In this episode of Open-Ed Mic, Ash Barber speaks to the hosts about the role of Creative Commons licensing in expanding access to learning and Indigenous knowledge. She also explores community ownership, regional differences, funding challenges, and the role of AI in education.

Abbey Elder discusses her path into open education, the creation of the OER Starter Kit, and strategies for building sustainable open education programs. The conversation explores faculty support, the intersection of open education and open access, the evolving role of librarians, and how artificial intelligence may shape the future of OER. An insightful episode for educators, librarians, and open education advocates.

In this episode of OpenEd Mic, the hosts reflect on their experiences at the 2025 Open Education Conference, discussing the importance of in-person connections, the impact of AI on education, and the ongoing challenges of accessibility in open educational resources. They explore overarching themes from the conference, including the need for community and belonging, and the integration of workforce development with open education. Looking ahead to Open Ed 2026, they express hopes for a stronger focus on AI tools and a more open-first approach in educational institutions.

Dr. Safary Wa-Mbaleka and Dr. Baiyun Chen join hosts Tom and Kelvin to discuss the future of the field of higher education instructional design and their comprehensive(!) new book on the subject. 

Guest Dr. Cristi Ford returns to the show to discuss with hosts Kelvin and Tom revolutionary forces, wicked problems, and the importance of seeing the future of digital learning and student success as “co-created.”

OLC’s Dr. Jennifer Mathes joins hosts Tom and Kelvin to discuss the roles we all can play in ensuring that higher ed online learning continues to be effective and strategic in meeting our society’s needs.

In our second session of Faculty Seminars in Online Learning on Wednesday, Sept. 17, you’ll explore how to foster academic integrity in online courses. Learn strategies to reduce cheating, leverage AI to support learning, and apply integrity tools effectively. This session offers practical insights to enhance assessment design and promote student success in today’s digital teaching environment.

Higher ed futurist Dr. Bryan Alexander guests alongside hosts Kelvin and Tom to reflect on the recent past and near-term possible futures of digital higher education.

This session provides an in‑depth look at authentic assessment and its role in creating meaningful, real‑world learning experiences. Participants will explore strategies that promote engagement and critical thinking while integrating AI tools ethically and effectively.

Return guest Dr. Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich joins hosts Kelvin and Tom to share hard won expert tips on improving online program marketing and enrollment.