For the second time in two months, I’m traveling south to Austin for an education conference. Given the snowstorm we received last weekend, I certainly welcome any and all opportunities to escape a snow-covered Madison in March. This time I’m attending SXSWedu, the second annual education event connected to the film, music and interactive conference known as South by Southwest (SXSW).
Like other SXSW festivals, SXSWedu seeks to convene a wide variety of stakeholders who share an interest in 21st century innovation and best practices. Attendees include not only education professionals such as teachers, administrators and professors, but also business, industry and policy leaders who share a keen interest in modernizing teaching and learning.
According to the Austin American-Statesman, SXSWedu is on track to double participation this year, with more than 1,600 people registered to attend. Keynote speakers include U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan and LeVar Burton from the children’s television show “Reading Rainbow.” SXSWedu is expanding its focus nationwide and doubling the number of concurrent sessions.
I look forward to checking out these sessions in particular:
Tuesday, March 6th, 10:15-11:15 AM
School 2.0: Teachers and the Future of Education
Featuring Steve Hargadon, Classroom 2.0
Wednesday, March 7th, 3:15-4:15 PM
Education and Technology: Now and in the Future
Featuring Kevin Hogan, Tech & Learning Media Group
Thursday, March 8th, 10:15-11:15 AM
Edtech Reporting and Why It Sucks and How to Fix It
Featuring Audrey Watters, Hack Education, Betsy Corcoran, EdSurge, Frank Catalano, Intrinsic Strategy, Lisa Wolfe, L. Wolfe Communications
When I return, I’ll be sure to share a few highlights from these sessions with those of you unable to attend. In the meantime, be sure to follow the hashtag #SXSWedu on Twitter for live updates from the conference this week.