Our session addresses the use of emerging technologies in the classroom by compiling a range of technological innovations being used by faculty on SSU campus, and connects each one to the pedagogical aims of its proponent(s). An inexhaustive list of the technological innovations for this session include advocacy for the added benefits of engagement via on-line, synchronous classrooms, virtual polling tools, live-streaming of media, virtual whiteboards for brainstorming exercises, virtual guest speakers, and using GIS tools for conducting virtual excursions. This symposium has been prepared to engage faculty in the use of emerging technologies by introducing them, and then illustrating their use in the classroom setting for the audience. The symposium is intended to immerse attendees in the learning experience conveyed by these tools, and then reveal the means and benefits of their use. Attendees will learn the basics of using each of these tools and how they can be used to increase student engagement and learning in the classroom. All of these tools can be modified to be used in all classroom modalities: in-person, hyflex, bisynchronous, and asynchronous.

The Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at California State University, Northridge, is the professional development hub of the College of Education. In its quest to be a change agent in higher education, the CTL uses mixed reality simulation (MRS) as a tool to promote practical skills in unique and innovative applications across various disciplines. Scenarios that address mental health issues for social workers and psychologists, communication skills for nurses and journalists, trauma-informed classroom for teachers, and legal and ethical dilemmas for administrators and businesspersons are just a few of the examples that the CTL offers. SIMPACT can be matched to the specific needs of the participants, allows participants to learn skills to address the typical research to practice gap. SIMPACT sessions can be done through Zoom for faculty who teach in-person, hybrid, or online. With multiple awards including the CSU’s Innovation Award, SIMPACT clearly demonstrates best practice in the innovative use of technology. If you have “soft skills” that your students need to learn and practice, SIMPACT is for you. Come see SIMPACT in action, learn how you can affordably embed it in your classes, and get creative ideas for how to use it with your own students!

I am a California Community College Instructor that is always looking for ways to make higher education more accessible and more equitable for lower income students while not sacrificing the quality of instruction. My experience with using Zero Textbook Cost Open Educational Resources (ZTC OER) as well as feedback from my students on their experiences with ZTC OER have lead me to believe that there is a strong need for a newer, more modern type of ZTC OER that incorporates emerging technologies that are beneficial to enhancing the student learning process.

In an effort to overcome the many shortcoming with currently available ZTC OER, I used a mini-grant, to develop technologies as well as Computer Science, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (C-STEM) course specific proof of concepts. These proof of concepts were demonstrated to C-STEM instructors at the Professional Development Flex Day at Orange Coast College. Since then C-STEM instructors have been incorporating the proof of concepts which were relevant to their courses.