2025 Sessions:
This summer, the College of Education is proud to present virtual professional development (PD) sessions to Arkansas teachers via Zoom. TWO HOURS of Arkansas PD credit approved by DESE/ADE will be offered for each session unless otherwise indicated. Please scroll through this page for session and presenter information.
These sessions are NO COST! Space is limited, but session recordings will be available at a later date.
Arkansas PD credit will not be awarded for those who cannot attend in person via ZOOM. Recordings of the sessions might be available but viewing will not result in PD credit. Modifications will be made for persons with disabilities. Please contact Ashley Cox at acox22@uca.edu prior to the workshop for accommodations.
If you have any questions, please contact us at tlc@uca.edu. For technical issues, please contact the TLC at tlc@uca.edu or the Zoom Help Center.
Power Up Your Classroom with Brisk: Using Brisk to Create, Align, and Assess!
July 17th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Presented by: Dr. Michelle Buchanan (UCA – Department of Teaching & Learning)
Zoom Registration Link: https://uca-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/3TFy1ZLERXuilBdNQGBNjA
Discover how Brisk transforms lesson planning, feedback, and differentiation! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to create aligned slide decks, give instant rubric-based feedback, adjust reading levels, and design quizzes from YouTube videos. Walk away with ready-to-use tools and resources to boost engagement, personalize instruction, and save time in your classroom!
Show What You Know: Digital Portfolios for Student Reflection
July 22nd, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Presented by: Ms. Noël Gieringer (UCA – Department of Teaching & Learning)
Zoom Registration Link: https://uca-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/JmqO0vOtQQCxzLM9q168nQ
Identify strategies for updating and streamlining the portfolio-creation process using a variety of technology tools.
Create an action plan for integrating or updating portfolio-based assessments in their own programs (K-12).
Explore how digital portfolios support student reflection and growth by fostering self-assessment, goal-setting, and ownership of learning.
Global Educators for a Sustainable Future: Panel Discussion on Study Abroad Experiences Through Photo Journals
July 22nd, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Presented by: Dr. Erin Shaw (UCA – Department of Leadership Studies) and Dr. Allison Freed (UCA – Department of Teaching & Learning)
Zoom Registration Link: https://uca-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/G3WCVTqXTbO26P7_kdMAyQ
Participants will explore and create with different AI tools to simplify planning for differentiation with UDL.
Planning for Inclusivity: SMARTER Instructional Cycle
July 24th, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Presented by: Dr. Patty A. Kohler (UCA – Retired) & Dr. Renee Calhoon (UCA – Department of Elementary, Literacy, and Special Education)
Zoom Registration Link: https://uca-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/Edho1PeZTmyU4oCujn04PQ
The SMARTER Instructional Cycle is comprised of seven steps, that when followed, help educators focus and teach that which is most critical for all learners. When the process is followed, educators can effectively plan direct, explicit, informed instruction in terms of the selection of the critical content that must be learned, the evidence-based practices used to teach that content, and how assessment will be conducted to determine proficiency in learning that content, thus increasing student achievement.
Educate. Radiate. Elevate. Addressing Mental Health Issues with Children’s Literature
July 24th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Presented by: Dr. Odunola Oyeniyi (Department of Leadership Studies) & Dr. Shoudong Feng (Department of Elementary, Literacy, and Special Education)
Zoom Registration Link: https://uca-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/3OwZN7bbRjij57W2HsGGAg
This session will equip educators with the tools, strategies, and confidence to use children’s literature as a powerful medium to address and support mental health awareness and emotional well-being among students.
Let’s Chat About Books
July 31st, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Presented by: Dr. Erin Shaw (Department of Leadership Studies), Dr. Jeff Whittingham (Department of Leadership Studies), & Dr. Amy Thompson (Department of Elementary, Literacy, and Special Education)
Zoom Registration Link: https://uca-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/LkYeRGUcRFaRMlv0I2uVxQ
Discovery: Participants will identify at least 3-5 new, high-quality books across age ranges (children’s, middle level, and YA) that they can explore for potential classroom use. Selection Criteria: Participants will recognize key literary and educational elements that professors use to evaluate quality literature, helping them develop their own criteria for future book selection. Application Ideas: Participants will gather practical suggestions for how featured books might be integrated into classroom instruction, regardless of whether they’ve read the specific titles.