The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is about to celebrate its 30th anniversary by hosting the 2009 National Educational Computing Conference (NECC) in Washington, D.C. This milestone conference comes at an exciting time, with a national focus on improving education and leveraging technology to inspire creativity and innovation in learning.
NECC 2009 is set to be a transformative event for educators, administrators, and technology enthusiasts. With nearly 13,000 attendees and over 500 exhibitors, it can feel overwhelming. However, the goal of the event isn’t just to marvel at the latest tech but to explore how these tools can enhance teaching and learning for students. Here’s how you can make the most of your NECC experience.
1. Plan with Purpose
To navigate the expansive agenda, start by defining a focus area that aligns with your professional interests or goals. Spend time reviewing the program schedule in advance, prioritizing sessions, workshops, and exhibits that match your chosen theme. Whether you’re exploring innovative teaching strategies, new tech tools, or equity in education, a clear focus will help you maximize your time.
Bring a device for note-taking, accessing online materials, or live-tweeting insights. While laptops are still popular, smartphones like iPhones are increasingly becoming the go-to device for quick engagement and connectivity during the conference.
2. Connect and Collaborate
Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of NECC. Take advantage of opportunities to engage with fellow educators, both in-person and online. ISTE’s online community is a great place to start, offering forums to connect before, during, and after the conference.
Don’t miss informal events like Edubloggercon on June 27, an “unconference” featuring interactive discussions and live-streamed sessions via platforms like Ustream. Similarly, the NECC Unplugged sessions in the Blogger’s Café provide casual settings for sharing ideas and connecting with other attendees.
3. Participate Virtually
Can’t attend NECC in person? No problem! Many presenters share materials online, and some even stream their sessions live. You can also follow conference updates in real-time through blogs, Twitter, and photo-sharing platforms.
Use hashtags like #NECC, #NECC2009, or #NECC09 on Twitter to join the conversation and discover valuable insights. Tools like Technorati and Flickr can help you find blog posts and photos tagged with these keywords, offering a virtual window into the conference experience.
4. Enrich the Experience with Local Insights
Enhance your trip to Washington, D.C., by exploring its rich history and culture. A little pre-conference research can make your visit even more memorable. Look for podcasts, audiobooks, or videos related to D.C. attractions or history. Platforms like iTunes offer a variety of free and paid resources to immerse yourself in the city’s stories before you arrive.
Here are a few resources to consider:
- Historical Podcasts: Dive into the stories behind D.C.’s monuments and museums.
- Audiobooks for Family Travel: Bring along engaging stories for younger travelers, such as A Cricket in Times Square.
- Cultural Videos: Watch travel or documentary episodes to familiarize yourself with the city.
5. Share Your Experience
NECC isn’t just about learning—it’s about contributing. Whether you’re attending workshops, visiting the exhibitor booths, or exploring new tools, share your insights with your colleagues and the wider educational community. Post blog updates, tweet your favorite takeaways, or share photos that capture the energy and inspiration of the event.
If you’re visiting the conference, stop by the Google booth or join the “Podcasting and Podcatching for the Absolute Beginner” panel to connect with fellow educators.