National Distance Learning Week 2026

What is National Distance Learning Week (NDLW)?

Our 2026 Theme - Advancing AI, Global Education (OER), and the Sustainable Future of Distance Education - November 2nd-6th 
National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) is a week of free digital and distance learning programming. It is presented by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) on a global level and has attracted multiple participating institutions over its 18 year history. These affiliate partners include USDLA state chapters as well as schools, colleges, universities, and corporations.

In a long tradition of annually honoring the study of digital and distance learning, USDLA hosts a free virtual week-long series of webinars meant to:
  •  generate greater awareness and appreciation for distance/digital learning;
  • spotlight applications in K-20, telehealth, corporate, and government/military;
  • discuss current issues and emerging trends;
  • highlight best practices;
  • recognize leaders in the field

What topics are typically discussed at NDLW?
Past topics have included open access resources for gamification in education, building diversity in the distance learning workforce, micro-learning and more.

National Distance Learning Week 2026 Schedule

Faculty Programs
JoVE for Faculty 
Monday, November 2 | 2:00-3:00 p.m. Eastern | Virtual via Teams 
Join JoVE for a faculty-focused session exploring practical ways to enhance teaching and course design through JoVE's educational video platform. The session will highlight resources that support teaching and learning, including opportunities to incorporate JoVE into STEM instruction and explore tools such as Ask JoVE AI. The session will be hosted by Dr. Noelia Gorod, Customer Success Specialist at JoVE. Register here:  https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/81e44e6f-9ce8-459d-84ad-b828b34274da@d844dd75-a4d7-4b1f-bd33-bc0b1c796c38?source=copyLinkLegacyShareLinkDialog  

USDLA Webinars
11/2-11/6, 11am-2pm
In a long tradition of honoring National Distance Learning Week (NDLW), this year the
United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) will once again host a free, virtual,
week-long NDLW conference. Join webinars all week long. Register here:  https://usdla.org/events/national-distance-learning-week/  

Student Programs
Bluford Library Online Scavenger Hunt
Opens Monday, November 2 | Online 
The Bluford Library Online Scavenger Hunt invites Online learners to explore digital
resources, discover hidden gems within the library’s virtual collections, and strengthen
their research skills in a fun, interactive way. The first 150 Online Aggies to complete the
hunt will receive a free coffee on us! Check your student email for instructions and get
ready to join the adventure! Register here: https://ncat.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8w9KjDPNrqRTpf8  

Online Learner Check-In 
Thursday, November 5 | 6:00 p.m. Eastern | Virtual via Microsoft Teams 
Take a break and connect with fellow Online Aggies during the National Distance Learning Week Online Learner Check-In. Join us virtually for conversation, helpful resources, activities, and Aggie fun as we celebrate N.C. A&T's online learning community.  Register here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/253154e2-f65e-4fae-8271-d66644c05195@d844dd75-a4d7-4b1f-bd33-bc0b1c796c38?source=copyLinkOneEventsShareDialog 

Show Us Your Online Aggie Experience! Social Media 
November 2-6 | Social Media 
What makes your Online Aggie experience special? During National Distance Learning Week, we are celebrating the people and places that make online learning possible at N.C. A&T. Share your favorite online learning space or give a shout-out to an online professor who has made a difference in your learning experience. Look for the designated National Distance Learning Week post on our social media pages and follow the participation instructions for a chance to win an Aggie giveaway. Use #NCATNDLW2026. 

JoVE for Students 
Tuesday, November 3 | 2:00-3:00 p.m. Eastern | Virtual via Teams 
Discover how JoVE's educational video resources can support learning, strengthen understanding of complex concepts, and complement the online learning experience. This student-focused session will introduce Online Aggies to resources available through JoVE and demonstrate ways to make the most of the platform. The session will be hosted by Dr. Noelia Gorod, Customer Success Specialist at JoVE. Register here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/828c5aa6-9d12-49a3-8444-098ee58486a3@d844dd75-a4d7-4b1f-bd33-bc0b1c796c38?source=copyLinkLegacyShareLinkDialog