Join the Innovation Conversation at EduCon 2.5

Virtually attend EduCon 2.5 to engage in important discussions on the future of schools

In terms of innovating education, I think it all starts with a conversation. Today’s teachers are constantly talking about the changing landscape of education in teachers’ lounges, on Twitter, and at education conferences worldwide. I think it’s important that teachers have a place to discuss important topics like Common Core State Standards and standardized testing, which is why I’m excited for EduCon 2.5, a weekend education conference beginning Friday, Jan. 25.

At EduCon, educators come together to discuss and debate ideas about the future of schools. Important topics, such as technology standards, are at the root of each discussion session. I should note that EduCon is not a technology conference, but rather an education conference focused on innovation. Here are the guiding principles behind EduCon (as listed on its website):

1. 1. Our schools must be inquiry-driven, thoughtful and empowering for all members
2. 2. Our schools must be about co-creating - together with our students - the 21st Century Citizen
3. 3. Technology must serve pedagogy, not the other way around
4. 4. Technology must enable students to research, create, communicate, and collaborate
5. 5. 
Learning can - and must - be networked

Attending Digitally

As with past EduCons, this year’s conference will be held in Philadelphia (there’s currently a waiting list for tickets,) but you can still get in on the action by attending virtually and for free. Figures a conference centered on innovation would find a creative solution to the old conference travel conundrum. I found these directions for attending digitally from last year’s event:

1. 1. Join the EduCon website and post a short bio and photo
2. 2. Browse the Detailed Schedule and read about the conversation offerings, sketch out which sessions you would like to view. (all posted times are EST)
3. 3. Follow the streamed sessions by going to the EduCon conversation during its session
4. 4. Follow the twitter hashtag #EduCon
5. 5. Post questions, offer links and resources, from the comfort of your own living room, all throughout the weekend in the forums

Featured Conversations

To be fair, I think any one of the scheduled 79 conversations would be worth attending, but the following sessions are at the top of my list:

#standardizethat

Who: Mike Kaechele
When: Session One

“A critical look at the standardization of public schools and especially the Common Core State Standards. How do the CCSS and the associated testing effect learning, motivation, and student passions? What things should be standardized in classrooms if anything?”

Students as Teaching Resources

Who: Anastacia Brie, Grace O’Keeffe
When: Session One

“A conversation involving educators and how we can involve students in planning, implementation, and assessment within the classroom. A practical approach for educators who would like more student investment and ownership in education.”

Sequence and Consequence: Why Storytelling is Essential for Learning

Who: Gerald Aungst, Amanda Dykes
When: Session Two

The human brain is built for stories. After a brief discussion of the science and theory, we will explore several aspects of story and digital storytelling and how they intersect with schools, curriculum, and learning. Small groups will collaboratively build a Learnist board to capture and share the ideas we generate.”

Dear George: So You’ve Got $4 Billion to Give Away? We Can Help With That.

Who: Will Richardson
When: Session Three

“George Lucas wants to give the proceeds of his Star Wars to Disney sale to education. Let’s give him some advice on how to spend it.”

Conference Buzz

#EduCon has generated a lot of buzz on Twitter. Here’s what educators are saying about the event:

Let us know if you plan on attending EduCon 2.5 in-person or digitally. We’d love to join in on a discussion with you. Feel free to start your own conversation in the comments section.