Step into a day of exploration, reflection, and innovation! Mini Development Day (Mini Dev Day) sponsors Austin Community College’s (ACC’s) inaugural Faculty Growth Series, inviting faculty and staff to imagine and shape new futures in teaching, learning, and engagement. Mini Dev Day will open with an in-person mixer on the evening of Thursday, October 23, followed by a day of engaging online sessions on Friday, October 24.
Through collaboration and conversation, you’ll explore three key themes that are shaping classrooms today:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Discover how generative AI is transforming higher education while raising critical questions around ethics, access, and academic integrity.
- Belonging, Purpose, and Connection: Explore strategies to foster inclusive classrooms where faculty and students thrive through authentic connection and shared purpose.
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Learn how to design adaptable, accessible learning experiences that honor the diversity of all learners.
Thursday, October 23 | Mini Dev Day Mixer (In-Person)
Highland Campus (HLC), Room TBD | Thursday, October 23 | 4–6 p.m.
Join us the evening before Mini Dev Day for a relaxed and creative mixer! Enjoy light refreshments, connect with colleagues, and unwind with art activities, Bingo, and community building.
This casual gathering is a chance to spark connections and recharge with a little fun, while kicking off ACC’s inaugural Faculty Growth Series: The Connected Classroom. Attendance at Mini Dev Day is not required to attend the Mixer.
Friday, October 24 | Schedule of Events (Online)
- 9:45–10 a.m. – Opening
- 10–11 a.m. – Session 1
- 11 a.m.–12 p.m. – Session 2
- 12:15–1:15 p.m. – Keynote Speech with Dr. James Basham
- 1:30–2:30 p.m. – Session 3
- 2:30–2:45 p.m. – Closing
Keynote Speaker: Dr. James Basham
Dr. James Basham is a professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Kansas. His research focuses on future-ready learning environments that are equitable, beneficial, and meaningful for all learners.
Dr. Basham’s expertise spans UDL, AI, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, learner-centered design, and innovation in human learning. He is the founder of the Center for Innovation, Design, and Digital Learning (CIDDL), has led multiple federally and privately funded projects, and is widely published. He has delivered hundreds of talks and serves on numerous national and international boards for journals, companies, and education organizations.
Why Attend?
Come curious. Leave inspired. This Mini Dev Day aligns with the Explorer Level of the Faculty Growth Series Framework—introducing foundational ideas in an engaging and accessible way. Sessions will feature:
- Practical classroom strategies
- Guided discussion with colleagues
- Resources you can apply directly to your teaching
Questions?
Visit the Mini Development Day web page or contact the Faculty Development team at [email protected].
Contributed by ACC Teaching & Learning Excellence Division