The Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most energizing gatherings for educators navigating digital, blended, and online learning. Taking place January 11–14 in Orlando, Florida, FETC brings together thousands of educators, school leaders, and innovators to explore what’s next in teaching and learning.
For online educators especially, FETC offers something uniquely valuable. Practical strategies, emerging technology, and real conversations about engagement, flexibility, and human centered learning in virtual environments.
If you are building your FETC 2026 schedule, here are five sessions and experiences that deserve a spot on your agenda.
1. Opening Keynote and General Sessions: Setting the Vision for 2026
FETC 2026 will kick off with a keynote experience designed to frame the future of teaching and learning in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. While the full keynote lineup is still being finalized, early agenda previews point to a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, instructional innovation, and keeping learning human centered as technology advances.
One featured keynote highlighted in early FETC materials is Alana Winnick, an education technology leader and author of The Generative Age. Her work focuses on preparing educators and students for a future shaped by AI and emerging tools.
In addition to the opening keynote, FETC’s general session programming includes keynote style experiences such as Tech Share LIVE! The Future of Teaching. Featured voices include Adam Bellow, Dr. Adam Phyall III, and Leslie Fisher.
For online educators, these sessions offer more than inspiration. They provide shared language, strategic context, and big picture thinking that helps shape how virtual instruction evolves throughout the year.
2. Investigating AI, AR, MR, VR, and XR Through Universal Design for Learning
As digital classrooms become more diverse, online educators are increasingly thinking about accessibility, personalization, and engagement at scale. Sessions exploring AI and immersive technologies through a Universal Design for Learning lens offer practical guidance on how emerging tools can support different learning needs without adding complexity.
These conversations are especially valuable for educators seeking thoughtful integration of technology that enhances instruction rather than overwhelming it.
3. VR Immersive Classroom Experiences
FETC’s VR Classroom sessions are a must attend for educators ready to move beyond passive learning experiences. These immersive sessions demonstrate how virtual reality can transport students into environments that deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and make learning memorable.
Online educators will see firsthand how immersive learning can support subjects ranging from science and history to social emotional learning and career exploration, all within virtual or hybrid instructional models.
👉 Optima will be hosting VR sessions in the FETC Classroom, offering hands on demonstrations that show how immersive experiences can elevate engagement and understanding in online learning environments.
4. ChatGPT and AI Strategies for Educators
AI continues to be one of the most talked about topics in education, and for good reason. Sessions focused on ChatGPT and AI tools explore how educators can responsibly leverage technology to support lesson planning, differentiation, feedback, and workflow efficiency.
For online educators balancing instructional time with planning and communication demands, these sessions provide realistic, classroom ready approaches rather than hype.
5. Teaching Digital Wellness in Online Learning Spaces
Online learning opens incredible opportunities and introduces new challenges around screen time, balance, and digital citizenship. Sessions focused on digital wellness equip educators with strategies to help students build healthy relationships with technology while staying engaged and motivated.
These conversations are especially relevant for virtual educators supporting students who spend a significant portion of their learning day online.
Visit Optima at FETC 2026: VR Sessions and Booth 219
In addition to hosting VR sessions in the FETC Classroom, Optima will be exhibiting at Booth 219 in the Exhibit Hall. Stop by to experience immersive learning in action, explore how VR can support online instruction, and connect with a team passionate about thoughtful, engaging education technology.
Why FETC Matters for Online Educators
FETC is not just about discovering new tools. It is about reimagining how learning works in digital spaces. The sessions above were selected because they speak directly to the realities of online education. Flexibility, engagement, accessibility, and meaningful human connection all matter.
Whether you teach fully online, support virtual learners, or design digital learning experiences, FETC 2026 offers ideas and inspiration you can take back to your classroom immediately.
If you are attending this year, be sure to build time into your schedule for these sessions. Come see us in the VR Classroom and at Booth 219.
Bridgette Hudak
