Title: Distance Learning Environments and Tools

Strand: ABC’s of Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Niares Hunn - St. Louis Community College - Florissant Valley

Abstract: The learning environment is crucial for successful instruction particularly in distance education. Hybrid, asynchronous, synchronous, and a blended learning environment can all be effective in motivating and enhancing student learning. Yet, various factors determine which learning environment is conducive to individual learning styles, context, and content areas. Incorporation of electronic tools, such as podcasting and instant messaging, can be useful. However, teachers must be provided with the necessary training in the use of these tools for instruction as well as techniques for evaluating this technology and its effectiveness. This session examines the best practices and diversities of learning environments for distance education along with the integration of technology that provides an active learning environment which allows learners to explore ideas and design projects that are meaningful and applicable to them.

Title: Preparing to Teach Your First Online Course

Strand: ABC’s of Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Odin Jurkowski - University of Central Missouri

Abstract: An online course is not simply a traditional course delivered electronically; it is an entirely different experience for the teacher and the learner. Before attempting to teach on-line, faculty should have basic training in the tools and technologies available at their institutions. A general overview with tips and tricks will help faculty make the adjustment to online instruction. This session will provide some of that basic information.

Title: Addressing the Remediation, Intervention and Reinforcement Needs of Students through a Web -based Tool

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter(s): Jacquelyn Reese - JEdI and Impact Education, Inc.

Abstract: For six years, a neighboring state has successfully addressed the needs of incarcerated, special education, alternative education, and at risk students through a program called JEdI. The Juvenile Education Initiative is now utilized throughout the state and includes a staff development component and a K-12 web tool that is research based and teacher driven. Participants will view the program and discuss the potential use of JEdI in Missouri.

Title: Leverage Multimedia in Your Online Courses

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Eric Fudge - State Fair Community College

Abstract: SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) provides instructors and developers of online courses the ability to seamlessly integrate products (quizzes, demonstrations, simulations, presentations) created by third party multimedia software packages into popular LMS (Learning Management System) applications. This session will discuss key issues, demonstrate the integration process, and provide practical insight on leveraging SCORM compliant multimedia in order to add another dimension to instruction.

Title: From Continuing Education to MIMHTraining.com

Strand: Instructional Practices in Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Joel Epstein, Kelly Gregory, Thom Pancella - Missouri Institute of Mental Health

Abstract: Since 1980, the Missouri Institute of Mental Health has provided Missouri's mental health and social service professionals with high-quality low-cost continuing education programs. Nearly all of our CE resources have been devoted to face-to-face instruction in either multi-day or half-day sessions with one speaker or dozens; learners must travel to us. Although some attention had been given to those that could not attend, a series of budget freezes, and withholds and cuts have seriously impacted not only our means of instruction but our customers’ operations as well. Many can no longer afford to send people to our live training program, yet the need for current information grows. As a result, our material is now provided in four different forms, two live and two enduring. Our online catalog is growing; our web conferences are gaining popularity, and we have a growing constituency outside of Missouri. We still offer live programs and planning services, but now we are completely comfortable designing and delivering training in any form our customers require. Our presentation will demonstrate how our unit made the transition from face-to-face instruction to utilizing the wealth of available distance learning technologies.

Title: Teaching Software and Computer Systems Courses Online Using Screencasting

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter(s): Clarence Maise - University of Missouri at St. Louis

Abstract: When teaching software or systems, the default option is to teach these courses on campus in a computer lab. Consider new virtual, hands-on delivery options. This presentation demonstrates how to create, package, and distribute your screencast. Learn how to be efficient and professional with your results. Learn how to change the culture in your educational setting to help users migrate to this digitally native way of conducting teaching.

Title: Going the Distance with Online and I-TV in MO High Schools

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Kathy Tally, John D. Williams - University of Central Missouri

Abstract: This presentation will highlight the growth and implementation of online and I-TV college credit courses offered through the University of Central Missouri. Courses range from general education to specialty areas such as nursing and criminal justice. The sharing of resources and the introduction of a course management tool (Blackboard) to students prior to their first on-campus experience or online experience outside of the high school environment has been beneficial.

Title: Free Web 2.0 Tools - Are They for Your Distance Learning Classroom

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Randy Malta - St. Louis Community College

Abstract: There are many Web 2.0 applications that can be useful in the distance education classroom. This session will look at some free tools that can be used for teacher-to-student teaching and student-to-student collaboration. The presentation will demonstrate some of the free tools that can be used for instruction in distance learning classes. A website for downloading the presentation handout and a listing of the free tools will be shared.

Title: Expanding Student Learning in the Print-Based Distance Environment

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter(s): John Nill – Global University

Abstract: Global University is a religious-based (Assemblies of God) distance learning institution (currently at candidate status with the NCA Higher Learning Commission). Our program is dedicated to leveling the playing field so that even the poorest in the world have a chance at an undergraduate education. To meet this goal, Global relies primarily on print materials; however, print materials are not always advantageous for expanding and applying what has been learned. Global University undergraduate courses require three additional components for course completion in the attempt to engage students in a deeper understanding of their coursework and further application of course information. The University also offers an online research center (ORC) for students with Internet access. This presentation will demonstrate and give examples of the three course components and the ORC.

Title: Moving Beyond Distance Learning

Strand: Instructional Practices in Distance Learning

Presenter(s): David Dunstedter - MDoT

Abstract: This presentation will give an update on Fort Leonard Wood’s efforts to host content, support both resident and distance learning, and establish blended learning. One case study of rapid development, the Joint Engineer Officer's Course, will be discussed. This presentation will also demonstrate courseware that was developed at FLW using a rapid development tool that is currently being used to reclassify soldiers and will discuss efforts to move to more global Knowledge Management practices across the workforce here at MANSCEN. We will also discuss linking training technology and classroom modernization plans with the installation's training plans.

Title: Mandarin Along the Chisholm Trail: IVC Makes It Possible

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Ann Lundy, Zhang Kun, Dr. Kay Highbarger - South Central KS Education Service Center

Abstract: The Service Center at Clearwater, Unified School District 628, operates as an interlocal district providing needed services in a collaborative framework. Through Interactive Video-Conferencing (IVC) we currently serve 20+ school districts. We brought a teacher from Wuhan, China, to our community in July 2007 with the help of the Kansas State Department of Education. Since then, Zhang Kun has developed classes for high school students and Chinese cultural programs for elementary students. We have developed a series of three cultural programs delivered through IVC. The first program introduces students to the language and geography of China; the second program "Lunar New Year" shares the traditions and rituals of the celebration; in the third program "One World, One Dream" students learn why hosting the summer Olympics is so important to China. Each interactive program is 30 minutes allowing time for students to ask questions. Programs have been sent to schools in Kansas, New York, New Jersey, Indiana, Virginia, and St. Louis, Missouri. We sent our first international connection to a school in Alberta, Canada. In a rural setting, hiring a teacher for studies such as Mandarin is impossible due to costs. However, this program has helped resolve much of the economic barrier. The instructor has the capability to send full motion video and audio to other sites which allows the students and the instructor to be totally interactive. Through the use of this technology, we are better able to provide rural students with opportunities that would otherwise be lost to them.

Title: Guidelines for the Creation of Effective Podcasts

Strand: Instructional Practices in Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Roger Von Holzen, Darla Runyon - Northwest Missouri State University

Abstract: The term “podcasts” has been heard all over the popular and academic airwaves for several years now. It often seems as though “everyone” is doing podcasts of classes, news broadcasts or just about anything else for others to hear. Unfortunately, much of what is placed out on the web for the general public or for instructional consumption leaves a very bad auditory and visual taste. Why do so many professors feel their lectures are so exciting that students will want to listen to their hour-long podcasts of course content? The reality is that most podcasts are never downloaded and played by students. This session will focus on a practical set of guidelines that will aid faculty members in the planning, creation and deployment of instructionally appropriate podcasts. We will look at the key components that help constitute effective, well-received podcasts, with special emphasis on the detailed examination of the process behind the planning and creation of podcasts. These components include appropriate content, preparation of that content, the design of the delivery, and the actually delivery process of an effective instructional podcast. Examples of poorly designed and delivered podcasts will be highlighted along with examples of effective use of the technology in order to assist participants in their review and evaluation of available podcasts.

Title: Creating an Online Video Archive for Videoconferences

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Scott Kasmann - MIT-E Network

Abstract: The MIT-E Network is now using a Codian IPVCR to record dual credit and upper level high school courses. Recorded events can be played back to a group via a videoconference or to individuals through multiple media formats (Windows Media Player, QuickTime, etc.) Our consortium is able to reduce missed class time for students involved in group events, students that are homebound, and for individuals who choose to access review sessions from their classes. Students and instructors are able to access the video archive through a secure, password protected website. One Missouri’s original I-TV consortiums, the MIT-E Network is an 18 member consortium of high school and higher education institutions. MIT-E members have been sharing resources and classes since 1992. Learn more about how your organization could benefit from an online archive of your videoconferences.

Title: Putting Teachers "Through the Paces": Training, Mentoring and Assessing Online Faculty

Strand: Distance Learning Support and Assessment

Presenter(s): Witt Salley, Heidi Skurat Harris - Ozarks Technical Community College

Abstract: New online instructors often mention the overwhelming nature of creating and facilitating their first online course. Administrators are also increasingly interested in evaluating online courses and/or instructors. Online Teaching and Learning at Ozarks Technical Community College has developed a three-part training and evaluation process that involves 1) a four-week, intensive Blackboard training course, 2) continuing contact and mentoring with the school's instructional designer, and 3) periodic formative reviews to encourage instructors to incorporate best practices in online teaching. In this presentation, we will outline our process and discuss options for creating online training, mentoring activities and evaluation materials.

Title: MU High School: Meeting the Changing Needs of Online Students

Strand: ABC’s of Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Beverly Fox, Jill Dourty - University of Missouri High School

Abstract: After a brief introduction to the Center for Distance & Independent Study and MU High School, this presentation will focus on the courses offered and on the evolution of content delivery from the correspondence model to online courses. We will highlight special course features such as interactive elements and briefly describe our initiative to offer semester-based courses using Moodle. MU High School has made a concentrated effort to increase the variety of instructor-student interactions as well as to seamlessly incorporate technology into the instruction and lesson content. We will share our concerns, challenges, struggles, and successes and allow time for the audience to share theirs.

Title: St. Louis Public Schools Virtual School

Strand: Instructional Practices in Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Jo Ann Reese, Kesha Chatman, Dana Bodewe, Chris Honse, Gwen Young, Barbara Criner, Amy Biasbas - St. Louis Public Schools Virtual School

Abstract: The St. Louis Public Schools Virtual School is a unique implementation of the virtual school program that combines the best of both learning environments. We combine a research-based online learning environment with focused face-to-face interaction. Our SLPS Virtual School provides a formal education for students in grades K-12. Students access courses through the Internet and web-based applications in combination with textbooks, workbooks and other instructional materials. The SLPS Virtual School provides face-to-face interaction and support for students and parents in our Virtual School Learning Centers.

Title: Social Networking Tools Use in Distance Learning.

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter(s): Marcel Bechtoldt - University of Missouri- St. Louis

Abstract: One of the major disparities between a traditional on-campus learning experience and a distance learning experience is the lack of social interaction outside the normal teaching session. Sometimes students feel alienated by the learning from the distant modalities or processes. One way of enhancing social interaction with other students is the use or promotion of using online social networking tools. This presentation will explore the tools that may enhance the overall distance learning experience, improve communication, as well as student peer-to-peer social interaction and learning.

Title: MCGE - Sharing Foreign Language Courses

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Leo Hirner, Deanna Poudel - Metropolitan Community College - Kansas City

Abstract: The Missouri Consortium for Global Education (MCGE) has promoted a program for the sharing of foreign language courses between Missouri Community Colleges. This session will examine the coordination and training provided by MCGE and the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA), some of the courses shared by MCGE institutions (Mandarin, Arabic, and more), and the future of this program.

Title: “Fair Use?" - Copyright Law in Education

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Bruce Troyke - Missouri Virtual School

Abstract: Copyright Law protects the rights of the creator of original works. There is an exemption from copyright for educational use; however, this exemption is not absolute. This session will explain what factors determine what constitutes a fair use and will explain the case law and legislation that guide the fair use of copyrighted materials. Participants will gain a sense of what materials can be used in an online class as "fair use" and what materials need authorized permission.

Title: Online Top Gear - The Super Car of Online Courses

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Greg Dlabach - American Intercontinental University

Abstract: For motor heads that would love to increase the horsepower of their online courses, this session will present best practices in using live interactive technologies in online courses. Attendees will learn how to effectively build online learning communities and infuse live sessions with meaningful experiences and web content that will enhance student retention and success.

Title: Author Visits with New Links to New Learning

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Rebecca Morrison - Cooperating School Districts

Abstract: Cooperating School Districts' New Links to New Learning has three “in house” authors: Carolyn Lesser, Bill Dallas Lewis, and Patricia McKissack [check out her blog with students at www.authorvisit.wordpress.com]. These authors work with students via videoconferencing either in single sessions or in a three-part model. The three-part model allows the author to discuss curriculum with the teacher in one session while the other sessions engage the students in an introduction and a follow-up. Several guest authors have been involved in the program this past year including Pulitzer Prize winner Edward P. Jones, New York Times bestseller Susan Vreeland, and Barri Bumgarner. Others scheduled to visit include Jody Feldman, Lauren Myracle, Amy Sklanksy, and Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw. Students of all ages and from all over the country have benefited from these highly interactive sessions. This presentation will discuss how CSD partners with the authors and will show video clips of the authors interacting with students. The “ASK” model (Author, Specialist, Knowledge) started by Berrien County in Michigan will be shared.

Title: RoundTrips: Interactive Video Conferencing from Anywhere

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Jim Sturm, Tim Gore - RoundTrips

Abstract: The project directors of RoundTrips, two teachers from the School District of Clayton, describe the wide curricular variety of their videoconferencing programs and show how their portable satellite transmitter and videoconferencing/webcasting studio helps students explore a wide range of topics as they connect live to people and places across the country. Distance education, in a live format, has usually been regulated to an inside wired environment. However, we know that much of what occurs of interest for students and teachers in real time happens where wires don’t exist. Because of satellite technology, wires no longer limit us. The goal of RoundTrips is to extend classroom curriculum for students and teachers to places they could not normally go and on that journey to create an interactive environment coupled with sound educational pedagogy. The presentation will include both demonstration and discussion. Demonstrations will focus on how teachers with video conferencing equipment or web access can take advantage of the wide range of RoundTrips adventures. Examples of these adventures from science to social studies and arts to literature can be found on the project’s website at http://www.roundtrips.org. Featured discussion topics will focus on the educational value, creative use, and best practices of video conferencing. Brainstorming and discussion will also consider participants’ interest in curricular applications utilizing the satellite transmitter and other non-satellite RoundTrips offerings.

Title: Learning and Sharing with Web 2.0

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter(s): Chris Wherley - Williamsville CUSD #15

Abstract: Web 2.0 is a term describing the trend in the use of World Wide Web technology and web design that aims to enhance creativity, information sharing, and, most notably, collaboration among users. Web 2.0 technologies such as blogs, wikis, Google apps, audio and video conferencing, and more will be explained. Discussion of how these tools can be used in the K-12 and higher education settings will be included.

Title: Don't reinvent the wheel: How to create reusable content for online curriculum

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Deanna Hunsaker, Joe Vincent, Katie Clay - A.T. Still University - School of Health Management

Abstract: In the online education arena, technology that drives delivery is quickly outpacing many schools’ (and their staffs’) ability to keep up.

Not having the resources to update, many institutions have simply given up and have settled for systems that are unwieldy, outdated, or ill-suited for their needs. By learning to create a “reusable repository” of learning objects (learning modules, outcome-based assessments) that can be indexed, searched, and reused, schools and organizations can effectively position themselves to immediately harness the power of any new system. The reusable repository, while simple and straightforward to create, supplies the information any LMS/CMS would need, from something as simple as a website or as complex as a Second Life environment.

Title: Open Source Alternatives: Same Bang, Less Buck

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter(s): Deanna Hunsaker, Joe Vincent, Katie Clay - A.T. Still University - School of Health Management

Abstract: Management systems are expensive, and many of the best new software releases (i.e. IE7, Microsoft Vista) incorporate solutions developed in an open source environment. Open source tools are offering increasingly stable, complete, and competitive solutions for online content delivery, and online education is no exception. This presentation will focus on Moodle, an open source project that rivals pay-for-play services like WebCT and eCollege in terms of usability and compatibility. Moodle, like many open source alternatives, offers all the tools designers and instructors expect and even delivers better results in cross-platform areas, such as integration with CampusVue and other information management systems.

Title: Let's Chat! Using Chat Rooms to Promote Collaboration and Learning

Strand: Instructional Practices in Distance Learning

Presenter(s): Roberta Ross-Fisher - Western Governors University

Abstract: Communication through technology is becoming more and more common in our society and in our schools, both at the collegiate and the K-12 levels. Chat rooms can offer many opportunities for learners to collaborate in “real time” conversations but care must be taken to facilitate them for optimal success. This session will offer very practical suggestions for helping K-12 teachers and higher education faculty make the very most of chat rooms in their teaching situation.

Title: Can't Make It, Try an Online Orientation

Strand: Distance Learning Support and Assessment

Presenter(s): Diana Garland - Missouri State University

Abstract: Struggling with a growing population of international students who arrive at the University after the date of the required student orientation, Missouri State initiated an online orientation. This orientation provides the material in a condensed easy to understand fashion that students can complete at their own pace using Blackboard. Unit quizzes provide an assessment of the student’s attention to the detail of the information provided.

Title: Digital Learning Objects on the Open Web

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Wesley Fryer - AT&T

Abstract: The Internet's world-wide web offers unprecedented access, publication, and collaboration opportunities for connected digital learners. In this session participants will explore the dynamic world of digital learning objects, paying particular attention to the ways learning objects can be effectively integrated into existing course curriculum and student assignments for both K-12 and higher education learners. We will also explore the educational ethic of publishing content on the open web, which contrasts sharply with traditional notions of limiting access to content and ideas by sharing on a closed web via login-restricted learning management systems like BlackBoard, WebCT, or Moodle. Creative Commons licensing is playing an important role in the continued evolution of the digital learning object landscape, and a case will be presented for encouraging learners at all levels to both utilize as well as contribute to learning object collections shared under permissive Creative Commons licenses.

Title: Digital Storytelling with VoiceThread

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter(s): Wesley Fryer - AT&T

Abstract: One of the best ways to enhance student learning, boost student achievement, and improve student engagement is to incorporate digital storytelling as an instructional strategy. Students can demonstrate their knowledge of content, develop higher order thinking skills, improve their digital literacy skills, and harness the power of visual literacy in digital storytelling projects. VoiceThread (www.voicethread.com) is a web-based, interactive digital storytelling environment FREE for educators that is being used effectively around the world to safely publish student work on the global stage of the Internet, as well as PRIVATELY share student work with families as well as partner classrooms located in other states or countries. Come learn how to get started with digital storytelling and VoiceThread in your classroom!

Title: Missouri Virtual Instruction Program—First Year Status Report

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter(s): Roger Von Holzen, Darla Runyon - Northwest Missouri State University

Abstract: This session will provide a detailed analysis of the launch of the Missouri Virtual Instruction Program and how it has evolved over its first year of existence.  Enrollment figures, student segmentation data, and a behind the scene look at the student information system will be presented.  Changes, additions (Middle School) and challenges to the program will also be discussed.

Title: Moodle 101

Strand: Interactive Video Conferencing & Online

Presenter: Savitri Wilder - University of Central Missouri

Abstract: Moodle is a free open source course management system designed using sound pedagogical principles to help educators create effective online learning communities. This session will demonstrate how to navigate through Moodle and will highlight many of Moodle’s features. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops, create accounts, and work in the Moodle environment during this session.

Title: Living a year with the iPhone

Strand: ABC’s of Distance Learning

Presenter: Mike Jeffries – University of Central Missouri

Abstract: The Apple iPhone’s functions include those of a camera phone, portable media player in addition to text messaging and visual voicemail. It offers Internet services including e-mail, web browsing, and Wi-Fi connectivity. After living a year with the iPhone, this presentation will focus on how mobility of information can impact daily life in the way one communicates, travels, and acquires information. The technology behind the iPhone and similar mobile devices will be discussed along with how these technologies are impacting education.

Title: Beyond the Virtual Fieldtrip and the Collaborative Project...KC3: A National Challenge

Strand: 21st Century Technologies

Presenter: Jane Zanetis - Tandberg

Abstract: The KC3 Project is a national project designed to empower students to direct their own learning. This standards based project seeks to tap into the creative nature of students as they look at their own communities with new eyes and explore ways to share their findings with others using videoconferencing and other technologies. In its first year, the KC3 students developed an informational program geared toward a specific audience educating them on their topic. Each project team used the CILC Program Posting Format as they developed their content program. Topics submitted by teams from across the U.S. included: Astronauts and Limestone; Lawrence County Indiana History; Texas Black Gold: Oil; Fire Ants: The Real Ant Bully; The Haunted Mansion by the Bay; The Underground Railroad and the Ohio River; Low Bridge: Clinton’s Big Ditch; Wind Power; Linear Relationships in the Texas State Capitol; William Joel Bryan and His Legacy; Hawaiian Food and Diet: Past and Present; The Origins and Culture of Hula Participants. This session will provide video clips of the winning teams’ virtual fieldtrips. This project is a clear demonstration of Constructivist pedagogy. The Project is in its first year and will expand to include elementary teams as well as teams outside the United States.

Title: Missouri Virtual School - Distance Education Any Way You Can Think Of!

Strand: Distance Learning Content Development

Presenter: Becky Baker - Missouri State University

Abstract: For the past ten years, the Missouri Virtual School (MVS) at Missouri State University (MSU) in Springfield, Missouri has provided high school courses in foreign language, English, history, mathematics, and science instruction to students throughout rural areas in Missouri as part of the Missouri State University's statewide public outreach mission. Pragmatic strategies for delivering curriculum through synchronous, asynchronous and blended formats have been utilized to enhance student learning. This presentation will discuss the growth of MVS and what has been learned since its inception.