Accounting Educator Exchange (Virtual)

The Kentucky Society of CPAs (KYCPA), Maryland Association of CPAs (MACPA), North Carolina Association of CPAs (NCACPA) and the Virginia Society of CPAs (VSCPA) have joined together to present the multi-state Virtual Accounting Educators Exchange.

This virtual event provides a dynamic forum to share best practices, discover innovative teaching techniques, and stay abreast of the latest trends. Engage in panel discussions with industry experts and network with peers from across the region. Explore critical topics such as the latest updates on alternative pathways to the CPA, effective strategies for engaging online students, the power of service-learning projects, and the impact of intelligence and data analytics in accounting education.

Highlights: Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Alternative Pathways, Online Learning, Curriculum Strategies
Who Should Attend: Accounting Educators
Required Knowledge: Participants should have accounting education experience
Field of Study: Various
Advanced Preparation: None
Approved CPE: 6 Hours

The accounting profession faces a crucial moment, requiring new approaches to strengthen the CPA pipeline. This session will address the national need to broaden access to CPA licensure. A primary goal is to develop efficient methods for aspiring CPAs to earn their credentials and become vital business advisors. Attendees will learn about recent national and regional regulatory changes affecting licensure. Furthermore, alternative licensure pathways, designed to support students, will be explored.

Learning objectives:

•    Understand the Current State of CPA Licensure: Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges and opportunities surrounding CPA licensure in the United States.
•    Explore Innovative Pathways to Licensure: Participants will be able to identify and evaluate alternative pathways to CPA licensure, particularly those designed to benefit their students.
•    Stay Informed on Regulatory Updates: Participants will be updated on national and regional regulatory changes affecting CPA licensure.
•    Recognize the Importance of CPA Licensure for the Economy: Participants will understand the critical role of CPAs as trusted business advisors and their contribution to a thriving economy.

As artificial intelligence continues transforming the accounting profession, educators play a crucial role in preparing students for the ethical and practical challenges they will face in the workforce. This interactive panel discussion will provide accounting educators with insights into how AI is shaping employer expectations for newly graduated students.
Through real-world case studies and hands-on discussions, attendees will explore the role of AI in accounting, its ethical considerations, and the importance of transparency in AI-driven decision-making. The session will equip educators with practical strategies to integrate AI literacy, ethical reasoning, and responsible data practices into their curricula, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the profession.
 

Learning Objectives:

•    Understand AI’s Growing Role in Accounting – Gain insights into how AI is being used in auditing, tax, advisory, and financial reporting, and what skills employers expect from new graduates.
•    Emphasize Transparency in AI Usage – Explore why transparency is critical in AI-driven accounting processes and how students can evaluate AI-generated outputs with a critical mindset.
•    Analyze Real-World Case Studies – Engage in practical examples of AI applications in accounting, highlighting both opportunities and risks, to prepare students for ethical dilemmas in the workplace.
•    Incorporate AI and Ethics into Accounting Curriculum – Discover employer expectations for accounting education, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready.

Data analytics is transforming the accounting profession, making it essential for educators to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in this evolving landscape. This session will explore emerging trends in data analytics, including artificial intelligence, automation, and predictive modeling, and discuss how these advancements are reshaping accounting education and practice.

Attendees will gain insights into utilizing data analytics, and more importantly, how to integrate these concepts into accounting curricula. The session will feature real-world applications, case studies, and teaching strategies to ensure students are prepared for data-driven decision-making in their careers.
 

Learning Objectives:

·    Identify key trends in data analytics that are influencing the accounting profession.
·    Explore best practices for incorporating data analytics into accounting coursework.
·    Develop strategies for engaging students with hands-on learning experiences, including case studies and technology-driven exercises.
·    Understand the impact of AI, machine learning, and big data on financial reporting and decision-making.

Service-learning bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world application, providing students with hands-on experiences that benefit both their education and their communities. This session will explore how accounting educators can develop and implement meaningful service-learning projects that engage students, support local organizations, and enhance learning outcomes. Attendees will gain insights into successful program models, strategies for building partnerships between institutions and community organizations, and best practices for integrating service-learning into accounting curricula. Whether you’re looking to launch a new initiative or enhance an existing program, this session will provide actionable steps to inspire student involvement and create lasting community impact.

Learning Objectives:

·    Understand the Value of Service-Learning— Identify the benefits of service-learning in accounting education, including student skill development, community impact, and career readiness  
·    Develop Effective Service-Learning Projects— Learn how to design and implement service-learning initiatives that align with course objectives, engage students, and provide meaningful real-world experiences.
·    Build Partnerships for Success— Explore strategies for collaborating with institutions, non-profits, and community organizations to create sustainable and impactful service-learning opportunities.

With the growing shift to online learning, accounting educators face unique challenges in keeping students engaged, motivated, and actively participating in virtual courses. This session explores innovative teaching strategies, technology tools, and best practices that foster interactive and meaningful learning experiences. Attendees will gain insights into creating dynamic course content, leveraging discussion forums, incorporating real-world case studies, and using gamification techniques to enhance student engagement. Whether you’re new to online teaching or looking to refine your approach, this presentation will provide practical solutions to improve student success in the digital classroom.

Learning Objectives:

•    Identify Key Challenges in Online Learning – Recognize common engagement barriers faced by accounting students in virtual environments and explore strategies to overcome them.
•    Implement Interactive Teaching Strategies – Apply innovative teaching methods, including active learning techniques, real-world case studies, and problem-solving activities, to foster student participation and deeper learning.
•    Leverage Technology Tools for Engagement – Explore and integrate digital tools such as discussion forums, video conferencing, collaborative platforms, and adaptive learning software to create dynamic online courses.
•    Enhance Student Motivation Through Gamification – Understand the principles of gamification and apply techniques such as quizzes, leaderboards, and interactive challenges to boost student motivation and engagement.
•    Assess Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes – Implement formative and summative assessment methods to measure student participation, comprehension, and overall success in an online setting.
•    Apply Best Practices for Online Course Management – Optimize course structure, communication strategies, and student support mechanisms to create an inclusive and effective online learning experience.

As we wrap up a full day of engaging discussions, we’ll close with interactive multi-state breakout rooms, where you can connect with colleagues in smaller groups. This is a great way to reflect on what resonated most, exchange perspectives, and discuss how to implement new strategies effectively. Whether it’s leveraging technology in the classroom, enhancing student engagement, or navigating changes in accounting education standards, this session will equip you with valuable tools to drive success in your teaching and curriculum development.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will actively connect with peers in small breakout rooms to build relationships and work together.
•    Participants will share insights and brainstorm innovative ideas within their breakout groups.