D2L FUSION 2021
Thank You for Learning with Us!
Fusion 2021 brought Imagineers from around the world together to transform how the world learns.
If you’re registered for Fusion, you have access to everything in Fusion On-Demand, so you can catch up on any sessions you missed or experience the fun all over again!
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Fusion 2021 Recap
Week 1 90-second audio recap by Barry Dahl
Fusion Day 1
July 13, 2021
Our journey began with an inspiring Welcome Keynote from John Baker, President and CEO of D2L. John shared his insights on what’s next for the world, for learning, and for D2L.
John was later joined by special guests Jose Miguel Valdes Rodriguez, a student and child prodigy from South Island Distance Education School (SIDES); Cynthia Rodriguez (Jose’s parent); and SIDES Principal Karen Flello in an engaging fireside chat.
We also heard several customers and partners share their stories, tips, and tricks to kick off our first day of Fusion.
Fusion Day 2
July 14, 2021
Our second day provided topic tracks for accessibility and leadership and strategy.
D2L accessibility experts were joined by customers and partners to share solutions and tips for accessible and inclusive learning. The leadership and strategy track covered a variety of topics, including professional development, online in “the new normal,” COVID-19 lessons learned, competency-based learning, and more!
We also got a great lobster tostada recipe in our interactive culinary experience hangout.
Fusion Day 3
July 15, 2021
Our third day started with the D2L Solutions Spotlight, where Kenneth Chapman, VP of Market Research at D2L, talked about the latest innovations in Brightspace and how D2L is helping address the needs of today and tomorrow.
We then shared deep-dive demos that explored the product enhancements to support the needs in corporate, higher ed, and K-12. The rest of the day was full of sessions related to important topics, including upskilling and reskilling, professional development, personalized learning, course design, and more!
Fusion Day 4
July 20, 2021
We kicked off our second week of Fusion with international sessions for our EMEA and LatAm attendees, including sessions in Spanish and Portuguese.
The main topics were data analytics and instruction and design. Attendees learned what’s new in data analytics, tips and tricks for leveraging data, and how to use dynamic dashboards and statistics for learner and program assessment and improving engagement. We also had sessions covering quality instruction and course design at scale, tools for hybrid learning and student collaboration.
Fusion Day 5
July 21, 2021
Our fifth day started with international sessions then shifted to focus heavily on technical and development topics as well as more instruction- and design-related sessions.
Attendees learned how to get started with Brightspace APIs, integration approaches, and custom widgets, as well as how to train the tech tentative. Those looking for nontechnical sessions learned about ways to engage students in online labs, applying the nudge theory, and the power of transparency in learning and teaching. We also had some fun in our “Let’s Get Botanical” hangout.
Fusion Day 6
July 22, 2021
Our final day saw the last of our EMEA and LatAm international sessions as well as a variety of K–12, higher ed, and corporate presentations from customers, partners, and D2Lers. Topics included micro-credentials, adult learners, professional development, measuring outcomes, assessments, academic integrity, the art of the nudge, and leveraging social media. We ended our six-day Fusion journey with rocket scientist, technologist, and STEM educator Aprille Ericsson sharing her story.
John Baker's reflection (and personal experience) on the past year was inspiring. His calm and positive presentation style encouraged a heartwarming celebration of all the hard work we as educators felt overwhelmed by in the past year. Having D2L at the ready during the pandemic year truly set our College up for success in onboarding all faculty into the LMS quickly.
– MJ Dachelet, Northeast Iowa Community College
Wow, what a powerful session! John's keynote speech was very inspiring and has challenged me to step into my calling as an imagineer and seek out ways to improve our online environment for our students. This will be my 4th year at D2L Fusion and John's sessions never disappoint.
– Traci Rushing, Southern Arkansas University Tech
Always a treat to listen to John speak and share his experiences and vision. This quote resonated with me: "We need each other, we have to lift each other up so we can make change together." Throughout the past year, many were isolated and literally in lockdown. We needed each other to get through the challenges ahead. Our team adjusted, our organization adjusted and our partners (including D2L) had to adjust as well. Now the challenge is taking those lessons and applying them for future.
– Travis Hunt, Northeast Iowa Community College
Everyone who uses D2L should experience Fusion! Not only is there the networking and learning opportunities, but you get a huge shot of motivation to do more in your courses.
– Kathy Broneck, Assistant Professor of Practice, Pima County Community College District
It is singularly the best conference I've attended. Not only is the agenda jam packed with great stuff, but the networking with D2L'ers and other admins from all over is worth the price alone! Can't wait to be back face to face.
– Angelia Huggins, Managing Director, Georgia Southern University
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