UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The technology that college students access today can provide rich, instant and dynamic connections with others anywhere in the world and at any time. However, the same technologies can also cause students to feel isolated, disconnected and unmotivated to engage in the learning process.

Recognizing these challenges in higher education, Penn State University Libraries’ Teaching and Learning with Technology Learning Design Team will host the Digital Education Exchange Retreat (DEER) in May 2024. DEER will engage Penn State faculty to create Technology-Enhanced Experiences (TEEs) that leverage community platforms such as Spatial, Padlet and Microsoft Teams. Former DEER faculty also will share their wisdom with new members and expand the network of educators passionate about instructional technology.

DEER 2024 will be held May 22–24 at the Toftrees Golf Resort in State College. Lodging, meals and mileage are included. Interested faculty, adjunct instructors, lecturers and staff, such as instructional designers, who will teach during the fall 2024 or spring 2025 semesters are invited to apply by May 10. Faculty from all Penn State campuses are welcome.

During the two-and-a-half-day program, faculty will explore evidence-based strategies to build and maintain classroom communities. Additionally, they will learn research-informed designs of effective and meaningful group work, such as cooperative learning, and acquire skills to implement diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging (DEIB) focused teaching practices.

Applicants who are selected will be notified in early May. For more information, contact Helen Hu at huh162@psu.edu or Katy Colby at krc178@psu.edu.