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D2L Connection: Gold Coast

Ignite the Joy of Learning

September 2–3, 2025

Get ready to be inspired at D2L Connection: Gold Coast — a vibrant gathering of educators, leaders, and innovators who are passionate about shaping the future of learning and work. In a world of rapidly evolving approaches to education and work, this event is your chance to connect, collaborate, and explore bold ideas that are transforming education.

Our theme, “Ignite the Joy of Learning,” celebrates the power of innovation to spark creativity, foster deeper engagement, and deliver personalised learning experiences that truly empower. From thought-provoking keynotes to hands-on sessions, we’ll dive into how AI and other emerging technologies are revolutionising adaptive learning, giving learners more autonomy, flexibility, and confidence to navigate their own journeys.

Whether you’re driving change in the classroom, leading digital transformation, or reimagining the future of work, this is the place to be. Join us at the intersection of education and technology, and be part of a movement that’s making learning more joyful, impactful, and human.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of something extraordinary. Register now and help shape what’s next.

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Date

Duration

2 Days

Location
The Island Gold Coast 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia
People in a lecture hall watching a presentation
Two men shaking hands and smiling
Group photo of D2L Connection event attendees

Why Attend?

  • Explore how technology enhanced learning is evolving to meet the demands of today’s learners.
  • Discover the latest trends, product updates, and best practices.
  • Connect with D2L experts to share feedback and ask questions.

This is my first D2L connection and I was impressed. I’m walking away with more knowledge than I arrived with.

– Attendee, D2L Connection: Australia 2024

Made real connections with D2L and other users and now feel part of the community. All speakers and D2L reps including co-founder were very approachable and genuinely wanted to connect with us all. Good spread of topics, speakers and formats.

– Attendee, D2L Connection: Australia 2024

The speakers were great this year. I was only going to attend 1 day, but went to both because I enjoyed them.

– Attendee, D2L Connection: Australia 2024
The Island Gold Coast boutique hotel King Suite bedroom

Accommodation

The Island Gold Coast

3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd,
Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia

Event attendees are entitled to 15% off The Island’s direct room rates. To book your stay, email [email protected] and state that you’re a D2L Connection Event Attendee.

person presenting a slide show at D2L connection Gold Coast event

Call for Proposals

We are now accepting submissions for papers. We invite educators, researchers, and practitioners to share their innovative practices, research findings, and insights on innovation in education and technology.

Please submit your proposals by 31 July 2025, for an opportunity to contribute to the event.

Call for proposals have now closed.

Speakers

Christian Pantel

Chief Product Officer, D2L Read Christian Pantel's bio

Dr Cristi Ford

Chief Learning Officer, D2L Read Dr Cristi Ford's bio
Tony Macguire

Tony Maguire

Regional Director, ANZ, D2L Read Tony Maguire's bio
Kevin MacLeod Headshot

Kevin MacLeod

Learning Experience Architect, D2L

Agenda

Sep 2, 2025

Day 1

1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Registration

2:00 pm - 2:15 pm

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Speaker:

  • Tony Maguire, Regional Director, ANZ, D2L
2:15 pm - 2:45 pm

Fireside Chat

Speakers:

  • Dr Cristi Ford, Chief Learning Officer, D2L
2:45 pm - 3:00 pm

Movement Break

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Track 1: Higher Education

Breakout Session #1

 

Track 2: Professional & Corporate Learning

Breakout Session #2

4:00 pm - 4:15 pm

Movement Break

4:15 pm - 4:45 pm

Driving Innovation in Learning

Speaker:

  • Christian Pantel, Chief Product Officer, D2L
4:45 pm - 5:00 pm

Closing Remarks for Day 1

Speaker:

  • Tony Maguire, Regional Director, ANZ, D2L
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Networking Reception

Sep 3, 2025

Day 2

8:45 am - 9:30 am

Registration & Refreshments

9:30 am - 9:40 am

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Speaker:

  • Tony Maguire, Regional Director, ANZ, D2L
9:40 am - 10:25 am

H5P Keynote Presentation

10:25 am - 11:05 am

Panel Discussion | New Rules for Lifelong Learning and Career Growth

Moderator:

  • Dr Cristi Ford, Chief Learning Officer, D2L

Lifelong learning isn’t a buzzword — it’s a necessity. As career pivots, digital disruption, and demand for flexibility reshape adult education, who’s leading the charge? In this panel, moderated by D2L’s Dr Cristi Ford, hear from visionary leaders transforming how learners engage with education. From micro-credentials to modular pathways and learner-centric design, this session will deep dive into the innovations enabling continuous career growth.

11:05 am - 11:30 am

Morning Coffee Break

11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Track 1: Higher Education

Breakout Session #1

 

Track 2: Professional & Corporate Learning

Breakout Session #2

12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
Track 1: Higher Education

Breakout Session #3

 

Track 2: Professional & Corporate Learning

Breakout Session #4

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

Lunch and Networking

1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Track 1: Higher Education

Breakout Session #5

 

Track 2: Professional & Corporate Learning

Breakout Session #6

2:00 pm - 2:05 pm

Transition back to Main Plenary

2:05 pm - 2:35 pm

Fireside Chat

Speakers:

  • Christian Pantel, Chief Product Officer, D2L
  • Dr Cristi Ford, Chief Learning Officer, D2L
2:35 pm - 3:20 pm

Interactive Workshop | Sailboat to Success!

Facilitated by:

  • Kevin MacLeod, Learning Experience Architect, D2L
3:20 pm - 3:40 pm

Afternoon Coffee Break

3:40 pm - 4:25 pm

D2L Solutions Spotlight

Speakers:

  • Christian Pantel, Chief Product Officer, D2L
  • Dr Cristi Ford, Chief Learning Officer, D2L

Join us for an inside look at our latest product developments and enhancements. We’ll walk you through recent updates, highlight the features we’re most excited about, and give you a preview of what’s coming next on the roadmap. This session is designed to keep you informed, inspired, and ready to make the most of what’s ahead. We’ll wrap up with time for your questions and an open discussion.

4:25 pm - 4:30 pm

Closing Remarks

Speaker:

  • Tony Maguire, Regional Director, ANZ, D2L