Schedule

The schedule for TDLS is presented on this page. Use the filter buttons below to sort sessions by day, audience, strands, etc. For sessions you wish to attend, click the “Star” () to add the session to “My TDLS” which allows you at any time to review your customized schedule. Once a presentation begins, click the “Join now!” button. After the session, return to the session and choose the “Evaluation” link to provide our presenters with feedback on their presentations.

Schedule Icons


Friday Sessions

Breakfast   (Friday 7:30am-8:30am)

Welcome & Keynote   (Friday 8:45am-10:15am)

Joyful and Resilient Teaching for Adult Learners
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Roni Habib
In this interactive and energizing session, explore how to strengthen social and emotional intelligence—personal and learner—to create learning environments where adults feel respected, engaged, and empowered. Gain practical tools to bring more joy, connection, and meaning into teaching while supporting learner persistence, confidence, and growth. A highly interactive, experiential session—expect reflection, connection, and moments of fun that model what effective adult learning can feel like.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: EEA, OEA, SSS)

Session 1   (Friday 10:30am-12:00pm)

Leveraging Tech Partnerships to Advance Digital Equity in Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Dr. Adrienne Ann Mullen (w/ Karyn Ruiz)
This session highlights how strategic partnerships with educational technology providers, including Aztec Software, support equity-focused outcomes by reducing opportunity gaps and strengthening learner engagement. Participants will explore how aligned digital tools and instructional practices can expand access and improve learning experiences across adult education pathways.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, CTE, WFP • CAT: EEA)
Teach Students to Use Technology; Make Their Lives Easier
Demonstration (90 minute)
Johanna Gleason (w/ Amanda Simons)
Many newcomers to the United States encounter technology for the first time when they arrive here, and therefore, are at a huge disadvantage in terms of navigating life in their new environment. Many of these students are reluctant to learn how to use technology. This presentation gives ideas for inspiring low-literacy English language learners to learn to use technology so that they can fully participate in society here.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, AWD, ESL, WFP • CAT: EEA, DLF, SSS)
Write with AI oh mAI!
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Francisco Pinedo Jr.
Participants will learn how to use AI as a tool for the writing process for students. Examples of how AI is used to aid the writing process will be shown. Participants are encouraged to have an AI account (Chat GPT, Gemini, Claude,etc) to use during the Follow-along workshop. Participants are also encouraged to bring student writing samples to facilitate the follow-along activities.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
NotebookLM in Action: Curate, Create, and Podcast with AI YOU Control
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Dana Thompson
Adult educators are overwhelmed by AI tools that pull from the whole web, making accuracy and relevance uncertain. NotebookLM offers a solution by grounding AI responses in your own materials—lesson plans, curriculum, program documents, or standards. With features like auto-generated summaries and podcasts, it provides a practical, trustworthy way to support instruction and planning while preserving context and educator voice.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
Oh, What a Gem You Are: Exploring Google Gemini for Educators
Demonstration (90 minute)
Farzana Cassim
This session provides an overview of Google Gemini, focusing on what the tool can do today. Through live demonstrations, participants will explore Gemini’s multimodal capabilities, including working with text and images, to better understand how it supports thinking, communication, and access to information. The session emphasizes realistic use cases, current limitations, and appropriate use alongside human judgment.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE)
The Power of Play and Connection in Adult Learning
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Roni Habib
Adults learn best when they feel safe, respected, connected, and engaged—and play is a powerful, often underutilized tool for making that happen. In this session, explore how play, connection, and joy can be intentionally and appropriately integrated into adult learning environments to increase engagement, trust, collaboration, and retention. Learn the research-backed reasons why playful, relational learning experiences improve adult motivation and willingness to take intellectual risks
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: EEA, OEA, SSS)

Lunch   (Friday 12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 2   (Friday 1:00pm-2:00pm)

Click, Tap, Learn: 7 Keys to Accessible, Student-Centered Websites
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Unlock the secrets to creating adult education websites that work for everyone! This session reveals seven critical design strategies—intuitive navigation, mobile responsiveness, accessibility, second language support, and more—using wvoc.net as a live model. Learn how these principles boost enrollment, enhance student satisfaction, and deliver measurable impact.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, OEA)
Fontana Adult School Ready: Your Learning & Digital Journey Begins
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Rosa Cauble (w/ Maria Camacho)
Empower your students with the digital skills they need to thrive! Fontana Adult School builds essential technology competencies for success through their Digital Literacy Orientation and computer basics. Students gain hands-on experience with Office 365, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and email to participate effectively in classes. This orientation fosters confidence, supports digital learning, and prepares learners to use technology for academic success and workplace readiness.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ESL, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF)
Human First: Teaching SEL to Adult Learners in the Age of AI
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Technology and AI are transforming education—but adult learners still need strong social-emotional skills to thrive. This session explores practical strategies for teaching SEL in digital learning environments, empowering adult learners to develop self-awareness, resilience, collaboration, and critical thinking in a tech-driven world.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Challenges in Adult Education: Recruitment, Remote Testing and Retention
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Maria Elena Gomez-Lecaro (w/ Twyla Eva)
Jefferson Adult Online is in its third year. Our primary challenges are the "Three Rs": Recruitment, Remote Testing, and Retention. This presentation will examine the obstacles we have encountered in addressing these critical areas.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ESL, PAA, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLM, OEA)
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)

Session 3   (Friday 2:15pm-3:45pm)

Designing for Equity: A Course for Accessible Digital Learning in Adult Ed
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Penny Pearson (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Discover practical ways to make adult education digital content accessible and equitable. Based on the Accessibility Training for AE Teachers course, this session provides an overview of the course contents, including UDL, WCAG 2.2, and Section 508. The course allows a self-paced approach to learning with instruction on how to apply alt text, headings, color contrast, captions, and other tools. Leave with accessibility resources so every learner can access and succeed, online and in class.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE)
An Introduction into TOPSpro Enterprise (TE) Portals
Demonstration (90 minute)
Adrian Boggess
TOPSpro Enterprise Portals are easy-to-use web-based applications designed for different level of users, from administrators to teachers to students and other roles in between. The intuitive interface provides agency, class, and student level data with customizable views and reports. TE Portals use the same database as TE, which makes the application work seamlessly with TOPSpro Enterprise (TE), CASAS eTests and TE Classmate.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, OEA, PAC)
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)

Session 4   (Friday 4:00pm-5:00pm)

From Pilot to Practice: Porterville Adult School’s Northstar Journey
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Jeff Bochat (w/ Valerie Craig)
Today we will be exploring the use of Northstar Digital Literacy with adult learners. Adult learners above the age of 30 need this program, and what is offered to progress through our other systems that are in place at Porterville Adult School.
(AUD: ADM, TEA • PGM: AWD, ABE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ASE, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
Sustaining Digital Transformation Through DLAC
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Nada (Neda) Anasseri
Join DLAC leads and participants to explore how a two-year digital leadership pathway can transform your adult education program. Panelists will share successes, challenges, and strategies for aligning technology integration with continuous improvement, equity, and leadership culture. Attendees will gain actionable insights and drive to apply for the next cohort (2026-2028).
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)
From TikTok to Teaching: Microlearning for Adult Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Alayna Effinger
Discover how microlearning and short-form content can boost engagement and retention for adult learners. This session explores mobile-first strategies, TikTok-style mini lessons, and AI tools to quickly create bite-size instruction for ESL, ABE/HSE, and CTE classes. Walk away with ready-to-use templates and practical workflows you can implement immediately.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)

Saturday Sessions

Breakfast   (Saturday 8:00am-9:00am)

Session 5   (Saturday 9:15am-10:15am)

From Principles to Practice: Using the Digital Learning Guidance
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Joey Lehrman (w/ Anthony Burik)
An interactive introduction to OTAN’s 2026 California Adult Education Digital Learning Guidance, highlighting practical ways programs can use it to guide professional learning, program design, and accessible digital instruction. The session also previews a 10-week facilitated cohort designed to bring the DLG into practice. Register for the upcoming cohort at https://bit.ly/DLG_Course
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)
Crafting Narratives: Gemini Storybook for Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Susan Gaer
Unlock a powerful new tool for adult learning. This session demonstrates how the Gemini Storybook feature transforms complex topics, historical events, technical concepts, or professional scenarios into engaging, visually rich, and fully narrated 10-page storybooks. Learn to generate personalized, level-appropriate, and shareable content for literacy, language, and vocational training, making abstract ideas concrete and memorable.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Exploring AR, VR, and 3D Learning Tools Across Programs in Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Farzana Cassim
This session invites educators to explore emerging technologies through a guided tech playground featuring AR, VR headsets, ClassVR, and zSpace 3D tools. Designed for ESL, Academic, and CTE programs, participants will examine how these tools support language development, academic learning, and hands-on career training. The focus is on practical classroom applications and informed use rather than novelty.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE)

Session 6   (Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm)

Integrating Technology to Support Beginning Literacy in Adult ESL
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Cristiane Galvao
Adult learners need opportunities to develop English and digital skills at the same time. When used together in class, digital tools and print-based activities create a balanced approach that supports language development and digital literacy for ESL beginning literacy students.This online session will explore how ESL educators can integrate technology to their lessons. Participants will follow-along a sequence from teacher-led instruction to guided practice and independent learner practice.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ESL, WFP • CAT: EEA, DLE, OEA)
Empowering Adult Learners with the Triple E Framework Learn, Engage, Extend
Demonstration (90 minute)
Debbie Jensen (w/ Susan Coulter)
Explore how the Triple E Framework–Engage, Enhance, Extend–prioritizes learning first and technology second, to improve student success. Join this 90 minute session to discover Triple E backed strategies and a rubric designed for easy use. Participants will practice applying the rubric. They leave with tools to evaluate and elevate tech integration in their classrooms. Included is information about the self-paced Canvas course, how to sign up and earn Continuing Education Units.
(AUD: TEA • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Building Community: Working Together in Education with SharePoint
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Chris Vela Che
In today’s hybrid, remote, and in-person learning environments, strong professional communities and transparent collaboration are essential. This beginner-friendly session introduces educators and administrators to Microsoft SharePoint as a tool for creating inclusive, collaborative, and well-organized educational spaces. Participants will learn core functions such as creating team sites, sharing documents, posting updates, and personalizing pages.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF)
Tech Playground
Demonstration (90 minute)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)

Lunch   (Saturday 12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 7   (Saturday 1:00pm-2:00pm)

Water & Watts & Words - Oh My!
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Looking for eco-friendlier ways to use AI - Learn how to craft AI prompts that get the answers you need without the extra energy drain. This session teaches “eco-friendlier prompting,” so educators and students can work smarter, greener, and faster while using AI responsibly.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Power Up Your Teaching with OTAN’s Free Canvas Courses
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Miranda Currie (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Explore OTAN’s free Canvas courses available through Canvas Commons for all adult education programs. Learn how to copy and personalize courses for your own blended, hybrid, remote, or in-person classes. Participants will explore available courses, choose one to try, and learn how access a free OTAN Canvas account for their school.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)
Access to Impact:Equitable Learning for Adult and Justice-Impacted Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Digital access alone is not equity. This session explores how adult education and correctional education programs can intentionally design digital learning experiences that remove barriers, support adult learners with disabilities, and meet the unique needs of incarcerated youth. Participants will examine practical strategies grounded in UDL and adult learning theory to move from access to meaningful engagement.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, WFP • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)

Tech Slam   (Saturday 2:15pm-3:15pm)

Schedule

The schedule for TDLS is presented on this page. Use the filter buttons below to sort sessions by day, audience, strands, etc. For sessions you wish to attend, click the “Star” () to add the session to “My TDLS” which allows you at any time to review your customized schedule. Once a presentation begins, click the “Join now!” button. After the session, return to the session and choose the “Evaluation” link to provide our presenters with feedback on their presentations.

Show More

Schedule Icons


Friday Sessions

Breakfast  
(7:30am-8:30am)

Welcome & Keynote  
(8:45am-10:15am)

Joyful and Resilient Teaching for Adult Learners
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Roni Habib
In this interactive and energizing session, explore how to strengthen social and emotional intelligence—personal and learner—to create learning environments where adults feel respected, engaged, and empowered. Gain practical tools to bring more joy, connection, and meaning into teaching while supporting learner persistence, confidence, and growth. A highly interactive, experiential session—expect reflection, connection, and moments of fun that model what effective adult learning can feel like.

M.U.R. and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 1  
(10:30am-12:00pm)

Leveraging Tech Partnerships to Advance Digital Equity in Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Dr. Adrienne Ann Mullen (w/ Karyn Ruiz)
This session highlights how strategic partnerships with educational technology providers, including Aztec Software, support equity-focused outcomes by reducing opportunity gaps and strengthening learner engagement. Participants will explore how aligned digital tools and instructional practices can expand access and improve learning experiences across adult education pathways.

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Teach Students to Use Technology; Make Their Lives Easier
Demonstration (90 minute)
Johanna Gleason (w/ Amanda Simons)
Many newcomers to the United States encounter technology for the first time when they arrive here, and therefore, are at a huge disadvantage in terms of navigating life in their new environment. Many of these students are reluctant to learn how to use technology. This presentation gives ideas for inspiring low-literacy English language learners to learn to use technology so that they can fully participate in society here.

Room 4 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Write with AI oh mAI!
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Francisco Pinedo Jr.
Participants will learn how to use AI as a tool for the writing process for students. Examples of how AI is used to aid the writing process will be shown. Participants are encouraged to have an AI account (Chat GPT, Gemini, Claude,etc) to use during the Follow-along workshop. Participants are also encouraged to bring student writing samples to facilitate the follow-along activities.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
NotebookLM in Action: Curate, Create, and Podcast with AI YOU Control
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Dana Thompson
Adult educators are overwhelmed by AI tools that pull from the whole web, making accuracy and relevance uncertain. NotebookLM offers a solution by grounding AI responses in your own materials—lesson plans, curriculum, program documents, or standards. With features like auto-generated summaries and podcasts, it provides a practical, trustworthy way to support instruction and planning while preserving context and educator voice.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Oh, What a Gem You Are: Exploring Google Gemini for Educators
Demonstration (90 minute)
Farzana Cassim
This session provides an overview of Google Gemini, focusing on what the tool can do today. Through live demonstrations, participants will explore Gemini’s multimodal capabilities, including working with text and images, to better understand how it supports thinking, communication, and access to information. The session emphasizes realistic use cases, current limitations, and appropriate use alongside human judgment.

Room 9 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
The Power of Play and Connection in Adult Learning
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Roni Habib
Adults learn best when they feel safe, respected, connected, and engaged—and play is a powerful, often underutilized tool for making that happen. In this session, explore how play, connection, and joy can be intentionally and appropriately integrated into adult learning environments to increase engagement, trust, collaboration, and retention. Learn the research-backed reasons why playful, relational learning experiences improve adult motivation and willingness to take intellectual risks
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Lunch  
(12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 2  
(1:00pm-2:00pm)

Click, Tap, Learn: 7 Keys to Accessible, Student-Centered Websites
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Unlock the secrets to creating adult education websites that work for everyone! This session reveals seven critical design strategies—intuitive navigation, mobile responsiveness, accessibility, second language support, and more—using wvoc.net as a live model. Learn how these principles boost enrollment, enhance student satisfaction, and deliver measurable impact.

Room 4 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Fontana Adult School Ready: Your Learning & Digital Journey Begins
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Rosa Cauble (w/ Maria Camacho)
Empower your students with the digital skills they need to thrive! Fontana Adult School builds essential technology competencies for success through their Digital Literacy Orientation and computer basics. Students gain hands-on experience with Office 365, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and email to participate effectively in classes. This orientation fosters confidence, supports digital learning, and prepares learners to use technology for academic success and workplace readiness.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Human First: Teaching SEL to Adult Learners in the Age of AI
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Technology and AI are transforming education—but adult learners still need strong social-emotional skills to thrive. This session explores practical strategies for teaching SEL in digital learning environments, empowering adult learners to develop self-awareness, resilience, collaboration, and critical thinking in a tech-driven world.

Room 8 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Challenges in Adult Education: Recruitment, Remote Testing and Retention
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Maria Elena Gomez-Lecaro (w/ Twyla Eva)
Jefferson Adult Online is in its third year. Our primary challenges are the "Three Rs": Recruitment, Remote Testing, and Retention. This presentation will examine the obstacles we have encountered in addressing these critical areas.
Room 17
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 3  
(2:15pm-3:45pm)

Designing for Equity: A Course for Accessible Digital Learning in Adult Ed
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Penny Pearson (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Discover practical ways to make adult education digital content accessible and equitable. Based on the Accessibility Training for AE Teachers course, this session provides an overview of the course contents, including UDL, WCAG 2.2, and Section 508. The course allows a self-paced approach to learning with instruction on how to apply alt text, headings, color contrast, captions, and other tools. Leave with accessibility resources so every learner can access and succeed, online and in class.
Room 3
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
An Introduction into TOPSpro Enterprise (TE) Portals
Demonstration (90 minute)
Adrian Boggess
TOPSpro Enterprise Portals are easy-to-use web-based applications designed for different level of users, from administrators to teachers to students and other roles in between. The intuitive interface provides agency, class, and student level data with customizable views and reports. TE Portals use the same database as TE, which makes the application work seamlessly with TOPSpro Enterprise (TE), CASAS eTests and TE Classmate.

Room 8 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 4  
(4:00pm-5:00pm)

From Pilot to Practice: Porterville Adult School’s Northstar Journey
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Jeff Bochat (w/ Valerie Craig)
Today we will be exploring the use of Northstar Digital Literacy with adult learners. Adult learners above the age of 30 need this program, and what is offered to progress through our other systems that are in place at Porterville Adult School.

Room 1 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Sustaining Digital Transformation Through DLAC
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Nada (Neda) Anasseri
Join DLAC leads and participants to explore how a two-year digital leadership pathway can transform your adult education program. Panelists will share successes, challenges, and strategies for aligning technology integration with continuous improvement, equity, and leadership culture. Attendees will gain actionable insights and drive to apply for the next cohort (2026-2028).

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
From TikTok to Teaching: Microlearning for Adult Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Alayna Effinger
Discover how microlearning and short-form content can boost engagement and retention for adult learners. This session explores mobile-first strategies, TikTok-style mini lessons, and AI tools to quickly create bite-size instruction for ESL, ABE/HSE, and CTE classes. Walk away with ready-to-use templates and practical workflows you can implement immediately.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Saturday Sessions

Breakfast  
(8:00am-9:00am)

Session 5  
(9:15am-10:15am)

From Principles to Practice: Using the Digital Learning Guidance
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Joey Lehrman (w/ Anthony Burik)
An interactive introduction to OTAN’s 2026 California Adult Education Digital Learning Guidance, highlighting practical ways programs can use it to guide professional learning, program design, and accessible digital instruction. The session also previews a 10-week facilitated cohort designed to bring the DLG into practice. Register for the upcoming cohort at https://bit.ly/DLG_Course

Room 9 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Crafting Narratives: Gemini Storybook for Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Susan Gaer
Unlock a powerful new tool for adult learning. This session demonstrates how the Gemini Storybook feature transforms complex topics, historical events, technical concepts, or professional scenarios into engaging, visually rich, and fully narrated 10-page storybooks. Learn to generate personalized, level-appropriate, and shareable content for literacy, language, and vocational training, making abstract ideas concrete and memorable.
Room 17
In-person only
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Exploring AR, VR, and 3D Learning Tools Across Programs in Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Farzana Cassim
This session invites educators to explore emerging technologies through a guided tech playground featuring AR, VR headsets, ClassVR, and zSpace 3D tools. Designed for ESL, Academic, and CTE programs, participants will examine how these tools support language development, academic learning, and hands-on career training. The focus is on practical classroom applications and informed use rather than novelty.
Room 18
In-person only
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Session 6  
(10:30am-12:00pm)

Integrating Technology to Support Beginning Literacy in Adult ESL
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Cristiane Galvao
Adult learners need opportunities to develop English and digital skills at the same time. When used together in class, digital tools and print-based activities create a balanced approach that supports language development and digital literacy for ESL beginning literacy students.This online session will explore how ESL educators can integrate technology to their lessons. Participants will follow-along a sequence from teacher-led instruction to guided practice and independent learner practice.

Room 4 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

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Empowering Adult Learners with the Triple E Framework Learn, Engage, Extend
Demonstration (90 minute)
Debbie Jensen (w/ Susan Coulter)
Explore how the Triple E Framework–Engage, Enhance, Extend–prioritizes learning first and technology second, to improve student success. Join this 90 minute session to discover Triple E backed strategies and a rubric designed for easy use. Participants will practice applying the rubric. They leave with tools to evaluate and elevate tech integration in their classrooms. Included is information about the self-paced Canvas course, how to sign up and earn Continuing Education Units.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

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Building Community: Working Together in Education with SharePoint
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Chris Vela Che
In today’s hybrid, remote, and in-person learning environments, strong professional communities and transparent collaboration are essential. This beginner-friendly session introduces educators and administrators to Microsoft SharePoint as a tool for creating inclusive, collaborative, and well-organized educational spaces. Participants will learn core functions such as creating team sites, sharing documents, posting updates, and personalizing pages.
Room 8
In-person only
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Tech Playground
Demonstration (90 minute)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
Room 18
In-person only
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Lunch  
(12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 7  
(1:00pm-2:00pm)

Water & Watts & Words - Oh My!
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Looking for eco-friendlier ways to use AI - Learn how to craft AI prompts that get the answers you need without the extra energy drain. This session teaches “eco-friendlier prompting,” so educators and students can work smarter, greener, and faster while using AI responsibly.

Room 4 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
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Power Up Your Teaching with OTAN’s Free Canvas Courses
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Miranda Currie (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Explore OTAN’s free Canvas courses available through Canvas Commons for all adult education programs. Learn how to copy and personalize courses for your own blended, hybrid, remote, or in-person classes. Participants will explore available courses, choose one to try, and learn how access a free OTAN Canvas account for their school.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

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Access to Impact:Equitable Learning for Adult and Justice-Impacted Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Digital access alone is not equity. This session explores how adult education and correctional education programs can intentionally design digital learning experiences that remove barriers, support adult learners with disabilities, and meet the unique needs of incarcerated youth. Participants will examine practical strategies grounded in UDL and adult learning theory to move from access to meaningful engagement.

Room 8 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

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Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
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Tech Slam  
(2:15pm-3:15pm)