At the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC), scheduled to take place from January 14 to 17, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, educators and educational technology leaders will gather to explore innovative strategies aimed at enhancing teaching and learning experiences across various educational settings. This annual event is set to feature a diverse array of activities, including keynote speeches, informative sessions, and dynamic presentations in the exhibition hall, all focused on the evolving role of technology in education.
One of the core themes of this year’s conference will be the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into educational practices. Among the scheduled sessions is “Best Practices for an AI Infused Classroom,” which will delve into the intricate characteristics of various Large Language Models (LLMs) and how they can be effectively utilised in educational contexts. This session, taking place on January 15 at 11:00 a.m. in South 320GH, emphasises the need to not only use AI but to understand its strengths and limitations, thereby enabling educators to customise learning experiences and nurture critical thinking in students.
Another critical session, “Esports: Gateway to Careers in Arts, Media and Entertainment,” will highlight the potential career pathways that esports can open for students. Set for January 15 at 12:00 p.m. in South 230H, this session aims to enlighten educators about the similarities between esports skills and career opportunities in live event production, media production, and marketing, establishing esports as more than just a competitive activity.
In addition to AI and esports, the conference will feature a session titled “E-rate & Edtech Funding: Essential Insights for Educators” on January 16 at 1:30 p.m. in South 230B. It is intended to equip educational leaders with the latest funding insights and developments in E-rate policies, aiming to demystify complex funding challenges and provide actionable strategies to successfully navigate the educational funding landscape.
For those in leadership roles, the “Tech Leadership Challenge: Mastering the Deck of Edtech Dilemmas” session promises an interactive format for K-12 Edtech leaders to collaboratively address pressing issues, such as cybersecurity threats and funding uncertainties. This session is scheduled for January 17 at 11:00 a.m. in South 230H.
The topic of ethical AI implementation will also be addressed in a session titled “Inclusive Innovation: Leaning into Ethical and Equitable AI Solutions,” which will run on January 17 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in South 230H. This session aims to foster discussions around equitable approaches to AI in education, focusing on strategies to address bias and enhance transparency in AI-driven educational tools.
Prominent keynote speakers will also grace the conference. Guy Kawasaki will launch the event with his keynote, "How to Help People Be Remarkable," on January 15 at 1:00 p.m., setting the tone for the discussions to follow. Dr. Sabba Quidwai is set to present “From Classroom to Creator: Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow” on January 16 at 8:30 a.m., envisioning a future where students take on leadership roles driven by AI innovations. The conference will conclude with “TECHShare Live!” on January 17 at 1:00 p.m., featuring discussions led by Leslie Fisher, Dr. Adam Phyall III, and Dave Bellow, showcasing the transformative potential of technology in education.
Additional highlights of FETC 2025 include the Mobile Mega Share event, which encourages collaborative learning among attendees, and the inaugural Safety & Security Technologies Summit, focusing on innovative solutions for enhancing school safety through technology. Furthermore, Mega Sessions and Leadership Roundtables will provide in-depth discussions on relevant edtech topics, ensuring that attendees are equipped with the latest knowledge and practical solutions to adapt to the constantly evolving educational landscape.
The FETC promises to be a significant event in the educational calendar, forging connections among leaders and educators while highlighting the future possibilities inherent in technology and education.
Source: Noah Wire Services