EdTech Mini-Con

Registration is open!

The Adult Learning Resource Center will hold a new, free, virtual EdTech Mini-Con on Friday, February 17, 2023.


The EdTech Mini-Con will offer Illinois adult education instructors up to four hours of professional development on how to use technology to present lesson content, to teach students digital skills, or to use for student practice in face-to-face or virtual classroom settings.

Register for each session:



Session 1: 9:30 - 10:30 AM

Jamboard Inside and Outside of Class

Presented by Sarah Burkhart, Elgin Community College

This presentation will consist of demonstrations of collaborative Jamboard activities (to help students recall, identify, classify, rank, compare/contrast, and apply content) for ESL, ICAPS, and other classes. The engaging activities are for group and individual use, both in person and online. Attendees will also participate in Jamboard activities and brainstorm about how to use this tool in their own classes.

Register for this session


Session 2: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Health Information and the Internet for ELLs

Presented by Evelyn Cassano, Waubonsee Community College, and

Darlene Fahrenkrug, English Empowerment Center

Instructors will learn how to use a healthcare website to practice English and Digital Literacy skills. Presenters will model a lesson plan that can be adapted for different levels of learners. Website link and resources will be provided.

Register for this session


Session 3: 1:00 - 2:00 PM

Using Wordwall for Purposeful Language Practice

Presented by Marcia Luptak, Elgin Community College

Learn how to use Wordwall in different ways to provide students meaningful, engaging language practice including basic digital literacy skills, vocabulary development, sentence building, and critical thinking. See how Wordwall motivates students to do repeated practice with its variety of interactive activities. This free tool can be used on a smartphone as well as tablets and computers. Save paper while providing more practice! 

Register for this session


Session 4: 2:30 - 3:30 PM

Tried and True Tech Tools for Math Instruction

Presented by Amber Fornaciari, Central Illinois Adult Education Service Center

Whether planning for in-person, hybrid, or online math instruction, the integration of tech tools is essential to increase our students' flexibility with technology and benefit their math learning. Join us for an exploration of tech tools to help you integrate interdisciplinary routines, teach math with tech visuals, and create robust engaging lessons.

Register for this session


Questions? Contact Laura Sherwood, lsherwood@cntrmail.org

The Adult Learning Resource Center is a member of the Illinois Professional Development Network conducted under the provision of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Title II Adult Education and Literacy, and is administered through the Illinois Community College Board.

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