Flying drones and other cutting-edge equipment were showcased during a regional workshop in the Fox Chapel Area School District to prepare educators for the future and illustrate how technology can simultaneously drive learning and joy.
The Three Rivers Educational Technology Conference on Jan. 19 drew more than 600 teachers, K-12 administrators, industry experts and higher education decision-makers. The event at Dorseyville Middle School featured speakers, interactive sessions, panel discussions, a student showcase and vendor exhibits.
The day was meant to spotlight the myriad creative ways that educational technology is used, with a large focus on artificial intelligence (AI).
Sponsored by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, “Rewiring Learning: Building Bridges & Strengthening Connections” invited educators to learn strategies that are revolutionizing how knowledge is imparted and absorbed, according to the group’s website.
The keynote speaker was Jeff Remington, the STEM Outreach Liaison for the Penn State Center for Science and the Schools. Remington works to advance STEM and AI education by translating complex technical research into practical, innovative classroom applications.
Featured speakers were Eric Curts and Mike Zula.
Curts is a technology integration specialist for the Stark-Portage Area Computer Consortium in North Canton, Ohio. His expertise includes AI and Google tools.
Zula received his juris doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. His work focuses on emerging technology and community-building, along with approaches to the complex problems posed by emerging technologies.