NEXT 2026 – Designing for Authenticity: Assessment, AI, and the Future of Learning
The University of Akron invites you to the 9th annual NEXT (New Explorations in Teaching) conference, where we turn our focus toward one of the most pressing challenges and opportunities in education: assessment in the age of artificial intelligence.
This year’s theme, “Designing for Authenticity: Assessment, AI, and the Future of Learning,” explores how we can meaningfully evaluate learning when generative tools are ubiquitous and knowledge is instantly accessible. This year’s conference will showcase innovative assessment strategies that prioritize critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and real-world relevance—without losing sight of integrity.
Join educators, technologists, instructional designers, researchers, and thought leaders on November 6, 2026, as we redefine what it means to assess learning in an AI-empowered world.
Who Should Attend?
Faculty
First and foremost, NEXT is designed to share ideas amongst the faculty who are in the classrooms, engaging our learners. This is an opportunity to learn about the strategies we use to promote active learning and overcome challenges that every educator encounters. This is a conference where we share both scholarship and practical applications of new technologies.
Administrators
What are some of the statewide initiatives that are now being discussed at individual institutions? Whether it is the impact of AI on education policy, the cost of education and how it pertains to open educational resources, the implementation of competency-based education, or the need to promote Universal Design for Learners, being part of these conversations at NEXT will help inform the conversation on your campus.
Instructional Designers/Educational Technologists/Instructional Support Staff
What are the best ways to engage your faculty with professional development? What technologies do you recommend to faculty or promote for your learners? This conference will include numerous sessions that will provide resources for support staff to bring back to their institutions.
Leaders in Organizations
Leaders in organizations that collaborate with faculty and/or staff in higher education are invited to submit a proposal and attend the conference to provide practical experience from the fields.
Students in Higher Education
Each year, we create opportunities for graduate students to join the conversation by attending and presenting their research. The student voice is essential, so we invite students to contribute their thoughts to these important topics.
Our Topic Areas:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Inquiry-based learning
- Problem-based learning
- Learner equity
- Community-based learning
- Experiential learning
- Small teaching practices
- Teaching in multiple modalities
- Evidence-based teaching strategies
- Collaborative learning
- Motivating and engaging students
- Assessment strategies
- Methods for increasing student retention
- Resilience in teaching and learning
We look forward to having you join us!
