Illinois State’s passionate teacher candidates and educators are invited to participate in a free conference November 5 that brings the world of educational technology to the Bone Student Center (BSC). Registration is still open, but time is running out!
Why T21Con?
It is no secret that PreK–12 students communicate and learn through technologies that were unavailable decades, or even years, ago. These changes have had direct effects on how teachers connect with students and facilitate learning. Educators not only need to have knowledge of available technologies but also must understand how and why these tools will be effective in their classrooms.
To help educators meet this challenge, two career educators Mary F. English ’68 and Robert J. English ’66, M.B.A. ’67, decided to fund the first T21Con in 2010. The event is also co-sponsored by the College of Education and the Student Council for Exceptional Children (SCEC).
What goes on at T21Con?
Just like the educational technologies it presents to attendees, T21Con’s offerings have evolved over the years. However, the goal remains to deliver an engaging and meaningful experience that provides attendees with the confidence and competencies to utilize emerging technologies in their classrooms.
The day will begin with a keynote presentation by David Jakes, an internationally sought-after speaker and thought leader on the use of educational technology. Jakes’ presentation has two parts. He first offers attendees a look into the ways technology tools and trends are reshaping what it means to be a learner in the 21st century. He then shares how new and emerging technologies can be used to create compelling learning experiences for PreK–12 students.
The conference offers a diverse array of breakout sessions. From interactive learning with Google and iPads to advice on starting a 1:1 technology initiative, attendees can choose from intriguing topics that are relevant to their area of education. Sessions are hosted by educational technologists that include professional PreK–12 teachers, school administrators, and published experts in the field.
“The presenters were energizing,” said Jessica Strelak ’13, who attended the 2012 conference. “Although we were learning about and using some of the technologies for the first time, the way they presented the technology sparked creativity.”
T21Con will also feature exhibits from vendors such as Dell, Lenovo, and Microsoft that represent the latest and greatest in educational technology. Through their interactions with exhibit and session presenters, attendees gain invaluable networking opportunities as they prepare to embark on a career in education.
Not to be forgotten, T21Con always offers great giveaways including iPads, game systems, and more!
Event details
Date: Tuesday, November 5
Time: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Location: Bone Student Center
Registration: Free and open to teacher education students, educators, and university faculty and staff
