Enhancing Learning with an ESL OER Canvas Course

Session 5: 9:15am-10:15am (Saturday March 08, 2025)

 

Description

This presentation aims to introduce English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers to a free Learning Management System (LMS) that can streamline their teaching processes, enhance student engagement, and improve the overall educational experience for adult learners. By the end of this presentation, participants will: Understand the core features and benefits of using a free LMS to teach adult ESL students. Learn how to create customized learning experiences for adult learners using the LMS. Be able to integrate multimedia and interactive content to keep students engaged. Gain insights into how the LMS can track student progress, provide real-time feedback, and save time for teachers. Have a clear understanding of how the LMS supports flexible, self-paced learning and mobile accessibility, making it ideal for adult learners.

Presenters

Lead Presenter Bio Photo

Diana Vera-Alba

San Diego College of Continuing Education at SDCCD

Diana holds two Master’s degrees in Cross-Cultural Education and Leadership and is Creative Commons Certified. She serves as the ESL Assistant Program Chair and OER Liaison at SDCCD. As an OTAN SME, Diana has presented on topics including Creating Accessible documents, A11Y workshops, Liquid Syllabi, OERs & Attributions, Using Canvas LMS, and Integrating Online Tech Apps. Over the past 12 years, she has shared her expertise at OTAN webinars, TDLS, CATESOL, district committees, and DLAC.

Lead Presenter Bio Photo

Chris Vela Che

San Diego College of Continuing Education at SDCCD

Chris has over 15 years of experience as an adult ESL educator, specializing in teaching low-literacy to beginning-high English Language Learners. She is passionate about integrating digital technologies into her classroom to enhance students' learning experiences and digital skills. Since 2017, Chris has been a frequent presenter and facilitator for CATESOL and OTAN. Additionally, she has led technology-based training sessions at MiraCosta College and San Diego Community College District.

Type of Presentation

Demonstration (60 Minutes)

Audience

  • Teachers
  • Administrators
  • Support Staff (Transition Specialists, Counselors, Librarians, etc.)

Program Strands

  • English as a Second Language

Category Strands

  • Ensuring Equity and Access
  • Digital Learning Foundations
  • Designing Learning Experiences
  • Digital Learning Models
  • Online Engagement and Assessment