FETC 2024: Harnessing the Future of Educational Technology

The Future of Educational Technology Conference (FETC), a crucial event in the global educational calendar, is set to take place in Orlando from January 23-26, 2024. The conference, previously hosted in the vibrant city of New Orleans, will now grace the halls of the Orange County Convention Center, a venue known for its expansive space of over 7 million square feet, earning it the title of the second-largest convention center in the United States.

Conference Highlights

The conference is designed to cater to a diverse audience, ranging from IT specialists and educators to instructional coaches and school leadership. The event features a rich array of sessions, poster presentations, and playgrounds, with each activity meticulously planned to provide a unique learning experience. The FETC website and mobile app are available to attendees for reviewing sessions in advance and staying updated on the event's happenings. Social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn also serve as valuable channels for real-time updates.

A Glimpse into the Expo Hall

A significant highlight of the conference is the Expo Hall. This section provides attendees with a golden opportunity to interact with representatives from various educational and technology companies. One such company attending the conference is Encore Data Products. Known for supplying classroom equipment and tools for remote learning, the company offers a range of products, from school headphones and webcams to charging stations. They are also set to unveil the Cyber Acoustics CA Essential Webcam Flex, a promising addition to their impressive product line.

Exploring Orlando

Beyond the enriching sessions and insightful discussions, attendees are encouraged to explore the vibrant city of Orlando. Known for its thrilling theme parks, bustling tourism, and a diverse food scene, the city promises an exciting experience to all visitors. Moreover, several attractions are conveniently located within a 15-minute radius of the convention center, making them easily accessible to attendees.

Immersive Workshop

One of the conference's anticipated workshops will be led by Andrea Calvin (Vice President, FableVision Learning), Elizabeth Rowe (Senior Researcher, TERC), and David Smith (Instructional Technology Specialist, Orange County Library System). This workshop, scheduled for January 23, will introduce participants to computational thinking skills and gameplay through the Zoombinis Club. The aim is to demonstrate that computational thinking can be engaging and fun, thereby encouraging its adoption in libraries and informal programs.