AI as a Classroom Ally: Making Digital Learning Interactive in Adult Ed

Session 6: 10:30am-12:00pm (Saturday March 07, 2026)

 

Description

Adult education embraces both cohort-based and individualized learning models. ESL programs often include group activities, while high school diploma and equivalency programs typically focus on individualized plans, making collaboration harder to implement. This session demonstrates how AI can transform those activities into dynamic virtual experiences—creating authentic discussions, modeling diverse perspectives, and providing personalized support to maintain rigor and accessibility. Participants will see examples of adapted assignments, learn strategies for inclusive virtual dialogues, and engage in a hands-on activity to redesign a group-based task for distance learning. Attendees will leave with practical frameworks, templates, and resources to enhance engagement, equity, and digital/AI literacy in online adult education.

Presenters

Lead Presenter Bio Photo

Jerry Yamashita

Elk Grove Adult and Community Education

Jerry is a digital learning strategist and doctoral candidate in Educational Technology with deep expertise in instructional design, adult learning, and digital inclusion. His work centers on designing equitable, human-centered systems that support adult learners in building digital skills for personal, academic, and workforce success. He is a regular presenter at local, state, and national conferences with a focus on Digital Inclusion, Distance & Digital Learning, and Technology Integration.

Lead Presenter Bio Photo

Angela Rodriguez

Elk Grove Adult and Community Education

TBD

Type of Presentation

Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)

Audience

  • Teachers
  • Administrators

Program Strands

  • Adult Basic Education
  • Adult Secondary Education

Category Strands

  • Ensuring Equity and Access
  • Designing Learning Experiences
  • Online Engagement and Assessment