The technology giants have, almost since the common public starting using technology, been major contributors to creative innovations for education. Looking back we see the presence of Apple computers given at low-balled prices to schools, the use of Microsoft productivity suites on college campuses, and now the increased prominence of Google Apps filling a similar productivity role. Often, these contributions go beyond the material (or present but immaterial, as with software) and bring in the thoughts, ideas, and background of experienced innovators in the technology fields. Continuing in that tradition, Bing is now participating in the TEDActive Education Project.
The TEDActive Education Project, sponsored by TED-ED, is a think tank bringing together leaders from various industries to discuss how education can be improved, and how core issues can be addressed. A statement from TED-ED elaborated both on the motivation and potential subject-matter to be discussed: “Many of us in the group believe that education needs to be improved but we question at what level should we attack this problem. Should we address it at a student, teacher, principal, district or systemic level?” Other issues which are likely to play into the conference include what entry-points can be used for effective change, how to create an improved learning experience for students, the role of the web on the teaching process, what defines “ideal learning,” and more.
The think tank is cooperatively hosted by TED-ED and Bing, especially through their REDU project. TED-ED is an extension of the TED (Technology Entertainment and Design) Conference, a broader event designed to discuss innovation in general technology fields. TED and TED-ED are curated by the Sapling Foundation, an American NPO. Both the education panel and the TED event are currently taking place in Long Beach, California. Those interested in following the discussion as it happens can look to the #TEDActiveEDU hashtag on Twitter. Full videos will, assuming TED’s tradition of public availability extends into this new division, be available on the web in the coming months.
[via the Bing Blog and TEDActive]
