I thought there would be more teachers at the conference, but it seemed it was more leaders, like headteachers. I think teachers also need a support network of others like them when they are using new technology. The teachers I met at the conference are now giving me help and advice about the trivial things that us teachers worry about. The trouble I have found is how to find other teachers like me to share ideas and moans with!
Gerry, Last year I ran a breakout session entitled "What's in it for me ?" - a teacher's perspective, outlining how I've used handheld computers to help me teach and organise my teaching & admin. Sadly, as I was too busy to write the brief soon enough, the option to run an update couldn't be fittedinto the conference schedule - maybe next year !
Last year's session was only attended by 3 people, partly due to it being at the same time as our charismatic keynote speaker, and partly due to the factors you mentioned (not many actual teachers there ?)
I can send you the powerpoint presentation of last year's session, if that would help, but it would miss the conversations we had. Contact me at hhc@galena.org.uk, if you'd like it.
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« October 25, 2006, 06:43:21 PM »
Hi Both,
Just another perspective... as you know we had a large presence at the conference....
Of our team of 13 delegates 5 were lead teachers.
2 lead teachers delivered workshops on Day 1. Both workshops were standing room only with over 120 delegates crammed in to the break out room.
I agree we need input from practitioners..... the above comment proves it..... BUT we do need the bigger picture too.....
I felt that the conference was quite well balanced....and thanks to the e learning foundation for offering reduced places for practitioners who were involved in projects.... Well done!!
As more projects are developed in 2007 maybe there will be more practitioners in 2007....
I think there are some good points made about practitioners, absent or otherwise, here.
As a consequence of the efforts of the e-Learning Foundation and Specialist Schools and Academies Trust there were probably more practitioners attending than you might have realised but indeed it will be good to see levels rise. However at this fairly early stage it is important to get those that control the purse strings, the heads and other leaders engaged so that they might release practitioners for Handheld Learning 2007, or as Dave points out there will be more practititioners because there will simply be more projects and more experience to share.
As we know, it's really difficult for many practitioners to get the time off even for training let alone a conference despite being potentially vital for the updating of knowledge and skills. I can hardly think of an alternative profession from plumbers to surgeons where there is such a challenge!
At least with the availability of podcasts, presentations and discussion online some of those who were unable to attend will be able to gain access to some of the inspirational talks given and the shared knowledge.
Certainly given the level of interest it does provide food for thought with regards to our planning for HL 2007.
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