As we enter a new semester, it’s a perfect opportunity to refresh our knowledge and skills as well as connect with peers in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The Teaching and Learning Excellence Division (TLED)’s Office of Academic Technology (OAT) proudly introduces the Fall 2024 Remote Recess sessions. These workshops are designed specifically for faculty looking to spruce up their technical toolkit while enjoying a collegial online gathering.

What is Remote Recess?

Whether you’re looking to master a new tool or simply connect with peers, these sessions are tailored to make learning accessible and enjoyable. Remote Recess sessions blend learning and leisure, allowing faculty to explore new technologies through short demonstrations followed by an interactive Q&A period. Each session encourages participants to exchange tips and insights, fostering a community of shared knowledge and innovative practices. 

Remote Recess sessions are open to all Austin Community College (ACC) faculty.

Fall 2024 Remote Recess Sessions: Schedule and Topics

Mark your calendar and prepare to dive into a semester of learning and connection. All sessions will either be offered on a Tuesday from 11 a.m. to noon or on a Wednesday from 2 to 3 p.m. via Zoom, promising a power-packed hour full of learning and interaction.

Tuesday, September 10 | Exploring Collaborative Whiteboard Tools
Are you a Google Jamboard user looking for a new tool? Are you curious about what a collaborative whiteboard can do for your classes? Join us to learn about what collaborative whiteboard tools are available and try using one in an online class environment.

Wednesday, September 18 | Office Hours with Zoom
This short workshop is an introduction to using Zoom for virtual office hours with your students.

Tuesday, September 24 | Save Time: AI Solutions for Universal Design and Accessibility
Join us to discover ways of using AI tools to make your course accessible and save yourself design time!

Wednesday, October 9 | Faculty Perspectives — Adobe Express Presentations Using Text to AI Features with Dr. C. Jason Vidrine
Join guest presenter Dr. C. Jason Vidrine, Professor of Communication Studies and Assistant Dean of Liberal Arts Area of Study, as he shows us how he uses Adobe Express’ presentation features and text-to-AI functionality to create engaging presentation materials for his classes.

Tuesday, October 22 | Panopto: Overview with Blackboard
Learn how to connect Panopto to Blackboard, create quizzes, and navigate student submissions.

Tuesday, October 29 | Getting Started with Panopto
Panopto is a powerful tool that features video creation and editing functionality; automatic machine captioning; and effortless access on desktop and mobile devices. Join this session to get some quick-start tips for this easy-to-use tool.

Wednesday, November 6 | Innovative Assessment Techniques: Utilizing Padlet, VoiceThread, and Poll Everywhere
Discover innovative ways to employ Padlet, VoiceThread, and Poll Everywhere in your classroom to capture and assess student learning. This workshop will cover practical examples and best practices to conduct real-time assessments and facilitate meaningful student feedback.

Tuesday, November 19 | Using AI Images for Learning
Discover different ways to use AI-generated images for both faculty and student needs.

Wednesday, December 4 | Designing VoiceThread Activities: A Student-Centered Approach
Learn how to design VoiceThread activities that cater to diverse learning preferences. Participants will review strategies to ensure all students can effectively engage with and benefit from VoiceThread assignments.

For more details or questions, contact TLED’s Academic Technology Projects Manager Sara Schulz at [email protected]