Leading Online Pedagogy and Engagement

Welcome to the Leading Online Pedagogy and Engagement (L.O.P.E.) Conference, presented by the Department of Online Teaching and Learning at Grand Canyon University. The theme for the 2025 conference is “Empowering Education with Generative AI and Emerging Technologies.”

As education continues to evolve, generative AI and emerging technologies are reshaping the way we teach, learn, and engage with students. This year, we will explore how these advancements can enhance online pedagogy, create dynamic learning experiences, and equip educators with new tools for success.

AI has the power to personalize learning, streamline instructional design, and expand access to quality education—but how do we ensure these innovations are used ethically, equitably, and effectively? This conference will provide insight into the opportunities and challenges of AI in education, offering strategies to harness these tools for meaningful impact.

Join us as we reimagine the future of education, sharing best practices, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, and discovering ways technology can strengthen human connection, spark creativity, and support student success.

Together, let’s shape the next era of online learning—one where AI and emerging technologies empower educators, inspire students, and transform education for all.

Join Us May 8th & 9th! See you in…

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Welcome to the L.O.P.E Conference!

Conference Schedule

Register for each presentation individually from the Registration tab.

Day 1: Faculty Development, AI Literacy & Ethics, Faith and Character 

TimeSession 1Session 2Session 3
9:00 – 9:50 AM Workshop
AI as Your Teaching Assistant: Small Steps, Big Impact in Research Mentoring

Presenter Name:
Gwendolyn Dooley
Lecture
Understanding AI Skills Labs for Faculty and Doctoral Excellence

Presenter Names: Dr. Ken Sherman and Cat Lena
Demonstration
AI Literacy and Faculty Development: A Multi-Faceted Approach at The Citadel

Presenter Names: Andrew Zutell & Jessica Higdon
10:00 – 10:50 AMLecture
Supporting and Shaping a Microsoft 365 Copilot Program in Higher Education

Presenter Name: Moriah Kent
Workshop
Developing Leadership and Building Community with Faith and Character (includes AI)

Presenter Name: Dr. Michael Sivertson
Lightning Talks (Faith & Ethics)

– Using AI to Connect Scripture to Character Education

– Toward a Responsible Integration of AI and Emerging Technologies

Presenter Names: Cathryn Warren and Chayton Massic
11:00 – 11:50 AMLecture
Exploring the Ethical and Responsible Use of AI in the Online Classroom


Presenter Name:
Alexis Chontos
Roundtable
From Resistance to Partnership: Using GPTs to Enhance Engagement and Assessment in the Modern Classroom


Presenter Name:
Patty Lester
Lightning Talks (Faculty Tools & Pedagogy)

– HAL the Counselor: AI Literacy in Counseling

– Personalized Learning through AI for Discussion Forums & CATs


Presenter Names: Melissa Galica & Helen Teague
12:00-12:50 PMWorkshop

A.I. vs. AI: How I Built Smart Tools for Professors Without Losing Control

Presenter Name: Isac Artzi
Presentation
Balancing AI Benefits and Risks in Education (AIHRIAE + AIHRIAS)

Presenter Name:
Lynn Long
NO SESSION

Day 2: Student Success, Curriculum Innovation & AI-Enhanced Teaching

TimeSession 1Session 2Session 3
9:00 – 9:50 AM Lecture
Integrating AI and Constructive Development for Student Success

Presenter Name: William Rawe
Demonstration
Generative AI in Curriculum Design

Presenter Name Dr. Tetyana Escoto
Lecture
Beyond Algorithms: Evaluating the Pedagogical Impact of Existing AI Personalization

Presenter Name: Lessina Cline
10:00 – 10:50 AMWorkshop
From Trend to Transformation: How SoTL Drives Meaningful Teaching Innovation

Presenter Names: Morgan McNaughton and Dr. Jean Mandernach
Demonstration
Interactive, Personalized, and Fun: Using Quizizz for AI-Driven College Learning

Presenter Name: Dr. Lucia Jacobs
Demonstration
Enhancing Curriculum Design with Generative AI: Innovation in Higher Education

Presenter Name:
Ayad Saknee
11:00 – 11:50 AMDemonstration
AImpact: Revolutionizing College Learning with AI

Presenter Name: Kari Marks
Demonstration
Using Custom Chatbots for Simulated Learning Experiences

Presenter Name: Susan Purrington
NO SESSION