Summary of the MI-LEARN Design Lab Virtual Convening
Introduction & Opening Remarks

• The session started with a welcome and an introduction to the MI-LEARN Design Lab.
• Participants were reminded to mute their microphones and engage as needed.
• The event was funded by MiLeap and led by the Michigan Center for Adult College Success, with support from several partner organizations (CBEN, ESG, SOA, and CAEL).

Inspirational Quote

• A quote from BB King was shared: “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”
• The quote served as a reminder of the impact of education and lifelong learning.

Agenda Overview

1. Connection Activity

• Participants engaged in a Miro Board activity to assess confidence in institutional support for adult learners.
• Institutions identified key focus areas such as curriculum reform, competency-based education (CBE), credit for prior learning (CPL), flexible scheduling, and micro-credentials.
• A “magic wand” question allowed attendees to envision their ideal institutional change.

2. What Makes Curriculum Reform Effective?

• Panel Discussion with Experts (SOA, C-BEN, ESG, CAEL)
• Key Takeaways:Define the “Why” Clearly: Understand the exact problem curriculum reform is solving.
• Faculty Engagement is Crucial: Faculty should not just be at the table but should lead the reform.
• Cross-Functional Teams: Include stakeholders from multiple departments (admissions, financial aid, administration).
• Employer & Student Involvement: Ensure the curriculum aligns with workforce needs and student goals.
• Balance Urgency & Patience: Change takes time, but a sense of urgency is needed to drive progress.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Institutions should leverage internal and external data to guide reforms.
• Overcoming Resistance: Acknowledge fears, engage stakeholders, and provide clear communication.

3. Leading from Where You Are

• Key Points on Change Leadership:Influence over authority is key in higher education.
• Build coalitions, connect individual motivations to institutional goals.
• Be transparent with data and decision-making.
• Acknowledge that people resist change due to fear of loss.
• Create an institutional culture that embraces innovation.

4. Reflections & Q&A

• Participants shared thoughts on:

• Balancing Speed & Buy-in: Moving forward with urgency while maintaining engagement.
• Employer Partnerships: Integrating workforce needs into curriculum planning.
• Breaking Institutional Silos: Improving cross-department collaboration.
• The Role of Data in Persuasion: Using retention and financial loss data to justify reforms.

5. Next Steps & Upcoming Convenings

• April 9-10, 2025: In-person session at Aquinas College (Grand Rapids, MI)
• May 13, 2025: Virtual session
• June 17-18, 2025: In-person session at Traverse City, MI
• Participants will be matched with coaches to help develop their plans.

Grant Opportunities

• College Success Grants (Deadline: May 23, 2025)
• Barrier Removal & Institutional Capacity Grants (Deadline: June 20, 2025)
• Assistance available for grant writing and proposal preparation.

Final Thoughts

• Key takeaways: Balance urgency with strategy, involve stakeholders early, and leverage data.
• Participants were encouraged to reach out for coaching and support.
• The session concluded with an open Q&A and encouragement for institutions to take the next steps toward reform.

This session provided an important foundation for institutions working toward meaningful curriculum changes that better serve adult learners.