Join the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community and Expand Your Knowledge

 

Are you passionate about lifelong learning and expanding your knowledge? Look no further than the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community! Created by SCOC Consulting, LLC, this vibrant online community aims to build learning experiences and share resources worldwide. Whether you're an educator, designer, administrator, or simply a curious learner, this virtual community has something for everyone.

 

What is the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community?

The Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community is a space where like-minded individuals come together to explore innovative ideas, exchange knowledge, and engage in meaningful discussions. It provides a platform for professionals in adult education, distance teaching and learning, staff development, and more to connect, collaborate, and grow.

 

What are the Topics the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community Addresses?

Currently, the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community has 10 categories organized into three areas: (1) Teaching and Learning, (2) Writing and Publishing, and (3) Adult and Higher Education.

Teaching and Learning

Conversations on Learning Design

This category, moderated by Simone Conceição and Les Howles, focuses on learning design theory, research, and practice. View the blog and join the Discussion

Conversations about Online Teaching and Learning

This category, moderated by Simone Conceição and Rosemary Lehman, focuses on online teaching and learning. Listen to the Podcast and Join in the Discussion

 

Professional Development for Instructors

This category, facilitated by Simone Conceição and Karen Skibba, focuses on online and hybrid resources, webinars, micro-courses, and podcast episodes for instructors. Listen to the Podcast and join the Discussion

 

 

Writing and Publishing

Information Literacy

This category, moderated by Lilian Hill, focuses on the challenges to teaching and communicating in a polarized world. Listen to the Podcast and join the Discussion

 

 

Editing with Kate!

This category, moderated by Kate Devlin, focuses on tips about editing papers, blogs, social media, reports, newsletters, and resumes. Listen to the Podcast and Join in the Discussion

 

Getting Published!

This category, moderated by Simone Conceição and guests, focuses on tips, resources, and author interviews about publishing. Listen to the Podcast and join the Discussion

 

 

 

Adult and Higher Education

Conversations from the Front Porch

This category, moderated by Leslie Cordie, provides interviews with adult educators around the world about their lifelong learning lessons. Listen to the Podcast and join the Discussion

 

Adult and Higher Education FutureTech

This category, moderated by Larry Martin, Susan Yelich Biniecki, and Simone Conceição, focuses on the trends and technology drivers influencing AHE. Listen to the Podcast and Join in the Discussion

 

Reflective and Creative Practice for Adult Educators

This category, moderated by Kathy Lohr,  focuses on creative and critical reflection for adult educators and scholars through featured blogs, podcast episodes, and resources. Listen to the Podcast and Join in the Discussion

 

 

 

Knox-Houle Collection

This category, moderated by Dr. Alan Knox and Dr. Terry Gibson, focuses on the publications assembled by Alan Knox. Listen to the Podcast and Join in the Discussion

Virtual Learning Opportunities for Community Engagement

Creating engaging virtual events is a key aspect of the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community. Here are some exciting ideas to amplify your community engagement:

·      Interactive Webinars: Attending 90-minute interactive webinars to instructors in higher education, K-12, business, and training. From creating a sense of presence for online learning to promoting learner engagement through social interactions, these webinar sessions will help you lead a successful career as an online instructor or trainer.

·      Keynote Speakers: Inviting keynote speakers with expertise in various fields can inspire and motivate community members. These sessions provide valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions.

·      Interactive Workshops: Prioritize your professional development needs by attending half-day or full-day in-person workshops on adult education topics. These workshops provide evidence-based practices with meaningful application to course design and teaching.

·      Training Courses for Adult Educators: For those interested in adult education, learning design, and program evaluation, there's a range of training course possibilities. From program planning and evaluation to the design of courses for adult learners, these courses will enhance your knowledge and skills in the adult education field.

·      Free Webinar Opportunities: Consider attending the free webinar sessions offered by the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community.

 

 

The Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community is a hub of knowledge, collaboration, and growth. By joining this vibrant community, you'll have access to valuable resources, engaging virtual events, and a supportive network of professionals. Expand your knowledge, contribute to meaningful discussions, and connect with like-minded individuals. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to enhance your learning journey.

 

Ready to embark on a journey of lifelong learning? Join the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community today and unlock a world of possibilities!

 

Visit the Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community website to sign up and start expanding your knowledge today! Join our vibrant community and connect with passionate learners and professionals from around the globe. Together, let's build a future of learning excellence.

 

Register Now! | Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community | Events

 

Coaching Sessions for Graduate Students and Academics!

 

 

Coaching for Graduate Students: Sessions with Dr. Simone C. O. Conceição. Visit our website to learn more and book a session.

 

Coaching for Academics: Sessions with Dr. Lilian H. Hill, CPC. Visit our website to learn more and book a session.

 

 Supported by

Hesitant about writing groups? Try silent writing.

 

By Kathy Lohr

 

Writing is hard and typically done in isolation. If you are a writer who easily pushes through, around, or over writer’s block, a writing group may not be for you. However, if a nap or additional research rises to the top of your priority list when you sit down at your keyboard, writing with a group might be the solution. Writing groups differ by purpose, context, and format. These differences are crucial to your satisfaction. 

Types of Writing Groups

Here are some versions of writing groups that differ in context, purpose, and format:

1. Fiction writers gather at a coffee shop or restaurant for the purpose of sharing and critiquing work. Feedback is key. 

2. Higher education faculty and/or students meet in an office or writing center to collaborate, mentor, or peer review work. Accountability, productivity, and encouragement are typically requisite. 

3. Memoir writers congregate at a bookstore, library, or home to read their life-stories and share memories. Community and trust are fundamental.

In the above examples, writers gather in a common space. However, with the advent of Zoom and other video collaboration platforms, virtual writing groups have exploded. The advantages of writing from one’s office or home have obvious advantages. This is particularly true for silent writing. The focus of silent writing is the writing itself. It carves out a quiet, distraction-free space allowing writers to concentrate on their work. While working alongside other writers reduces the isolation of writing alone and adds an accountability element, it also produces results. It is particularly conducive for introverts who often thrive in protected spaces. 

What are the Characteristics of Silent Writing Groups?

Silent writing groups have several characteristics in common: 

1. There is a facilitator. This can be one person or rotated through the group. The video platform may dictate that one individual holds the license or subscription. 

2. A set meeting time is established. Typically, once a week or more. Time of day may depend on the time zones of the participating writers.

3. Microphones are muted for the designated time to write in silence.

4. Group rules are presented prior to or at the first meeting.

What is Different About Silent Writing Groups?

Silent writing groups differ:

1. Some are free, some have a cost.

2. Minimum attendance is required, or attendance is voluntary.

3. Camera usage is required or left up to the participant.

4. Participants can come late and leave early, or attendance at the entire session is required.

5. Beginning sessions can be as brief as a simple greeting or the sharing of goals for the session. Concluding the session may involve brief closing remarks or individual reflections. 

Be sure to inquire about the specific rules a silent writing group follows. You may have to try several to find a good fit. Since writing is the goal, be sure your choice fits your needs whether it is feedback, encouragement, critique, or just common space. 

Want to Join a Silent Writing Group?

The Adult Learning Exchange Virtual Community is facilitating a silent writing group during the month of August 2023. This Virtual Writing Group focuses on your writing, in whatever form that takes. Academic, creative non-fiction, fiction, memoir, whatever you need, this is your space to create. Our rules are few. Register for the eight Tuesday and Thursday meetings. Sign into the Zoom meetings at the appointed times. Come late or leave early. We’ll start each hour and a half session with a brief welcome then get right to writing, microphones off. Turn your camera off or leave it on. Kathy Lohr is facilitating this August Virtual Writing Group and will be on camera and monitoring the chat room if you have questions or comments during the silent period. After an hour, Kathy will call time. You can stay to reflect with Kathy and your fellow writers for the remaining time, or not. This is a great opportunity to try silent writing. Check out this link for more details. 

Reserve Your Space Now for the August Virtual Writing Group

Virtual Writing Group

 Virtual Writing Group

Virtual writing, also known as silent writing or focused writing, is a popular technique used by writers, academics, and graduate students to increase productivity and overcome writer's block. Through the practice of silent writing, individuals gather online in a quiet and distraction-free environment, allowing them to concentrate on their work and unleash their creativity.

 

Zoom Session

Meet virtually on Zoom for an hour twice each week to work on a current writing project.
A 30-minute open chat/reflection will be held immediately following each hourly session of silent writing.

Participation

Participants can choose whether to activate their cameras during the sessions.

Attendance is optional but absences are not refundable.

Tips for Building a Strong Online Presence for Coaching Services

 

Photo Credit to Lilian H. Hill

In today's digital age, building a strong online presence is crucial for coaches who want to reach a wider audience. The internet provides a platform for coaches to showcase their expertise and connect with potential clients. However, many coaches struggle to create an effective online presence that truly represents their brand and attracts their ideal clients. In this blog post, we'll discuss some tips for building a strong online presence for coaching services.

 

Define Your Brand

The first step in building a strong online presence is to define your brand. What makes your coaching service unique? What values do you represent? What solutions do you offer to potential clients? These are all questions you should consider when creating your brand. Once you've established your brand identity, you can use it as the foundation of all your online content.

Create a Professional Website

Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your coaching services. It's important to create a professional website that accurately represents your brand and showcases your expertise. Make sure your website is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and includes all the necessary information about your services.

Use Social Media Strategically

Social media is a powerful tool for building an online presence. It allows you to connect with potential clients and showcase your expertise. However, it's important to use social media strategically. Choose platforms that align with your brand and target audience. Create valuable content that resonates with your audience and engage with your followers regularly.

Develop Content Marketing Strategy

Developing a content marketing strategy is key to building a strong online presence. It involves creating valuable content that positions you as an expert in your field and attracts potential clients. This can include blog posts, video testimonials, podcasts, and social media content. Use Search Engine Optimization (SEO) best practices to optimize your content for search engines and increase its visibility.

Use Email Marketing to Nurture Relationships

Email marketing is an effective way to nurture relationships with potential and current clients. It allows you to provide value and stay top-of-mind with your audience. Use email marketing to share valuable content, offer promotions, and keep your audience informed about your services.

Participate in Online Communities

Participating in online communities relevant to your coaching services is a great way to build a strong online presence. It allows you to connect with potential clients, share your expertise, and establish relationships with other professionals in your field. This can include Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, and online forums.

Monitor Your Online Reputation

Monitoring your online reputation is crucial for building a strong online presence. This involves monitoring your social media accounts, website, and online reviews to ensure that your brand is accurately represented. Respond to any negative reviews or comments in a professional and respectful manner.

 

In conclusion, building a strong online presence is crucial for coaches who want to reach a wider audience and grow their business. By defining your brand, creating a professional website, using social media strategically, developing a content marketing strategy, using email marketing, participating in online communities, and monitoring your online reputation, you can create a powerful online presence that attracts your ideal clients.

 

Are you ready to build a strong online presence? Contact SCOC Consulting Services for comprehensive consultations to help you understand and apply evidence-based principles and strategies to your online presence. Join our virtual community and listen to our podcasts to engage with our audience. Let's work together!

 

Coaching for Academics | Coaching for Graduate Students