For EdTechies around the country, around the world, “Conference” week has finally arrived. Conference, otherwise known as ISTE is one of the largest annual international education technology conferences available for us. There are many others, a dozen large, fifty smaller, but ISTE is the conference most can’t wait for each summer.
Getting ready… My new Mobile Learning Network shirts are packed. The prizes and SWAG from vendors sent to the house for sessions and for Mobile MegaShare http://bit.ly/mobilemegashare14 are packed. My mobile devices are semi-packed. Chargers and power strip are ready for packing Thursday morning but will wait for that last charging.
My Makers supplies and hands-on materials for my Tuesday session are stowed and packed. Next my back pack, no briefcase for me with so much to carry. They’re packed light for now but will be too full… Already have session notes and paper copies of slide shares, headphones, a pen, highlighter and notepad. Finally snacks are packed. Of course there’s plenty of great food in Atlanta but packing some healthy snacks in my briefcase works for me during the very full days.
Clothes are tricky. Comfort is critical. ISTE days are long days but every evening ends with opportunities for socializing. This is really one of the best parts of ISTE. There is no reason to sit in a hotel room or eat alone. Check out the MLN and ISTE2014 Conference at a glance listings http://www.mobilelearningnetwork.org/?p=722 for evening opportunities. Which comes back to the issue of clothes and packing. Casual is absolutely fine but getting a bit dressed up in the evening happens for many.
Less than two days and close enough for a rather long drive this year, Atlanta here we come! My sessions are listed below. I’ll also be working the MLN Community Networking Fair on Saturday and the MLN Member Lounge Gathering on Sunday. Stop by and introduce yourself. I’d love to meet in person. I promise to have great SWAG (Stuff We All Get) at every session! Happy ISTE2014!
Mobile Mega Share
Friday, June 27, 2:00 pm–6:00 pm GWCC A411
Join us for a MEGA opportunity to multiply mobile learning knowledge. Share, learn and collaborate! Recommended by ISTE’s Mobile Learning Network (formerly known as SIGML)
ISTE PLN resources to help with your 1:1 implementation
Sunday, June 29, 4:15 pm–5:15 pm GWCC B312
PLN leaders (1to1, Mobile Learning, Early Learning, Independent School Educator networks) share resources and information about 1:1 programs from their PLN activities and members. Recommended by ISTE’s Independent School Educators Network (formerly known as SIGIS), Mobile Learning Network (formerly known as SIGML)
Build your world: Mobile makerspace at the Mobile Learning Playground
Monday, June 30, 9:30 am–1:00 pm GWCC Building B, Level 3 (near Room B313)
Recommended by ISTE’s Mobile Learning Network (formerly known as SIGML)
Merging mobile, makers, and science education – Birds of a Feather
Monday, June 30, 5:15 pm–6:30 pm GWCC B405
Explore and share resources for incorporating mobile learning, makerspaces and science. Spark interest using PBL, discovery, coding and building activities for collaboration and creative thinking.
ISTE Mobile Learning Network: Merging mobile with the maker movement
Tuesday, July 1, 11:45 am–12:45 pm GWCC Murphy Ballroom 1/2
Participate in hands-on making, explore mobile environments, and immerse students in nature, engineering and experiential learning. Bring innovation and fun to your STEM program! Recommended by ISTE’s Mobile Learning Network (formerly known as SIGML), Science and Technology Network (formerly known as SIGSci)