Tech conference to attract educators from around region

More than 100 educators from Southeast Missouri will gather today in Cape Girardeau to share and learn new ideas about using technology in the classroom.

The Southeast Educational Technology Conference, sponsored by the Southeast Regional Professional Development Center on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University, will feature guest speakers, breakout sessions and opportunities for teachers to share lesson plans using technologies that have been successful in their classrooms.

The day will begin with a keynote address by Corwin Press author Harry Dickens. The national speaker and author of the "Apps for Learning" series will discuss mobile technology to increase student engagement.

Following Dickens' speech will be breakout sessions; topics include "anything from Twitter, to websites, to apps for education," said Stephanie Kuper, instructional technology specialist at the center.

Two presenters with local ties will host discussions as well. Diane Gregg, assistant professor of Library Media and Instructional Technology at Georgia College and State University, will deliver one presentation. She's also a former Jackson library media specialist and principal.

The other presentation comes from Michele Carmode, technology specialist for the Bernie, Missouri, School District.

The conference also offers an opportunity for educators to learn from each other about implementing technology in the classroom. Kuper said some people attending the conference recently saw 1:1 initiatives implemented at their schools and will discuss how it's working for them and what lessons they have learned so far. The initiatives distribute iPad and convertible laptop/iPad devices to students.

Those in attendance will have opportunities throughout the day to visit vendor exhibits showcasing educational technology.

Anyone interested in attending the conference still has an opportunity to register, Kuper said. The cost is $125, and registration may be completed online at www4.semo.edu/rpdc or by visiting the registration table in the University Center the day of the event.

The conference begins at 9 a.m. and will end at 3:30 p.m.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

388 N. Henderson Ave., Cape Girardeau, MO