Global forum launched to highlight importance of effective use of technology in education

Learning and Technology World Forum aims to get global agreement among policy makers of the critical value of technology in education

A new global forum, which will take place in London in early 2009, will highlight the importance of the effective application of technology in education and the resulting benefits for individuals and commerce.

The Learning and Technology World Forum is an invitation only event, and will provide a global platform for senior policy makers, including government ministers – more than 50 have confirmed their attendance – and leading educational practitioners to exchange information and evaluate current developments in technology in education to assist in the development of policy.

The forum expands upon the previously successful “Moving Young Minds” international ministerial seminar, and is expected to attract well over 500 participants from at least 60 countries, representing over two thirds of the world population. The programme includes a series of keynote sessions, formal presentations, interactive workshops and site visits to schools, colleges, museums and art galleries across London.

Stephen Crowne, Becta’s Chief Executive said:
“The Learning and Technology World Forum represents a much needed platform for debate among all those involved globally in key aspects of policy design and the application of technology within education.

“The UK Government has set out ambitious objectives for education and skills. Technology underpins all of these, and this global event will act as a catalyst to explore how collaboratively developing policy and strategy can deliver real and tangible benefits for Next Generation Learning, in the UK and worldwide.”

The Learning and Technology World Forum, hosted by Becta, in partnership with BESA (British Equipment Suppliers Association) and the British Council, takes place from 12 to 14 January 2009 at The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London, to coincide with BETT, the educational technology show at Olympia, 14-17 January. More information on the forum is available at www.latwf.org. It is being launched in partnership with the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) and the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). Major sponsors include Cisco, Intel and Microsoft.

-ENDS-

To attend the Learning and Technology World Forum or arrange interviews with ministers and speakers, please contact Betty Nwosu or Victoria Clarke on 020 7612 8843 /8816 or email betty.nwosu {at} geronimocommunications(.)com

Notes to editors

About the Learning and Technology World Forum (www.latwf.org)
The Learning and Technology World Forum is a global platform for information exchange among key policy makers and practitioners whose primary areas of focus involve the design of policy and implementation of programmes to ensure effective application of technology within education. For 2009, the event theme is “Next Generation Learning” with three sub themes covering 21st century skills, 21st century leadership and an education workforce for the 21st century.

About Becta (www.becta.org.uk)
Becta is the government agency leading the national drive to ensure the effective and innovative use of technology throughout learning. It is our ambition to utilise the benefits of technology to create a more exciting, rewarding and successful experience for learners of all ages and abilities, enabling them to achieve their potential.