Education Leadership: Will Richardson at TEDxMelbourne

Will Richardson has spent the past decade thinking and writing about how emerging web technologies can be best used in classrooms and schools. Called 'a trendsetter in education' by The New York Times, Will is author of the bestselling book Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms, and has spoken to tens of thousands of educators in more than a dozen countries about the value of online learning networks.

Last month, in the middle of a cold Melbourne winter, we hosted a free event in the State Library of Victoria's Experimedia room -- a distinctive space where 19th-century grandeur meets 21st-century digital technology in a spacious bluestone-walled courtyard. Around 250 educators came together to explore the theme of Education Leadership.

The attendees were encouraged to start thinking about how they can work together rather than in isolation within their own classrooms. The event focused on the changing nature of education and how technology can shape the future of learning which each of the speakers speaking passionately about their areas of expertise.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

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[Rick Wippler]

good content....the big question is will and can educators shift?

[professorcookie]

Just saw him at the TCDSB 21Century Conference. Articulate, clear and does not posture. Inspirational.

[Maureen Devlin]

Awesome. Inspirational. So glad I had the chance to listen to Richardson's talk.

[Funandconsciousness]

Well assessed and articulated. I'm 64. I grew up as a learner, and have never stopped. I believe my teachers - most of them - were active learners as well. It's the administrators and politicians that have generally seemed to lag behind reality. That's sad, but as Will says, we can have relevant conversations about this if those who think they hold the power of decision will wake up and realize that we ALL have the power. Just look at the kids - of any age - who jump right in and use it!

[ColoredIceberg]

Who recorded this? The sound quality isn't too good...