Oct 20-21, 2011

The second annual Wireless Education Technology Conference 2011 (Wireless EdTech) examined the role of mobile wireless technologies in improving 21st century education. From the opening reception on October 19 through the last breakout sessions on October 21, more than 50 speakers and 300 attendees shared their thoughts, challenges, experiences and questions surrounding mobile learning.

The United States has an opportunity to reform education in a way that will truly prepare our students to compete in the global economy. Mobile technology has a critical role to play in this effort by equipping students and teachers with 24/7 access to learning communities and information, as well as by fostering informal learning.

Wireless EdTech 2011 was designed to specifically advance the dialogue about research, policy and practice and to foster new discussions among a diverse group of stakeholders including leaders in business, K-12, higher education and government. Beginning in 2010, this is the first series of conferences to focus on major issues that must be resolved to realize the full potential of mobile broadband for learning.

Highlights Included:

• Margaret “Peggy” L. Johnson, executive vice president and president, Global Market Development for Qualcomm offered a fascinating vision of the 21st century classroom enhancing student learning with a blending of in-class and out-of-class experiences – augmented reality, interactive tablets, and better tools for teachers.
• James Fallows, national correspondent for The Atlantic, conducted an on-stage interview with Julius Genachowski, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, to discuss the importance of broadband, digital literacy and how mobile technology can stimulate job creation and spur U.S. competitiveness.
• James Shelton, assistant deputy director for Innovation and Improvement for the U.S. Department of Education highlighted his vision for mobile learning and how it can help improve education in the United States.
• The panel of Superintendents delivered “feet on the ground” insights on ways their schools are changing the education environment.
• Teachers presented innovative solutions, and we heard directly from a student about his experience with technology in education (based on feedback, we’ll be inviting more teachers and students to speak in the future).
• Several speakers from federal, state and local government bodies outlined differing ways they are working with educators to provide students with the latest tools for learning.
• Networking opportunities abounded during breaks and receptions, with people making new connections and collaborating on new ideas.
• Twitter conversations took off – take a look at the #edtech11 Twitter feed, especially from when the conference was in session. Lots of comments from people sharing insights on what they heard, what they learned, and what they discussed.

Related Qualcomm Links:

• Wireless Living
• Wireless Reach Education Projects

Qualcomm is: Speaking