National Distance Learning Week 2025: Innovation, AI, and the Future of Online Education

November 3–7, 2025 | Free Virtual Event | Hosted by USDLA

Every November, the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) brings educators, innovators, and learners together for National Distance Learning Week (NDLW)—a celebration of the transformative power of online education.

This year, NDLW 2025 will take place November 3–7, featuring five days of conversations, panels, and keynotes highlighting artificial intelligence, innovation, student voice, and the global online learning community.

NDLW provides educators with:

• Access to leading voices shaping the future of distance and online learning.
• Practical strategies for leveraging AI and educational technology.
• Tools for equity, engagement, and student success.
• A global community of peers and experts.

Whether you’re a faculty member, administrator, instructional designer, or ed tech leader, NDLW offers fresh ideas and resources to transform practice.

📅 NDLW 2025 Sessions by Day

Monday, November 3

• 11 AM ET – Online Daily Show
  USDLA Crew with Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre & Kae Novak
• 12 PM ET – AI: The Great Disequilibrium (Panel)
  Chris Luchs (Community College of Denver), Jim Vernon (Aims Community College)
• 1 PM ET – AI for All Minds: Lessons from Neurodiversity
  Josh Penzell (Imagination Applied)

Tuesday, November 4

• 11 AM ET – Online Daily Show
  USDLA Crew with Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre & Kae Novak
• 12 PM ET – AI: Friend or Foe for Learning & Development?
  Michael Lampe (UCHealth), Adam Barragato (Bien-Air Medical Technologies)
• 1 PM ET – Reframing RSI: Your Best Defense Against AI Misuse
  Marcus Popetz (Harmonize), Alyson Mike

Wednesday, November 5

• 11 AM ET – Online Daily Show
  USDLA Crew with Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre & Kae Novak
• 12 PM ET – Finding the Balance: Addressing the AI Disequilibrium
  Matt Stilwell (Front Range Community College)
• 1 PM ET – Creating the Conditions for Student Voice & Agency
  Dr. Heather Young (University of Florida), Debra Olbeding, Victoria Dela Cruz & Alessandra Puilen (Yellowdig)

Thursday, November 6

• 11 AM ET – Online Daily Show
  USDLA Crew with Kae Novak
• 12 PM ET – See, Ask, Discover: Bringing Experts & Experiences in Real Time
  Allyson Mitchell (Center for Interactive Learning & Collaboration)
• 1 PM ET – Building Peer Connections & Social Capital (Panel)
  Katy Kappler (InScribe), Sarah Rasmussen (Dakota State University), Nathan Watson (Lindenwood University)

Friday, November 7

• 11 AM ET – Online Daily Show
  USDLA Crew with Farah Bennani & Kae Novak
• 12–2 PM ET – Closing Keynote: The AI Transforming Learning & Launching Careers
  Dr. Robbie Melton (Tennessee State University)

Event Themes and Highlights

Artificial Intelligence Front and Center

AI is woven throughout this year’s agenda, from “The Great Disequilibrium” panel to inclusive design for neurodiverse learners, and culminating with Dr. Robbie Melton’s keynote on AI and the future of careers. These sessions address pressing questions: Should higher education accelerate or brake in its adoption of AI? How can institutions ensure equitable access? What strategies best prepare students for an AI-driven workforce?

Student Voice and Belonging

Sessions on student agency, peer connections, and community building emphasize that online learning is not just about technology—it’s about people. Educators will explore how to amplify student voices, create inclusive environments, and strengthen persistence through digital communities.

Real-World Learning Connections

Virtual field trips and experiential learning also take the spotlight, with Allyson Mitchell (CILC) showcasing how to bring museums, labs, and experts directly into digital classrooms—bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Why You Should Attend

By the end of NDLW 2025, attendees will walk away with:

• New ideas for integrating AI meaningfully in teaching and learning.
• Research-based strategies for student engagement and motivation.
• Insights into balancing innovation with equity, access, and inclusion.
• A stronger network of peers leading the charge in distance education.

📅 Save the Date: November 3–7, 2025
🌐 Where: Online (free to attend)
👉 Learn more and register here