Why Educational Technology is Important

Technology is no longer a feature of technical interest; rather it is a cornerstone that is transforming education as we know it. Now more than ever before, our classrooms and lecture halls are becoming data-driven environments that are changing students before our very eyes. Ohio's P-20 education must prepare students who are capable of competing in the global economy of tomorrow.

While research has shown the average student interacts with media between six and seven hours a day, studies show their educators do not. The use of educational technology ensures that students learn skills needed for the 21st century workplace – communication, collaboration and creativity – and learn how to employ those 21st century skills using the same technologies they will use on their future jobs. This in turn challenges educators to "keep pace" in an evolving technological world.

About the 2010 Ohio Educational Technology Conference

The State of Ohio recognizes professional development is the most powerful tool used to successfully integrate technology in the classroom. In response to the growing need for professional development, eTech Ohio is hosting the 2010 Ohio Educational Technology Conference -- an idea factory for P-20 education.

P-20 Conversations: Shaping a Path for the 21st Century Student

This year's theme P-20 Conversations: Shaping a Path for the 21st Century Student will address the need to integrate technology throughout a student's career. That is why eTech Ohio is collaborating with the Ohio Learning Network (OLN). Our desire for this P-20 Conference is to foster access to new technology, engage participants in understanding why these technologies are important and progress Ohio's education spectrum.

This engaging Conference promises to offer something for everyone. Features will include renowned keynote and featured speaker sessions, peer-to-peer multi-strand sessions, interactive displays, a dedicated assistive technology area and an exhibit hall featuring over 200 emerging technology services. With over 450 sessions and displays, 250 vendors and 6,000 participants, this is the state's educational technology convention.

Today's technology is opening up a world of new ways to solve challenges that were simply impossible in the past. Technology is exciting, and offers new ideas and applications occurring at a pace that can make it difficult to keep up. That's why attendees of the Ohio Educational Technology Conference have found this Conference to be so valuable. This is the chance to discover the latest educational technology in a hands-on environment, learn from industry experts, and network with your peers from around the state.