Conference - Day 1

Tuesday, April 1

I grabbed a quick bite for breakfast and rushed to the conference to make sure everything was in place. The entrance looked great and the program was posted at the entrance for everyone to see.



It was only yesterday that they where cutting 2 by4 boards and painting; there was massive work that needed to take place. However, no April fools here; literally hundreds of workers had worked throughout the night. This morning everything is in its place. That's just amazing.



I visited with some of the exhibitors to compare notes with our local exhibits. A lot of similarities and some interesting products.



Next, Dr. Karam, Chariman of the Board of Directors of KHDA, and Director General at KHDA gave the opening address at the conference. He said, “The opportunities that new technology brings to the classroom make this a truly exciting time to be a student. We need to remember, though, that new technology is only as good as the human being who has created it or is using it. The two elements together, technology and people, are what will bring more and more innovation to the process of learning.”

Dr. Don Knezek, CEO of ISTE, started with this quote:
It is not the strongest of the species that survives,
nor the most intelligent
It is the one that is most adaptable to change.
--Charles Darwin

He then proceeded to share the challenges facing educators:

• Study digital age learners and what engages them
• Foster creativity and inventive thinking for innovation
• Understand what tools & strategies are available
• Sustain our own learning and development
• Prepare to contribute in an increasing multicultural setting

Next, I attended a "Panel on Bridging the Digital Divide". Dr. Joyce Pittman, Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning with Technology presented the need to make sure no one is left behind, and allow students to create knowledge rather than just consume it. Hind Al Mulla, Head of Innovation for KHDA, shared some data about access across the world and focused on the need for educators "willingness" to let students have opportunity with technology integration.


The last presentation of the day was moderated by Dr. Lynn Nolan, Senior Director for Edcation Leadership, ISTE and the Panel members were: William S. Willis, Director of Technology, American School of Abu Dhabi, and Chris O'neal, Director, technology and Administrative Leadership Outreach program, Curry school of Education, University of Virginia.



After a break, dinner was served. What a feast!! The variety of the food from across the world well demonstrates the diversity of the culture in this region.



After the dinner while walking back toward the hotel, we ran into a wedding in progress. Very entertaining and lively. I have a video clip to post here soon.

Thought of the day
No matter how far apart, or culturally diverse, the technology challenges remain the same. From Doha to Dallas students, teachers, and administrators face very similar challenges. Change is difficult for digital immigrants and the digital natives strive for it.