ISTE CEO Don Knezek Addresses 'Global Imperative' for Technology in Education at ISTE 2010 Conference in Denver

DENVER, June 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Don Knezek, CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE®), opened the keynote panel, "Innovation and Excellence: Buzzwords of Global Imperative," at ISTE 2010 on Tuesday. The four-day-long gathering of education professionals is being held at the Colorado Convention Center through June 30 in Denver.  

"ISTE is recognized as the go-to organization by countries around the globe, as a critical partner in developing and implementing their education technology goals," Knezek said during his keynote.

Knezek welcomed and introduced global education enthusiasts who shared their perspectives on the relevance and importance of excellence and innovation. Jennifer Corriero, executive director and co-founder of TakingITGlobal, moderated a lively, interactive discussion with the following panelists:

• Karen Cator, director of the Office of Education Technology, US Department of Education (Washington, D.C.)
• Jean-Francois Rischard, former VP of the World Bank (Paris, France)
• Shaun Koh, student (Singapore)
• Terry Godwaldt, director of programming, Centre for Global Education (Edmonton, Calif.)

Throughout the discussion, the audience used a Twitter backchannel to ask panelists how to achieve excellence and innovation on a global scale and at the grassroots level. In answering the audience's questions, panelists discussed what innovation and excellence means for the future of global education systems, all agreeing that schools must work together in applying technology in ways that inspire students and educators.

In their final remarks, panelists encouraged educators to take several things away from ISTE 2010: Listen to their students, utilize social networks, collaborate and take action.

"ISTE members are well-positioned to push the global citizen agenda," Rischard said. "ISTE Standards are crisply articulated, and you know how to use technology as a wedge to open the door. Go for it."

About ISTE

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is the premier membership association for educators and education leaders engaged in improving teaching and learning by advancing the effective use of technology in PK-12 and teacher education. www.iste.org.

SOURCE International Society for Technology in Education