Now in its 20th year, the 2020 Online Teaching Conference (OTC) shifted online and had a record-breaking turnout of more than 11,000 attendees. Held June 17-19, OTC is one of the largest conferences of its kind. It is focused on curriculum, pedagogy and technology providing educators a unique opportunity to share best practices, further their professional development and network with colleagues at institutions across the state, nation and internationally.
“When we realized that a face-to-face conference would not be possible, we converted to an online format, condensing more than 70 sessions and coordinating the technical aspects of delivering a virtual event,” said Tiffiny Hickey, Online Teaching Conference manager.
OTC was made possible by TechConnect Zoom, a secure, web-based meeting tool providing high-quality audio and video communications. TechConnect Cloud services enabled a live-streamed overflow room option for attendees viewing the conference outside of the Zoom application. Based at Palomar College, TechConnect provides a coordinated platform of technology products, services, trainings and support to students, faculty and staff at no cost.
“With the rapid transition to remote learning, our community colleges need greater support and resources,” said Director of TechConnect Rico Bianchi. “The OTC offers a space where we can come together to learn and support each other during this critical period of rapid change. TechConnect is committed to providing the support and resources necessary to help advance the California Community Colleges and promote student success.”
Designed for both seasoned and new online teaching professionals, the conference included sessions about equity, accessibility, avoiding common online instruction mistakes and more. The keynote, “Planning for the Unexpected: Instruction Front and Center,” featured panelists from four community colleges sharing successful preparation stories and strategies about their institution’s online transition due to COVID-19. The panelists shared a disaster planning guide aimed at assisting colleges in preparing for a variety of disasters.
“Attendees were happy that OTC was offered online this year making it possible to still participate,” said Hickey.
View session archives and additional materials from the 2020 Online Teaching Conference now on the OTC website.
