academy; and then take it back to your district; complimentary of course.Last; come to learn what you can do to support a Provincial Agreement; giving all teachers access to this platform.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM eLearning Consensus Workshop: Building Collaborative Insights

Speaker(s): Angelo Bellavia; Ryan Stratford
Room: London
In this workshop; participants will engage in discussions and consensus-building activities to explore eLearning's current status; future potential; benefits; challenges; and evolving teaching practices. By delving into these multifaceted aspects; attendees will be empowered to make informed decisions and navigate the evolving landscape of online education effectively.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Using Grades and Mastery View - Part 2 of 2

Speaker(s): Trevor Pratt
Room: Mississauga A
This 2 session presentation will cover the setup and use of Grades and expectations in Brightspace. Participants will learn how to incorporate expectations to student work; evaluate with rubrics and expectations and view/modify overall achievement in Mastery View.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Navigating the eLearning Frontier: Lessons from My First Year as a Full-Time eLearning Teacher

Speaker(s): Dianne Fitzpatrick
Room: Mississauga C
Are you embarking on your eLearning teaching journey or looking to enhance your online teaching skills? Join me in this workshop where I'll share my insights and strategies acquired during my inaugural year as a full-time eLearning instructor. During our session; we will delve into several critical aspects of eLearning. I'll reveal my method for managing student information; communication; and organization; including the use of a Learner Profile Spreadsheet.  I’ll also share my strategy for smoothly welcoming and integrating new students into your virtual classroom during the ever-evolving first month. Plus; I'll showcase how I use Student Daily Agendas for enhanced organization and communication. We'll delve into the world of assignment feedback; sharing my system for tracking common comments; facilitating detailed responses; and fostering efficient student communication. Furthermore; I’ll share my experiences with Ministry Course Shells; exploring practical insights; tips; and lessons from my own experiences. I'll also delve into my strategies for empowering student engagement and ownership through choice and voice in the eLearning environment. To top it off; I'll provide insights into video creation and embedding into my Brightspace shell rather than just putting links into my courses.  Other tips and tricks will be shared as well.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Fostering Meaningful Connections: A Discussion on Building Relationships with Students

Speaker(s): Kim Wagner; Cathy Beauchamp
Room: Mississauga B
Join us for a conversational and informative workshop; where we will engage in a discussion; sharing session on the art of building strong connections with students and key stakeholders; like parents/guardians and teachers. In today's online learning landscape; fostering meaningful relationships is more critical than ever; as it forms the cornerstone of successful teaching and learning. In this session; we encourage active participation and open dialogue as we explore strategies on how to establish and nurture these success-building connections. Leave the workshop with actionable insights to transform your own educational practices.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Maximiser la réussite des élèves avec les Pratiques Créateur+ de Brightspace

Speaker(s): Kristina Beifuss
Room: Montreal A
Dans cette pr�sentation; les participants apprendront comment lEAV peut �tre utilis� pour aider les apprenants � se pr�parer aux tests provinciaux standardis�s. Nous explorerons les types de questions offertes par Cr�ateur Ins�rer une pratique qui permettent au personnel enseignant de cr�er des activit�s d'apprentissage interactives et engageantes pour aider les �l�ves � tester leur compr�hension et � recevoir une r�troaction imm�diate dans un environnement � faible enjeu. Cette approche renforce la confiance de l'�l�ve et r�duit l'anxi�t� li�e aux �valuations.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Do AIs Dream of Student Learning (Redux) - Part 2 of 2

Speaker(s): Payton Jacklin
Room: New York
The rise of AI tools; like Google's Bard; Meta's Llama; and Open AI's ChatGPT is increasingly calling into question the authenticity of assessment of student learning. No longer do plagiarism checkers allow teachers to be confident that the work submitted to them actually reflects what a student knows; or can do. This problem is felt most acutely in eLearning courses where teachers are unable to have students complete the work in front of them ‘in class’. This session’s goal is to describe/demonstrate the challenges presented by AI tools; and provide solutions to these challenges. Key areas of focus will be classroom management practices and assessment design. This 2 session presentation is a repeated and reimagined version of a presentation given at BOLTT Ottawa in 2023.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Process over Product in the Age of AI

Speaker(s): Jim Mason
Room: Mississauga B
Building on the presentation we did at BOLTT in Kanata in May of this year; we would like to refine and expand the same content and strategies; opening up discussion and sharing of resources/methods. Discussion will focus on the challenges; pitfalls and potential of AI (i.e ChatGPT); and a consideration of tools such as Pecha Kucha; or adapted versions of such tools and concepts; to integrate simple and accurate assessments of processes leading to a final product.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Intelligence artificielle - S'adapter à la révolution

Speaker(s): Daniel Dubé
Room: Montreal B
Avec l'arrivée de l'intelligence artificielle; le monde de l'éducation fait face à un dilemme: on empêche et on résiste ou on s'ajuste et on éduque? Cette session permettra aux participants de discuter et de réfléchir sur la meilleure voie à emprunter pour gérer cette nouvelle réalité. Nous parlerons de l'approche que nous empruntons au CAVLFO et de la façon que nous affrontons ce dilemme.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Using Brightspace to Track Outcomes

Speaker(s): Carey Eldridge; Trevor Martin
Room: Ottawa
Brightspace is a one-stop shop for the collection and correlation of data connected to Outcomes Based Assessment. Teachers can attach and assess Outcomes in every tool in Brightspace. This is then correlated in the Outcomes View and in the View Progress Tool. This allows teachers and students an overview of student achievement in a particular Outcome. Using Brightspace also allows Admin; Guidance and Student Success Teachers to have a clear idea of a student's achievement.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Engaging all learners with Canva for Education

Speaker(s): Tara Potter
Room: Toronto B
Did you know that Canva for Education offers premium accounts for teachers?! Choose from thousands of educational templates for any topic or grade. It’s perfect for the online; in-person or blended classroom. Session attendees will get an overview of using Canva; how to find; use and modify templates to create engaging and meaningful lessons for students. This session is guaranteed to save you valuable time and energy for future lesson planning. Get creative with Canva!

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Supporting Student Success in Online and Blended Environments

Speaker(s): Andrew Bieronski
Room: Toronto A
Supporting students to find success in eLearning and Remote settings brings unique challenges for students who may struggle to attend; engage and/or show their learning. This raises the qustion of what do Student Success settings and support look in in asyncrhonous and sycnrhonous online classes; along with blended models of learning? The WRDSB has been exploring these questions and is excited to share their learning. This session will introduce their newly created Blended Learning Support Teacher (BLST) role; which is a dedicated Student Success Teacher focused on supporting online students via their home school. We'll share our learning; best practices; how we leverage the tools in PRISM; including their new Referral tool; and overall thinking and learning in this area.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Asynchronous Conversations in a Mathematics Class

Speaker(s): Maria Carone; Amanda MacIntosh
Room: London
In this interactive session; we will explore strategies that promote active learning in Mathematics in an asynchronous online environment and empower learners to exercise their agency and ownership through problem solving using the co-construction of knowledge and skills and meaningful collaboration that supports multiple access points. Participants will engage with examples of problem-solving activities that simulate conversations between students as well as conversations between students and teachers that both offer opportunities for triangulated assessment. Attendees: please bring a device!

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM eLearning from an Administrator's Angle

Speaker(s): Jeff Allison
Room: Mississauga A
During this discussion-focused session we will address issues; concerns; and successes around the delivery of eLearning programs from an Administrator's perspective. Some discussion prompts will be shared; and plenty of time will be given to participants in this session to discuss their views.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM VLE Tools to Help Streamline Communication and Observation

Speaker(s): Lu Angel
Room: Mississauga C
This session will provide some helpful ideas on how to use communication and observation in your online classroom; as well as suggestions for helpful tools.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Unleashing the Power of Digital Portfolios for Classroom and Online Learning

Speaker(s): Kristian Fernandez-Brown; Lisa Stephens
Room: New York
We know that in today’s landscape; learning knows no bounds - it happens online; outside the classroom; during group projects; in extracurriculars; at the family dinner table; and in moments of individual discovery. This presentation will demonstrate how digital portfolios within SpacesEDU by myBlueprint serve as the ideal platform to capture this learning journey - breaking down the barriers between physical and digital learning spaces; allowing educators; students; and families to engage in their education - anytime; anywhere!Attendees will leave with practical applications of SpacesEDU’s digital portfolio tool; including how to:-Connect student work to cross-curricular outcomes-Facilitate teacher and peer feedback-Promote reflection and deeper learning-Empower students to document and showcase their learning across a range of subjects and media formats - in a way that is meaningful to them-Provide a window into the digital and physical classroom for families

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM Maximizing Impact: Elevating Your Assessment Game

Speaker(s): Gillian Read
Room: Montreal A
With the ever-expanding demands placed on educators; how do we ensure our efforts ultimately improve student learning? In this session; we will explore the art of prioritizing impact by focusing on evidence-based assessment practices proven to increase student achievement. Join us to unlock the full potential of assessment as a driving force for student success; paving a more efficient path to achieving your instructional goals.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Des moyens innovants pour améliorer vos cours en ligne afin de promouvoir l'engagement et la réussite de vos élèves

Speaker(s): Chantal Picard
Room: Montreal B
Lors de cet atelier; nous partagerons des stratégies efficaces pour stimuler l'engagement et le succès en exploitant l'intégration d'outils web. Nous explorerons les applications suivantes : Genially; un outil multifonction qui offre diverses possibilités d'utilisation; telles que l'organisation de la salle de classe; la gamification; la révision de concepts; la création de leçons interactives; et bien d'autres encore. Padlet;  peut être mis à profit de nombreuses manières; notamment pour les discussions en classe; les devoirs collaboratifs; et la constitution de dossiers d'évaluations des étudiants. Canva; un site web de conception et de mise en page convivial qui offre de multiples applications; notamment la communication avec les parents et les enseignants; des infographies; des guides pratiques; des créations graphiques ainsi que des calendriers pratiques. Nous vous invitons à explorer ces idées innovantes; qui peuvent être mises en œuvre aisément dans vos cours et qui ont été validées par les retours positifs de nos élèves.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Release Conditions: The Path to Customized Learning

Speaker(s): Lynn Thomas
Room: Ottawa
Learn all about Release Conditions and the many ways that they can be used to customize and differentiate learning paths. Incorporating release conditions; best practices and innovative uses - like gamifying the learning - will be shared.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Creating an Engaging and Accessible Online Environment

Speaker(s): Anthony Staibano; Betty Hicks; Sarah Bereziuk
Room: Toronto B
This session will focus on creating an online environment for virtual learners that is engaging; easy to navigate; accessible and appealing. Participants will be introduced to design elements that help students access content with ease;  stay organized and focused and communicate with teacher and classmates. In addition; strategies for assessment and evaluation will be showcased.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Maximizing Student Success with Brightspace Creator+ Practices

Speaker(s): Renata Martone; April Tanner
Room: Toronto A
In this presentation; attendees will learn how the VLE can be utilized to support learners in preparation for provincial standardized testing. We will explore the powerful question types offered by Creator Insert Practices that allow educators to create interactive; engaging learning activities to help students test their comprehension and receive immediate feedback in a low-stakes environment; building learner confidence and reducing test anxiety.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Virtual Elementary Education: (Re)Defined

Speaker(s): Sumeeta Merwar; Raquel Cariati
Room: London
In this presentation; we delve into the transformative journey of education in the digital age. We explore how virtual learning has evolved; adapting to the changing needs of students and the demands of a dynamic job market. Our focus is on three key areas: Virtual Learning Evolution; Building Strong Communities; and Preparing for the Unknown. Through this presentation; we will shed light on the ever-changing landscape of education; where virtual learning is a driving force in meeting the diverse needs of students; fostering strong communities; and ensuring students are ready for the challenges of tomorrow's job market. Join us as we explore the past; present; and future of education in a digital age.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Evidence of learning in eLearning through the D2L Portfolio tool

Speaker(s): Michelle Booth
Room: Mississauga A
This presentation will look at on-going and culminating portfolios to show evidence of learning in an eLearning class. Portfolios are a great option to: help triangulate data replace a final exam allow for student agency/voice show process or ongoing learning in project-based learning. Hands-on learning of the D2L portfolio tool will be included

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Supporting Language Learners in Online Education - Part 1 of 2

Speaker(s): Melanie Goode
Room: Mississauga B
Creating engaging and community building classrooms is a primary tenet of modern online learning; but what about those students who struggle with the primary language of instruction? What tools do they need? How can instructors adapt their teaching without adding more work? What community building activities can be added that reduce the need for verbal language? What cultural awareness do teachers need to understand to better assist their immigrant and refugee students with integrating into the virtual classroom? In this 2 session presentation; you will hear student stories that give cultural context; practice adapting verbal instructions; learn and practice less verbal community building activities; and finally; learn and practice using online tools that can support your language learner students.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Outcome-Based Assessment in MCV4UV (Calculus and Vectors)

Speaker(s): Jennifer Moynahan; Chelsea Evans
Room: Mississauga C
In this presentation we will be discussing structuring MCV 4U assessments using OBA (including course-specific outcomes); utilizing face-to-face conferencing in an asynchronous environment; types of extended understanding questions and a brief marking overview with organizational tips and tricks.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM AI for Teaching and Instruction

Speaker(s): Cheryl Caldwell; Allana Wayda
Room: New York
Join us for an insightful seminar exploring the transformative potential of AI in education. Discover innovative ways AI can serve as a powerful resource to enhance instruction and provide valuable feedback to students; revolutionizing the learning experience.

2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Spreadsheet Skill Builder

Speaker(s): Chris Atkinson
Room: Montreal A
We all use Spreadsheets; but would you like to up your game manipulating data in Spreadsheets? We will work through a number of different skills (VLookup; Index/Match; Conditional Formatting; Substring Isolation; Split Data) through the lens of a teacher or administrator with a big class list of useful information. Bring your device so you can practice to be a Spreadsheet wizard.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM Learners of all Levels: Supporting Students with Diverse Learning Needs in Brightspace

Speaker(s): Laurie Moore
Room: Montreal B
Let's explore the wide variety of features that Brightspace has to help support students with diverse learning needs. This workshop will demonstrate tools to use to accommodate and modify for a variety of learners.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM The eLearning Chronicles: Lessons from a Digital Narnia

Speaker(s): Kyle Geerlings; Nicole Schrock
Room: Ottawa
Enter the wardrobe into the new frontier of eLearning that we are all working to innovate and problem-solve in real time. There are many unique challenges to student learning that educators face when navigating an eLearning course. This interactive presentation will explore the five most common barriers that teachers encounter in their eLearning class and provide tangible strategies and Brightspace tools to overcome these barriers to further cultivate student learning. A duo from Grand Erie; Kyle is a current eLearning teacher and Nicole the TeLTc; which brings different lenses and experiences to presentation. Whether new to eLearning or a veteran in the field; there should be something concrete that every educator can walk away with to apply to their class the next day.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM Creating Engaging Discussion Communities in an Asynchronous Environment

Speaker(s): Cheryl Breen
Room: Toronto B
This presentation will look at the importance of rich and varied discussions in Asynchronous environments; as well as present some varied methods to have our students actively engage in discussions. Discussions are a staple in an asynchronous online learning environment but in order to be effective they "... must be intentionally built to foster student collaboration and critical thinking." Varied settings and strategies are used to yield high levels of active learning and participation. Let’s discover how active discussions can harness the creativity and prior knowledge our students embody.  Citation: Novak; K.; & Thibodeau; T. (2016). UDL in the cloud!: How to design and deliver online education using Universal Design for Learning. CAST Professional Publishing.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM Supercharging Assessment: Unleashing AI's Power in eLearning

Speaker(s): Audra Abromaitis; Julian Daher
Room: Toronto A
Join us for an engaging session where we explore innovative pedagogical and assessment practices in the eLearning environment and how Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the way we measure student success. Discover practical strategies to harness AI's potential for more creative; efficient; and insightful approaches to assessment and evaluation in your teaching practice.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM When School is a Barrier to Education: An Argument for Blended Learning

Speaker(s): Teresa Dunat
Room: London
Educators like to think of school as an inclusive; welcoming place where all students can explore; learn and develop social connections.  For some students; school is a place where they experience sensory overload; intense anxiety and social isolation. Some students have medical needs that make it difficult for them to consistently attend school.  These students need an alternative option that enables them to explore; learn and develop social connections in a way that removes barriers and meets their needs. Blended Learning can provide this alternative.  This workshop will explain the Blended Learning model as it has been implemented by the Waterloo Region District School Board from the perspective of an educator who is also a parent of a student who struggles with attending school but who thrives in the Blended Learning model.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM Succeeding in student success. Successful tips to ensure e-learning students succeed successfully

Speaker(s): Michelle Pollington; Richard Gelder
Room: Mississauga A
The presenter has twenty years of e-learning experience and is currently supporting 250 students in his school currently enrolled in e-learning course. He will share his experiences in motivating and keeping students engaged in e-learning and other distance learning. Specific; real examples will be shared as well as a list of dos and don'ts.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM Supporting Language Learners in Online Education - Part 2 of 2

Speaker(s): Melanie Goode
Room: Mississauga B
Creating engaging and community building classrooms is a primary tenet of modern online learning; but what about those students who struggle with the primary language of instruction? What tools do they need? How can instructors adapt their teaching without adding more work? What community building activities can be added that reduce the need for verbal language? What cultural awareness do teachers need to understand to better assist their immigrant and refugee students with integrating into the virtual classroom? In this 2 session presentation; you will hear student stories that give cultural context; practice adapting verbal instructions; learn and practice less verbal community building activities; and finally; learn and practice using online tools that can support your language learner students.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM ENL 1W on Brightspace: Engaging Students through Outcomes-Based Assessment

Speaker(s): Laura Sabourin; Kylie Lozon
Room: Mississauga C
This dynamic workshop outlines a 20-lesson Grade 9 destreamed English course (ENL1W); designed for Brightspace. While initially designed for the summer semester; this course can easily adapt to the regular school year. Discover engaging lessons and innovative outcomes-based assessment strategies that captivate students' interest. The course is designed to unlock the potential of students by meeting them where they are at and empowering their abilities.

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM What difference can Mathify and other TVO Learn resources make for educators in supporting individual learners?

Speaker(s): Peter Bolton
Room: New York
This will be an interactive discussion about some of the current desires; concerns; and limitations many educators feel (in Grade 4 to 12) about supporting students in their individual learning needs; especially in Math. We will look at how strategic use of Mathify and other free TVO Learn platforms and resources can open up new opportunities for students and educators. This will be of particular interest to those educators and system leaders who are not 'math' types; and/or who want to enhance the digital learning experience for learners. (If you know SERTs; EAs; Student Success/Credit Recovery teachers; and others in Student Services planning to attend BOLTT; draw their attention to this workshop...they will be glad they chose it! Math teachers are also welcome.)

3:10 PM - 4:00 PM Authentic & Active Online Learning: Unleash the POWER of Creator+; Announcements; Check-lists; Video Instructions; Teach

Speaker(s): Alyssa Macri
Room: Montreal A
This presentation will help educators become familiar with the ready-to-use tools brightspace has to offer such as Creator ; announcements; check-lists; video instruction; and more! Educators will learn about the importance of creating a safe; welcoming environment for students that promotes exploration of interests and curiosities in an interactive and supportive online environment.  Specifically; Creator offers educators the opportunity to create advanced interactive course content that is authentic and engaging for all students. Save time with ready-made templates; increase engagement; add multimedia elements; and maintain consistency in just a few easy steps!

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Buffet Dinner

Speaker(s):
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Please join us for a buffet dinner as you prepare for Wednesday's evening activities. Note: This is an additional fee item.

6:30 PM - 8:20 PM CANeLearn Panel Discussion - Education’s Future in a World of Generative Artificial Intelligence

Speaker(s): Randy LaBonte; John Watson
Room: Ottawa
Bring your imagination to this Bluesky discussion about the role and impact generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) could have on education in 3 to 5 years. What might we imagine teaching and learning will look like?  How will your education program change?  Your challenge; by joining this lively discussion; is to focus on one or two education program functions that GenAI might impact:Administrative TasksContent DevelopmentLearning AccessLearning SupportLearning AssessmentThe session is not about what GenAI can do now (although links about that will be shared); rather the conversation is about imagining together the implications of every student and teacher having a personalized learning assistant.  An assistant to generate; simplify; or translate content; create and evaluate questions and answers; track students’ and teachers’ strengths and weaknesses; or create prompts about what to do while engaging conversationally.  Join us to explore how roles could change along with curriculum and instruction.

8:30 PM - 9:30 PM Evening Social - Network and Consolidating

Speaker(s):
Room: Plaza AB Ballroom
Join us for a relaxed opportunity to consolidate the day's learning; have a drink; chat with other conference attendees and enjoy some snacks; compliments of our conference sponsors.

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM Design Principles for Digital Learning and NSQOL Standards: Commonalities & Differences

Speaker(s): Randy LaBonte
Room: Ottawa
The CANeLearn Design Principles for Online Learning provide the context for a discussion of e-learning quality; standards; and accountability.  CANeLearn research into online learning class size; benefits; and successes will be highlighted to open a discussion of several of the pressure points facing e-learning in general and specifically in Canada.  Learn about the Canadian-based online learning design principles and their commonalities and differences to the National Standards for Quality Online Learning (NSQOL); application to pedagogy and practice; and how the elucidation and clarification of design and organization principles help inform administrative policy for quality online learning.  Parallels and lessons from across Canada will help to inform the implementation of policy; legislation; and funding changes currently underway in most provinces. Finally; upcoming CANeLearn research initiatives will be shared to enable delegates to help inform the CANeLearn research agenda to help meet the needs of leaders and practitioners across Canada.  Find our current research and reports published here: https://canelearn.net/home/research/  This is your opportunity to learn more about and to help shape the national research agenda for K-12 e-learning in Canada. Supporting WebsitesCANeLearn Design Principles National Validation Study http://4xs.add.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CANeLearn-Design-Principles-National-Validation-Study-Report.pdfCANeLearn Design Principles Compared with NSQOL and QM Standards http://4xs.add.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CANeLearn-Design-Principles-National-Validation-Study-Report.pdfCANeLearn Design Principles and Researched Models (in press to come)CANeLearn research projects (https://canelearn.net/home/research/projects/)

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Canadian Outreach to Afghan Girls: Offering International Online Education

Speaker(s):
Room: Ottawa
As a result of the Taliban’s ban on education for Afghan girls; Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan (CW4WAfghan) created a model “DD Classroom”; an online high school for girls in Afghanistan. CANeLearn was invited to support and mentor the teachers offering online classes for Afghan students in grades 7-8 (see CBC’s article on the initiative).  Classes use the Afghan curriculum taught by Afghan-certified teachers who can no longer work for public schools and are in need of employment. These teachers receive training from educators in the CANeLearn network to assist them in transitioning to teaching in the online learning environment effectively.Efforts are now focussing on the Canadian curriculum leading to a Canadian high school diploma.  Join this sharing session to learn more about the challenges and successes of providing international online learning from Canadian leaders

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Evidence-Informed Leadership in Online Programs

Speaker(s): Daylene Lauman; Randy LaBonte; Alison Hancox
Room: Ottawa
In this session; Alison and Daylene will highlight effective; evidence-informed leadership practices that contribute to improved student course completion and retention as well as improved instructional practices in the online learning environment. In addition; we will share how we are using data to inform our work regarding mental health supports for students and families.

11:10 AM - 12:00 PM Conversation with a Researcher

Speaker(s): Michael Barbour
Room: Ottawa
Best known as the founding researcher for the annual report that explores K-12 e-learning activity and regulation across Canada - State of the Nation: K-12 e-Learning in Canada; Michael was described as the most published researcher in the field of K-12 distance and online learning in 2019. This informal session is designed to turn the focus to the audience and give them a chance to drive the conversation. So bring your questions and issues with K-12 distance and online learning; and have a conversation with Michael about what we know about it from the research and from his over two decades of experience in the field.Supporting Websites:State of the Nation: K-12 e-Learning in Canada - https://k12sotn.ca/ Arnesen; K. T.; Hveem; J.; Short; C. R.; West; R.; & Barbour; M. K. (2019). K-12 online learning journal articles: Trends from two decades of scholarship. Distance Education; 40(1); 32-53. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329533946_K-12_online_learning_journal_articles_trends_from_two_decades_of_scholarship