Welcome to the Spring 2025 Webinar Series: Social Presence in an AI-Driven Educational Landscape: Strengthening Human Connection hosted by the Social Presence Literacy Lab (SPL2) in collaboration with CIRT. This dynamic series will explore how educators can foster meaningful human connections in online learning while navigating modern challenges and innovations.
Series Overview:
- Foundations of Social Presence in the Age of AI: A pre-recorded session to set the stage.
- Monthly Webinars: Interactive sessions from February through April, featuring actionable strategies and discussions.
- Closing Video in May: A practical framework for ensuring AI supports human-centered teaching.
January Pre-Recorded Video: Click Here-Social Presence in the Age of AI: Strengthening Human Connection
Kick off the Spring 2025 Webinar Series with a pre-recorded session that lays the groundwork for our exploration of social presence in the age of AI. This 12-minute video introduces foundational theories, key concepts, and the Social Presence Literacy Framework, emphasizing the importance of fostering authentic human connections in an increasingly digital and AI-enhanced educational landscape. This session sets the tone for the months ahead, equipping educators with the knowledge and inspiration to prioritize relational teaching in their practice.
February 20 @ 10 am Arizona: AI as a Tool for Connection: Personalizing Interactions in Online Teaching
Discover strategies for using AI to enhance personalization in online teaching while maintaining authentic human relationships. This session provides practical approaches to leveraging AI tools in ways that deepen connection, foster engagement, and support meaningful learning experiences.
Watch HERE
March 20 @ 10 am Arizona: Cultivating Empathy in an AI-Enhanced Classroom
Explore methods for fostering empathy and relational engagement in a digital classroom. This webinar offers actionable strategies to build trust, support emotional connections, and create a compassionate learning environment that transcends technology.
Register here: https://gcu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lAjgRaLGQtqJnhMWF-4k0g
April 10 @ 10 am Arizona: Human-Centered Teaching in an AI-Driven World
Examine frameworks for balancing technology and social presence to maintain student motivation and engagement. This session focuses on sustaining relational dynamics while utilizing AI as a supportive tool for dynamic and connected online learning experiences.
Register here: https://gcu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_x53J4A-NTcK4vDowTqK2sg
May Pre-Recorded Video: Decision-Making for AI Integration: A Framework for Human Connection
Conclude the series with a pre-recorded video presenting a practical, five-step framework for integrating AI tools in ways that complement teaching while preserving critical relational elements in education.
What to Expect:
- Engaging Discussions: Following each video and webinar, join thought-provoking discussions on the Discussion Tab of the SPL2 Website (Visit Here). Led by SPL2 Fellows, these discussions provide a collaborative space to explore deeper into the topics presented.
- Practical Strategies: Explore actionable ideas and techniques for enhancing social presence and building meaningful connections in your online courses.
- Collaborative Opportunities: Exchange ideas, share experiences, and connect with colleagues in an interactive online forum designed to foster professional growth and innovation.
For more information about the Social Presence Literacy Lab (SPL2), visit: https://cirt.gcu.edu/home/spl2
