OTC hosting 2014 Innovation Showcase

Distance learning means just that  learning at a distance.

So, this years celebration of National Distance Learning Week Nov. 10-14, will be offered with a twist. The entire showcase will be available online for the first time for anyone to see anywhere in world.

OTC will host the 2014 Innovation Showcase in collaboration with Missouri Distance Learning Association, Springfield Public Schools, Evangel University, Missouri State University and Drury University.

“Because Innovation Showcase celebrates National Distance Learning Week, it was important to make the Showcase accessible to everyone no matter where they are,” said Phillip Arnold, director of eLearning Systems at OTC.

“This years Innovation Showcase will allow remote faculty and students to participate in this event virtually from wherever they may have Internet access.”

The purpose of this week-long event is to recognize innovative teaching and learning practices and bring awareness to the many different modes through which students now learn: online, face-to-face and in a hybrid setting that is a combination of online and seated class.

“We have enjoyed partnering with area institutions to create this years Innovation Showcase,” said Matt Harris, college director of OTC Online.

“The program emphasizes effective instructional practices and technologies specific to distance education but can be applied to any learning environment.”

Dr. Jeff Borden, director of Pearsons Center for eLearning, will provide the showcases keynote address on Thursday, Nov. 6 from 1-3 p.m. in Lincoln Hall on the OTC Springfield Campus.

Borden, a consultant, speaker, professor, comedian and trainer, has presented internationally about teaching practices driven by creativity and technology.