NECC 2008

The Vendor Floor was “overwhelming” in many aspects. There is a lot of repetition in the hardware and software industry vying for educational dollars. While going through I could notice how important “marketing” plays in what “we” as educators see as beneficial. The Promethean, BrainPop, Sunburst, etc… booths were massive and eye catching. For me, I enjoy the “little” guy and sometimes the simplistic nature of what they have to offer. However, at the NECC I found myself disappointed in what the “little” guy had to offer. As educators we must keep an open mind to what is truly beneficial for our students. In this day and age, students demand “engaging” activities and for the most part the bigger vendors deliver. The best product however, is only as great as the person implementing it.

I was not wowed by any emerging technology at the conference, but I was “wowed” with how companies and educators were using some of the existing Web 2.0 technologies (Podcasting, Wikis, Google Earth, etc.)  to look at education through a different light. I “truly” believe we are seeing a significant shift in education, but if not built on a solid pedagogy it will crumble. The group that went to NECC has a different perspective and specialty area that allows for a tremendous amount of discussion. I am looking forward to seeing everyone’s ideas and thoughts.