Registration Opening July 22nd
What is National Distance Learning Week (NDLW)?
NDLW 2026 Theme
Advancing AI, Global Education (OER), and Sustainable Future of Distance Education
November 2nd - 6th 2026
National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) is a week of free digital and distance learning programming. It is presented by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) on a global level and has attracted multiple participating institutions over its 18 year history. These affiliate partners include USDLA state chapters as well as schools, colleges, universities, and corporations.
A Free Week of Distance Learning Programing for all Educators
In a long tradition of annually honoring the study of digital and distance learning, USDLA hosts a free virtual week-long series of webinars meant to:
- generate greater awareness and appreciation for distance/digital learning;
- spotlight applications in K-20, telehealth, corporate, and government/military;
- discuss current issues and emerging trends;
- highlight best practices;
- recognize leaders in the field
What topics are typically discussed at NDLW?
Past topics have included open access resources for gamification in education, building diversity in the distance learning workforce, micro-learning and more.
When is NDLW 2026?
NDLW 2026 will be held Monday November 2nd through Friday November 6th
How do I attend NDLW 2026?
You can register for free by clicking here
What is the cost to attend National Distance Learning Week?
There is no cost to attend NDLW as it is provided free of charge, courtesy of the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) and its industry sponsors
How many years has the association supported NDLW?
This years’ NDLW marks the 20th year for the event, providing valuable distance and digital education updates to more than 50,000 virtual attendees
2026 NDLW Schedule/Lineup Coming Soon
Please note that our 11am Daily Show is a chance for you to network and participate in discussions about how distance learning can be used to improve remote learner outcomes.
PLEASE NOTE: All webinar times listed are Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Day 1: Monday, November 2
11:00am - 12:00pm | Online Daily Show
Presenters: Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre, Kae Novak
Abstract: This is your daily talk show on distance and online learning. Topics will be taken from pas NDLW survey, current topics, educational tech trends and whatever else caffeine, time and popular culture allows.
12:00pm - 1:00pm | Coming Soon
Presenters: Coming Soon
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1:00pm - 2:00pm | Coming Soon
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Day 2: Tuesday, November 3
11:00am - 12:00pm | Online Daily Show
Presenters: Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre, Kae Novak, Michael Lampe
Abstract: This is your daily talk show on distance and online learning. Topics will be taken from the NDLW, current topics, ed tech trends and whatever else caffeine, time and popular culture allows.
12:00pm - 1:00pm | Coming Soon
Presenter: Coming Soon
Abstract: Coming Soon
1:00pm - 2:00pm | Coming Soon
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Day 3: Wednesday, November 4
11:00am - 12:00pm | Online Daily Show
Presenters: Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre, Kae Novak, Stephanie Wickman
Abstract: This is your daily talk show on distance and online learning. Topics will be taken from the NDLW, current topics, ed tech trends and whatever else caffeine, time and popular culture allows.
12:00pm - 1:00pm | Coming Soon
Presenter: Coming Soon
Abstract: Coming Soon
1:00pm - 2:00pm | Coming Soon
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Day 4: Thursday, November 5
11:00am - 12:00pm | Online Daily Show
Presenters: Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre, Kae Novak, Brandon Pouillot
Abstract: This is your daily talk show on distance and online learning. Topics will be taken from the NDLW, current topics, ed tech trends and whatever else caffeine, time and popular culture allows.
12:00pm - 1:00pm | Coming Soon
Presenter: Coming Soon
Abstract: Coming Soon
1:00pm - 2:00pm | Coming Soon
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Abstract: Coming Soon
Day 5: Friday, November 6
11:00am - 12:00pm | Online Daily Show
Presenters: Farah Bennani, Diana Montealegre, Kae Novak, Brandon Pouillot
Abstract: This is your daily talk show on distance and online learning. Topics will be taken from the NDLW, current topics, ed tech trends and whatever else caffeine, time and popular culture allows.
12:00pm - 2:00pm | Coming Soon
Presenter: Coming Soon
Abstract: Coming Soon
NDLW Partner Providers
The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) is happy to promote other NDLW events happening around the world.
Social Media Kit
The official hashtag for this event is #USDLANDLW2026.
Our social media handles are:
- @USDistanceLearningAssoc on Facebook
- @us-distance-learning-association on LinkedIn
- @USDLA on Twitter.
Our logo variations are attached here for presenters and panelists to use in their social media posts and/or to personalize their Zoom backgrounds.
After you attend a session, kindly take a moment to fill out the NDLW 2026 session survey letting us know your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback as it helps us to constantly improve the event.
NDLW Recordings
All NDLW sessions will be recorded and made available for free to USDLA members. If you would like to learn more about USDLA membership, please visit our membership page.