Edcamps are (unconferences) where educators come together to connect, discuss, and share ideas about what they're doing in their classrooms. There's no set schedule, no list of presenters, and no PowerPoint presentations. There is, however, a communal spirit and a focus on learning and collaboration.
On March 1, 2014, Mississippi hosted its first Edcamp in Jackson, MS. This was my first unconference, and I was excited to learn with such a group of forward-thinking educators. Though we didn't get the turnout we expected, the experiences we had couldn't have been scripted any better in a movie.
What I enjoyed most about Edcampjxnms was the feeling of being part of something bigger. All of us were there because we believe in the power of connected learning and the possibilities that exist in using technology to transform education.
I must thank the sponsors and all of the companies who donated door prizes and swag. We cannot thank you enough for your contributions. The list of sponsors are as follows:
- Dave Burgess
- SimpleK12.com
- CSpire Wireless
- Atomic Learning
- ASCD
- Flocabulary
- Edmodo
- ClassDojo
- WriteAboutThis and TellAboutThis
- LessonPix
- PLP Network
- Techsmith
- Krystle Rowry (krissdidit.com)
- Lemuria Bookstore
Dr. Deyamport, being new to education I had never heard of an unconference before. This seems like an awesome way to share ideas with fellow teachers about applying technology in the classroom. Judging from the slideshow, it seems like it was not only informative but also a lot of fun! I followed up with your link to The Edcamp Foundation's website and I am very impressed. Hopefully, when I begin teaching I can attend one of their unconferences. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteLarry,
DeleteThanks for stopping by and leaving a comment on my blog. Starting on Saturday I am launching Dr. Will, a weekly talk show where I will interview educators about an array of topics related to education.
Dr. Will, my name is Savannah Price, and I am a student in EDM310 at the University of South Alabama. I really enjoyed reading your post about edcamps. This sounds like a great opportunity for teachers to discuss different ways they are teaching in the classroom. I think I will definitely try to attend one of these events if I am able to when I become a teacher. I enjoyed your blog, and thank you for working towards the technological opportunities for education.
ReplyDeleteSavannah,
DeleteThanks for stopping by. I appreciate you leaving a comment and your compliment.
I enjoy what I do as an instructional technologist, and geeked about sharing what I have learned. Be on the lookout for screencast tutorials in the future.
Dr. Deyamport, I am a student at the University of Alabama and am in EDM310. Hearing about your wonderful experiences at your conference really makes me excited about being a teacher! That is a great way, for as you've said, for all the teachers who are very passionate about their profession to get together and share ideas with each other. Sounds wonderful. I really enjoyed your blog, and you are inspiring as a teachers. Not everyone now a days are as passionate and positive as you are!
ReplyDeleteJordan,
ReplyDeleteI appreciate you stopping by my blog. If you want to meet more engaging and passionate educators, go to Twitter. I am @peoplegogy on Twitter.