"Revitalizing Learning" explores innovative strategies to enhance student engagement in asynchronous online classes by sharing the use of effective asynchronous tools for building inclusive virtual learning communities while leveraging AI technology. Applied learning experiences and non-traditional discussion prompts, while addressing the challenge of maintaining academic integrity amidst AI are shared.

Revitalizing Learning: How Innovative Design and AI Spark Student Engagement in Asynchronous Classes!

In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, the challenge of maintaining student engagement in asynchronous online learning environments has become increasingly prominent. This session shares tested techniques for building online learning communities, creative approaches to using low tech and AI learning tools, plus the ethical use of AI for student outcomes and faculty grading, while enhancing the learning experience.

The session begins with an interactive poll to gauge the audience's current experiences and challenges with asynchronous learning. Participants will be asked to share their primary concerns regarding student engagement in online environments, setting the stage for a collaborative exploration of solutions. This initial engagement will not only provide valuable insights but also demonstrate the power of interactive polling as a tool for fostering participation and idea generation.

Building Online Learning Communities

One of the key themes of this session is the creation of vibrant online learning communities. We will delve into strategies that transform virtual classrooms from isolated learning spaces into interactive hubs of collaboration and engagement. The "Muddiest Point" technique will be introduced as an effective method for promoting peer-to-peer learning. Attendees will participate in a live demonstration of this technique, experiencing firsthand how it can be implemented in their own courses. Additionally, we will share nonstandard discussion board prompts that move beyond traditional question-and-answer formats. These innovative approaches encourage deeper reflection, critical thinking, and meaningful interactions among students. Participants will engage in a brainstorming activity to generate creative prompts tailored to their specific disciplines, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that mirrors the engagement we aim to create in asynchronous classes.

Asynchronous Learning Tools

The session will also showcase a variety of applied learning experiences that enhance student engagement in asynchronous settings. We will focus on the effective use of reflective practices and the development of professional skills through carefully crafted online content. An interactive component will involve participants in creating a sample reflective assignment using a provided template. This hands-on experience will demonstrate how to structure reflective activities that promote critical thinking and self-assessment while maintaining engagement in an asynchronous format.

AI Integration and Ethical Considerations

As AI continues to reshape the educational landscape, this session will address both the opportunities and challenges it presents in asynchronous learning environments. We will explore how AI can be managed to support ethical AI use and enhance the learning experience. The session will introduce strategies for designing assessments and rubrics that are robust against AI-generated content, ensuring that student work remains authentic and meaningful. A live demonstration of an AI-resistant rubric design will be conducted, allowing attendees to actively participate in the process and gain practical insights they can apply in their own courses.

Low-Tech Engagement Activities

Recognizing that not all engagement strategies require advanced technology, the session will also cover low-tech activities that can significantly boost student participation and interaction in asynchronous settings. Here we will share some low tech approaches that result in the feel of high tech, by using AI to create an interactive we call "Raise Your Hand. " This feature will be utilized throughout this segment to encourage real-time questions and discussions about AI integration, addressing concerns and sharing best practices among participants. A critical aspect of revitalizing asynchronous learning is ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities or technological access, can fully participate and engage with the course content.

Practical Implementation and Outcomes

Throughout the session, emphasis will be placed on sharing practical strategies and realistic outcomes. Attendees will leave with a toolkit of innovative ideas, templates, and resources they can immediately apply to their asynchronous courses. A final show of hands will gauge participants' confidence in implementing the discussed strategies to solve some of the problems they identified in the initial poll and identify areas where further support or resources may be needed.

This session promises to be a transformative experience for educators seeking to revitalize asynchronous learning through low tech and AI tools that support innovative design and engagement strategies. We will share insights, practical demonstrations, and collaborative learning opportunities. Join us to explore the future of online education and learn how to spark student engagement in ways that were previously thought impossible in asynchronous settings.