By Mini Swamy, TMCnet Contributor
The International Society for Technology in Education is holding a conference for education professionals from around the world, which is being held through June 30, 2010, at the Colorado Convention Center.
Helen Padgett, president of the International Society for Technology in Education, ISTE, delivered the opening address before a packed auditorium. Kindling the audience with an inspirational speech, Padgett referred to them as explorers, pioneers and visionary educators, who had the passion and patience to transform the face of education. She praised their desire to explore new avenues for learning and teaching, and the skill and expertise that they exhibited on the classroom. She further added that it was their unwavering focus on the educational needs of the children that has succeeded in making the difference. A former K-12 teacher and administrator with a passion for seamlessly integrating technology into education, Padgett went on to describe the impact that ISTE’s global expansion had. What served to unite all nations crossing the barriers of religion, culture and politics was the common denominatorensuring the future well-being of children. The national Educational Technology Standards, NETS, for Students and its expansion across the globe was advocated by Padgett. This would help students prepare to work, live and contribute to the communities that they owed so much to. As foundational ICT skills penetrate throughout our society, students will be expected to apply the basics in authentic, integrated ways to solve problems, complete projects, and creatively extend their abilities. NETS would help students learn effectively and live productively in the emerging global society. ISTE’s ongoing efforts in the realm of education advocacy, and the launch of ISTE learning, and online learning community and professional development marketplace was also mentioned.”I’ve said that ISTE members have global reach and local impact. Those aren’t hollow words,” Padgett said. Justifying her statement, Padgett said that with ISTE serving as a connector, convener and facilitator, a global community of educators was formed, a set of educators, who believed that action, and not mere words about technology improving education, was the only thing that really spoke. Padgett’s address included the presentation of the Outstanding Young Educator Award and the Public Policy Advocate of the Year Award and the recognition of several dedicated individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions to the ISTE 2010 conference. The International Society for Technology in Education is the premier membership association for educators and education leaders engaged in improving teaching and learning by advancing the effective use of technology in K-12 and teacher education.
Mini Swamy is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.
Edited by Juliana Kenny
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