2026 Iowa Adult Education & Literacy Conference

This session will explore the terms retention and persistence within an educational environment. It will also define the type of relationships that lead to the retention and persistence of students. Finally, participants will identify practical strategies they can use to build relationships with their students and articulate what such relationships mean for building a classroom community.  

This session introduces a practical framework for integrating AI into adult education programs in a way that is intentional, accessible, and aligned with student success outcomes. Rather than focusing on individual tools alone, participants will explore how to think strategically about AI across instruction, student support, and program operations.
This session highlights how AI can expand access for adult learners by reducing barriers in literacy, language acquisition, and digital readiness. Participants will leave with a clear picture of how AI can be used by staff and students and with ideas they can immediately apply within their programs.

AI is not just a tool, it’s an opportunity to rethink how we design access, persistence, and success in adult education.