Technology is changing rapidly and teachers themselves need help keeping pace. The Outreach and Technical Assistance Network (OTAN) hosted its annual conference last week, helping teachers enhance technology integration in their classrooms and grow their blended/distance learning programs. The Technology and Distance Learning Symposium, March 6–7 at the Charles A. Jones Career & Education Center in Sacramento, highlighted a variety of technology tools for the classroom, including:
- Open education resources
- Digital badges and micro-credentialing
- Mobile devices, iPads, Chromebooks, and more
- Online and blended instruction delivery models
- Moodle learning management system
- Presentation tools for the classroom
- Web-based activities
- Online resources for adult education
Presentations also explained how adult education programs can be more effective and operate more efficiently.
OTAN is one of three leadership projects for adult education in California. It trains adult educators to effectively integrate technology in the classroom. It also provides technical support for the California Department of Education (CDE) and adult education agencies throughout California, including the development and maintenance of the California Adult Education Online Application and Reporting website.
OTAN offers both online and face-to-face workshops for adult educators and staff across the state. Funded through CDE, OTAN’s workshops and course materials are provided at no cost to California adult education programs, educators, and staff. The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) provides fiscal oversight for OTAN.