2010 Concurrents

Presenters: Brad Gibbs, Chief Growth Officer, PlattForm Higher Education; Marcelo Parravicini, Director of Marketing, Post University

Theme: Innovations – Use of technology, partnerships, pilot programs, etc.

This interactive presentation will discuss best practices in developing an interactive marketing strategy, discuss the different types of interactive marketing options and evaluate which are right for your institution. In addition, new technologies and how to evaluate their usefulness will be explored. The Director of Marketing at Post University will examine how the institution approaches interactive marketing, share success stories, and discuss challenges that may be encountered when utilizing interactive marketing tools.

Presenter: Marc Wilson, Hesser College

Theme: Learner needs – Access, outreach, recruitment, retention, international, etc.

Although adult learning theory and student retention theory each have a long history, few authors have explored how each body of literature might inform the other. This presentation seeks to find common ground between the two and will specifically look to build a model of adult retention that is not only grounded in well-established student retention theories but is also informed by the wisdom found in adult learning theory.

Presenter: Dr. Sandria S. Stephenson, Assistant Professor, Educational Ph.D. Program, Educational Administration and Psychological Services, College of Education, Texas State University-San Marcos

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

The 2006 Spellings report noted that, “As we look forward to the future, it is imperative that we maintain a system of higher education that meets the needs of our diverse population and in particular the needs of the traditionally underserved communities.” This paper analyzes the issue of mission versus money and the understanding of the use of the value-chain-analysis as a managerial accounting concept in extending the mission of continuing higher education.

Presenters: Bridget Davidson, Director of the Center for Academic Progress, St. Edward’s University; Kay Arnold, Assistant Director of Admission, St. Edward’s University

Theme: Best Practices in operations – Marketing, customer service, scholarships, etc.

St. Edward’s University has a large population of non-traditional adult students completing their bachelor’s degrees. For years, our inquiry fulfillment and follow-up had consisted of a few automated letters mailed to prospects. This past year, the university built a communication stream that more accurately depicted the hospitality, strong program, and sense of community our students can expect. Come hear about the brainstorming, collaboration, and implementation that involved admissions, marketing, and IT.

Presenters: Joe Miera, Associate Dean, Division of Continuing Education, The University of New Mexico; Rita Martinez-Purson, Dean of Continuing Education, The University of New Mexico

Theme: Best Practices in operations – Marketing, customer service, scholarships, etc.

This presentation will focus on tangible steps that managers and executives who have financial responsibility for educational programs can take to increase the probability that programs will be financially viable. The model focuses on the specific conditions that must exist and the expected management model outcomes of the Financial Accountability Model (FAM). Specific tools such as spreadsheets and memo templates will be provided that are used in conjunction with the FAM model itself.

6a ~ How are we promoting our adult continuing education degree programs? Findings and implications from one study of ads placed in a metropolitan newspaper.

Presenters: Ann M. Solan, Assistant Teaching Professor and Program Director, Drexel University; Stephen F. Gambescia, Associate Professor & Assistant Dean for Academic & Student Affairs, Drexel University

Theme: Research findings – Current research in the field of adult continuing higher education.

The purpose of this study was to analyze attributes used in print advertisements to promote adult degree programs. Results show that expediency, flexibility, and convenience far outdistanced personal growth, professional development, and learning for learning’s sake. The presentation concludes with suggestions for review of marketing messages.

6b ~ Creating a Brand Strategy Your Continuing Education Department

Presenters: Wendy Flint, Senior Vice President Marketing and Sales, Boston Reed College; Rhonda Dixon, Director Continuing Education and Workforce Training, Mt. San Jacinto College

Theme: Enhancing our work skills - Enrichment for the professional continuing educator/administrator

Discover how two continuing education leaders partnered to improve the branding of a continuing education division. Using internal and community surveys, identifying program distinctiveness from the competition, and changing the image of the department to chase after workforce contracts, a brand strategy was designed, approved by the college President, and implemented. Assessments include how the department went from $150K to $250K in profits in one year.

6c ~ Supporting Lifelong Learners with Compass

Presenters: Sunil Bala, Executive Director, Indtai, Inc.; Mark Blose, Program Director, AeX; Tammy Hickman-Blose, Program Director, SFeX/JeX

Theme: Best Practices in operations – Marketing, customer service, scholarships, etc.

This session focuses on career enhancement for adult learners within the military and beyond, including more use and promotion of neutral and un-biased web-based resources for information dissemination. Lessons learned from the development and implementation of platforms such as Compass and Academic Explorer, opportunities for the enhanced use of such platforms to foster continuing education and career enhancement for adult learners and professionals are explored.

Winner: "Discover Your Purpose Campaign"

Theme: Integrated Marketing Campaign
Presenter: Karyn Donahue, Associate Director for Student Recruitment, Eastern Nazarene College

The objective of the campaign was to communicate to continuing education prospects that Eastern Nazarene College is an educational resource for the community in which they live. Despite decades of misconceptions, ENC should be a choice for them as they explore their college options. In reversing the stereotype, we needed to inform our local market that ENC was not exclusive to members of the Nazarene Church, many of whom arrive from churches across the country. ENC was developing accelerated programs for people just like them who had busy lives, families, and jobs. We also wanted our target market to know that because of our flexible programming, our students were able to still enjoy their lives as they knew them. The more tangible objective was to increase enrollment by 10%.

Honorable Mention: "Begin with Your Degree"

Theme: Multi-media Marketing
Presenter: TBD

The objective of this campaign was to increase the enrollment in the Division’s four undergraduate degree programs:

• Bachelor of General Studies
• Bachelor of Applied Science
• Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies

Presenter: Nicole Foerschler, Vice President, JMH Consulting, Inc.

Theme: Innovations – Use of technology, partnerships, pilot programs, etc.

In his book What Would Google Do?, Jeff Jarvis outlines the philosophy and guiding principles behind one of the fastest growing companies in history. Being “Googley” is not only important to adapt to the market, but it’s critical to survive and to be relevant. In this presentation, we will outline some of Jarvis’ rules for working in a Google Era and explore how they can be applied to the continuing and executive education industry.

Presenters: William St. Pierre, System Director of Credit Programs, Division of Continuing Education & Outreach, Eastern Kentucky University; Richard Prewitt, Budget Director, Division of Continuing Education & Outreach, Eastern Kentucky University

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

With shrinking state resources and other university priorities, continuing education units do what they are good at: being entrepreneurial and finding opportunities in securing other financial resources. Two CE professionals discuss the basics of finding grants through collaboration and working within university environments for financial reporting and budgeting.

Presenter: Lisa M. Dodson, Kansas State University **2009 ACHE Research Grant Winner**

Theme: Research findings – Current research in the field of adult continuing higher education.

This session discusses the development and validation of a student exit survey for a multi-institutional consortium delivering online master’s degree programs. Participants will discuss student input characteristics and the impact of online learning environmental variables for student satisfaction, perceived learning, and new professional opportunities..

Theme: Best Practices in operations – Marketing, customer service, scholarships, etc.

Presenters: Evelyn Dow-Simpson, Associate Director, Central New Mexico Community College; Alicia West, Program Coordinator, Central New Mexico Community College

Participants will feel our pain and our joy as we walk through the square-peg/round-hole world of non-credit training within a traditional college system. Learn how finding the right “Tools that Fit” can make a huge impact on your operational flow, information management, and overall growth. Embrace a no-peg/no-hole, sky-is-the-limit attitude instead of a one-size fits-all mindset.

Presenters: Rebecca Beatty, Associate Director of Continuing Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park Campus; Elizabeth Lasher, Coordinator of Career Services for Continuing Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park Campus; Dana Aina, Academic Advisor for Continuing Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park Campus

Theme: Learner needs – Access, outreach, recruitment, retention, international, etc.

Penn State Continuing Education at University Park uses a “triage” approach to prioritize the needs of their adult learners and improve retention and success. A team approach to working with students to clarify educational goals, assess academic preparedness, and identify financial and academic resources has met with success. We’re working with adults – one student at a time – who seek additional education and skills to remain competitive in the workplace.

Presenter: Clare Roby, Associate Dean, California State University-Chico; Elaina McReynolds, Program Director, California State University-Chico

Theme: Enhancing our work skills – Enrichment for the professional continuing educator/administrator

The Radical Decision Making framework gives leaders the confidence to act decisively with sound decision-making strategies in turbulent times. Using California State University-Chico’s challenges and successes as examples and drawing from your own experiences, you will learn to embrace the capacity and barriers of change and hone your decision-making processes.

7a ~ Developing a Degree-Completion Program to Serve Broad Workforce Needs

Presenters: Robyn Hulsart, Austin Peay State University; Michael Becraft, Austin Peay State University; Victoria McCarthy, Austin Peay State University

Theme: Best practices in learning environments – New models, faculty, accelerated programs, non-credit, prior learning, etc.

This session will showcase a Bachelor of Professional Studies program that uses an innovative curriculum specifically designed to allow students with existing post-secondary education to seek a baccalaureate degree. Utilizing a lower-division technical concentration, the program allows for greater portability of prior credit and smoother transition into a four-year program.

7b ~Advising the Adult Learner: The Many Facets to Achieve Success

Presenter: Jerry H. Hickerson, Director of Interdisciplinary Studies and Professor of English, Winston Salem State University

Theme: Best practices in learning environments – New models, faculty, accelerated programs, non-credit, prior learning, etc.

With the expanse of information about the economy and the rationale for continued higher education, an opportunity to accelerate one’s learning is quite inviting to the new and returning adult college student. A pivotal aspect for the student is the option to receive credit for equivalency of knowledge and skills equal to those taught in college. This session will explore the role of advising and, in collaboration with attendees, discuss the keys for student success.

7c ~Tomorrow’s Workforce, Credentialed or Educated: The Role of the Liberal Arts in Adult Continuing Higher Education

Presenter: Mary Rose Grant, University of Missouri-Saint Louis

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

This session describes a model for an online liberal arts curriculum, presenting best practices in design and delivery that cultivate lifelong learning. Participants will explore competencies imperative for success in a future workforce. Discussions on adult continuing education as higher education and the need for an educated, credentialed workforce will take place.

Credit Program: "B.A. in Dance and Humanities for Professional Dancers"
Presenter: H. Ramsey Fowler, Director, Dance and Humanities and Associate Professor of English, St. Edward's University

Since 2008, New College at St. Edward’s University has offered a major in Dance and Humanities designed specifically to respond to the unique scheduling needs of Ballet Austin dancers and delivered on site at Ballet Austin at reduced tuition. In the fall of 2010, it will offer the same, electronically, to dancers of The Houston Ballet and the Dominick Walsh Dance Company employing Houston Ballet facilities.

Credit Program: Sprint and Park University "Science e-Fellows High Intensity Induction Program"
Presenter: Wakisha Briggs, Director of Continuing Education, Park University

Park’s Online educational system will be used to offer beginning teachers in grades 5-12 the support, skill development, and collegiality critical to their success. The Online system provides these teachers opportunities to advance in their school districts’ career ladders through continuing education credit or class credit.

Noncredit Program: "Uniting Industries, Sharing Costs, Building Successes - A Training Consortium Project"

Presenters: Manon Pardue, Western Kentucky University; Sharon Woodward, Western Kentucky University

This project began in 2004 with collaboration between the Bowling Area Chamber of Commerce, Western Kentucky University Center for Training and Development and Bowling Green Technical College. It began with three companies joining together to provide training for their employees by gaining access to funds provided by the Kentucky Economic Development Cabinet through Bluegrass State Skills Corporation. Approximately 50% of training cost is offset by the grant. Today there are 25 member companies in the Consortium.

Presenter: Miranda Carlisle, Program Coordinator, University of Alabama

Theme: Learner needs: Access, outreach, recruitment, retention, international, etc.

Back To Bama is an incentive program to encourage former University of Alabama students to complete their undergraduate degree via distance or on-campus. The discussion will include marketing and promotional strategies, student support efforts, and the program benefits of our marketing campaign that brings former UA students “Back To Bama.”

Presenter: Regis M. Gilman, Associate Dean – Educational Outreach, Western Carolina University; Danny Clark, Implementation Specialist – Smarthinking.com

Theme: Innovations: Use of technology, partnerships, pilot programs, etc.

As a follow-up to the research study of online learners, Western Carolina University contracted with Smarthinking.com to provide access to academic support and tutoring to all distance learners, i.e. online; off-campus, and at WCU regional campuses. This session will present the resources of Smarthinking.com, the evolution of usage, and the intentional strategies that have engaged faculty and students in the use of this web-based tutoring resource.

Presenter: Raymond Campbell, Private Consultant, The Agile Consulting Group

Theme: Best Practices in operations – Marketing, customer service, scholarships, etc.

The extent to which the core factors responsible for successful or unsuccessful online learning programs are known, practiced, or avoided by many online professionals remains a question. A synthesis of the literature on the factors relevant to the establishment of online learning programs as well as interactive dialogue about these factors will help to ensure that educators carefully consider the factors that contribute to both successful and unsuccessful online learning program efforts.

Presenter: M. Graeme Armstrong, Assistant Professor/Master of Higher Education Administration Coordinator, Upper Iowa University

Theme: Learner needs – Access, outreach, recruitment, retention, international, etc.

Using a case study approach, this presentation reflects upon lessons learned and best practices applied working with non-traditional learners at an Asian campus. Using comparative models, the session will contrast andragogy practices in the U.S. against adapted practices in an Asian culture. Through a reflective examination, attendees will be able to evaluate the methodology and gain valuable insight into its applicability among a culturally diverse non-traditional student population.

Presenter: Amber Dailey-Hebert, Founding Director, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning and Associate Professor of Adult Education, Park University

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

Our rapidly changing world and the global workplace we now occupy are changing at an exponential rate. Emergent technologies, globalization, ethical leadership, and the skills needed to navigate these areas demand a paradigm shift in how we educate and what we teach. Participants in this session will gain an understanding of the factors contributing to our transformative times and will explore the andragogical values needed in higher education to provide our learners with transferable skills for the uncertain future.

Presenter: Tim Copeland, Managing Partner, DemandEngine

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

A new national agenda to address the needs of adult learners offers tremendous opportunities for professional and continuing education units. To succeed in today's competitive, low resource education market, new approaches to outreach and enrollment productivity are required. In this presentation, learn proven strategies to measure prospective student demand, determine return-on-investment, and forecast future enrollments with confidence.

7a ~ Students’ and faculty perspectives on teaching presence, learning, and sense of community in online intensive courses: Summary of a mixed methods study

Presenter: Beth Laves, Assistant to the Dean, Program Development in the Division of Extended Learning and Outreach, Western Kentucky University

Theme: Research findings – Current research in the field of adult continuing higher education.

A mixed methods study of students’ and faculty perspectives of teaching presence, learning, and sense of community in online courses was conducted during a three-week Winter Term in 2009. This study found positive correlations among students between teaching presence, perceived learning, and sense of community in online intensive courses.

7b ~ Education 2010: The Emerging Classroom and Learning Society’s Needs

Presenters: Amy Jordan, Assistant (Lead) Professor, Organizational Leadership, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith; Rebecca J. Timmons, Executive Director, Center for Lifelong Learning, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Theme: Best practices in learning environments – New models, faculty, accelerated programs, non-credit, prior learning, etc.

Returning adult students are not returning to the classrooms they left. They ask, “Where’s the chalk?” This presentation examines faculty and adult returning student assumptions about today’s classroom – the virtual chalkboard. The paradigm of the returning student and his or her sense of academic quality is cross-referenced with the expectations of instructors whose student rosters reflect a myriad of new complexities.

7c ~ A Study Examining Faculty Opinions About Teaching Online Education Courses

Presenter: Emily Lewis, Associate Director, Morgan State University

Theme: Research findings – Current research in the field of adult continuing higher education.

The purpose of the study was to examine faculty’s opinions about teaching online courses, examining faculty’s perceptions, attitudes, and levels of job satisfaction about teaching online. The primary data was analyzed using a Repeated Measures ANOVA research analysis. The findings indicated faculty would have a positive opinion about teaching online if they received the appropriate resources.

Theme: Innovations – Use of technology, partnerships, pilot programs, etc.

Presenter: John E. Reid, Jr., President, JER Online (JER Group, Inc.)

JER Online has seen a number of its accredited .edu partners make the connection with corporate developed online courses that matchup specifically to a client’s requirements. Examples of such opportunities include schools like North Carolina State and the John Hancock Company; Lakeland Community College and their client Avery Dennison; Chattanooga State and Environmental Solutions Group; Truckee Community College in Nevada and Schneider Logistics. In the case of these institutions, their clients specifically asked a number of pertinent questions that required knowledgeable staff recommendations. One such consideration was in regards to establishing a branded corporate university setup that allows employees immediate and long-term access to their online courses. While Blackboard and other familiar LMS systems are typically used by .edu for instructional purposes, the Corporate Academy Option specific to workforce education may hold more promise, especially from an end user and reporting perspective. This presentation does not debate nor favor one LMS over another, but rather offers insight as to why corporate developed applications may be better suited technologies for the delivery of continuing workforce education.

Theme: Innovations – Use of technology, partnerships, pilot programs, etc.

Presenter: Scott Beadenkopf, Director, Academic Technology, Neumann University

In Continuing Adult and Professional Studies at Neumann University, adult learners are inviting both their employers and their faculty into their electronic portfolios. Employers are able to contribute formative evaluations and immediately see the product of their education dollars. The University faculty and administration can point to educational outcomes for promotion and accreditation; students have an online resume that showcases their accomplishments.

Theme: Learner needs – Access, outreach, recruitment, retention, international, etc.

Presenters: Roxanne M. Gonzales, Dean, Park Distance Learning, Park University; Wakisha Briggs, Director Continuing Education, Park University; Stephen Terry, Park Warrior Center Project Manager

ACHE and Park University partnered and received an ACE/Walmart grant for the Success for Veterans initiative. This session will explore best practices in serving veterans in college settings and the lessons learned as a result of grant implementation. If you serve veterans, this session will provide tangibles that will assist your institution in providing the best services possible for those who have served our country.

Theme: Learner needs – Access, outreach, recruitment, retention, international, etc.

Presenter: Lisa Elliott, Academic Advisor, East Tennessee State University at Kingsport

A culminating project in a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program provides insight into a dual enrollment partnership that exists between an extended campus of East Tennessee State University and an area high school. Each semester this high school accounts for a significant percentage of the total dual enrollment population at the university. This presentation describes the benefits associated with participation in dual enrollment, including student successes, experiences, attitudes, influences, and obstacles..

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

Presenters: Jeff E. Hoyt, Assistant to the Dean for Assessment, Brigham Young University; Scott L. Howell, Director of Evening Classes, Brigham Young University; Von Pittman, Director of the Center for Distance and Independent Study, University of Missouri; Don Sorensen, Vice President, Caveon Test Security

The reauthorization of the Higher Education Act requires continuing educators to verify that the identities of students enrolled in courses, taking tests, and receiving university credit are the same persons. This session will discuss academic dishonesty and what continuing educators can do to minimize cheating in their programs.

Theme: Innovations – Use of technology, partnerships, pilot programs, etc.

Presenters: Susan F. Fouts, Director of Continuing Education, Western Carolina University; Bobby R. Hensley, Associate Director of Continuing Education, Western Carolina University

The presenters will share their successes and show you how to reach new markets, increase revenue, and grow your number of offerings by finding and managing competent external professionals who share your vision of a successful educational program. The presenters will discuss risks, offer sample contracts, talk about employment implications, and share compensation models.

Presenter: Erin Walsh, Director of Student Retention, Neumann University
**2010 ACHE Research Grant Winner**

Theme: Responding to adult education and the national agenda

Raising postsecondary degree completion rates is a national priority and many states have adult degree completion programs that are designed to increase the number of adult residents with a college degree. However, no known study examines how the information and services offered by adult degree completion programs affect adults’ postsecondary reentry decisions. This case study addresses this knowledge gap by examining how the information and services provided by one adult degree completion program affect adults’ college reentry decisions.

8a ~ Creative Use of Technology Award Winner – The Best Practices Institute: Creating Development on Demand with Emergent Technologies

Amber Dailey-Hebert, Founding Director, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, and Associate Professor of Adult Education, Park University

The Best Practices Institute, under the aegis of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Park University, offers easily accessible, self-paced online modules on teaching and learning topics relevant to higher education faculty. The Institute reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence by supporting faculty development in continuous innovation and synthesis through active learning and reflection.

 
8b ~ Older Adult Model Program Award – Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Stony Brook University

Presenter: Janet S. McLean, Director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Stony Brook University

From the inception with 35 members, the Stony Brook University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute has grown to 773 members at start of the 2009-2010 academic year, participating in an ever-changing menu of over 150 plus workshops. Future expansion plans includes outreach programs to local senior residential retirement centers and the possibility of an expanded satellite program at the new Stony Brook University, Southampton campus.
                            
8c ~ Underserved Population Award Winner – Elementary Education AccessUs Program
                                                                                       
Presenter: Amanda Morales, C&I Graduate Student Advisor and PDS Partnership Coordinator, Kansas State University

The AccessUS program provided an alternative for students to complete their degrees and move into a professional career. The individual support provided to the students through face-to-face and electronic contact in conjunction with consistent interaction and follow-up encouraged the students to complete their goals.