Online Engagement and Assessment Strategies for GED® and HiSET® Learners

Session 5: 9:15am-10:15am (Saturday March 07, 2026)

Description

Engaging adult learners online requires intentional instructional design and meaningful use of assessment data. In this session, Greg Larson (adult education instructor at Los Angeles City College) and Karyn Ruiz (adult education instructor and Senior National Academic Specialist for Aztec Software) share proven strategies from their work as GED® and HiSET® preparation instructors. Participants will explore techniques for building engagement in online learning environments, including interactive instruction, formative assessments, and targeted feedback. The session highlights how digital assessment tools can be used to identify learning gaps, personalize instruction, and monitor learner progress. Emphasis will be placed on practical, classroom-ready approaches that strengthen teaching and learning while supporting persistence and academic success in adult education programs.

Presenters

Greg Larson

LA City College

Greg Larson is an instructor and GED coordinator at Los Angeles City College in its noncredit Adult Education Program. In his own words - "I view my role as an adult educator as one dedicated helping my students achieve their goals, to reach their full potential academically and vocationally, and to influence those around them."

Karyn Ruiz

Aztec Software

For nearly 20 years, Karyn Crowe Ruiz has worked in adult education teaching Concurrent High School Diploma, ESL, ABE, GED, and HSD classes, and serving as a WASC Coordinator and Data Analyst. Starting in 2021, Ms. Ruiz took on the role as the Senior National Academic Specialist for Aztec Software. She has delivered professional development statewide and nationally, holds multiple teaching and administrative credentials and degrees, and serves as CCAE Central Section President (2024–2026).

Type of Presentation

Demonstration (60 Minutes)

Audience

Teachers
Administrators

Program Strands

Adult Basic Education
Adult Secondary Education

Category Strands

Online Engagement and Assessment