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The Gulf Comparative Education Symposium, sponsored by the Dubai School of Government and with support from the Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research,  was an educational conference that explored the intersection of the public and private in education in the GCC. In the GCES 2011 Proceedings, each paper investigates a different element of education, including educational technology tools. Keep reading for a snippet of some of our favorite ideas!

Who: Ken Volk

Says: Technology Education is More Than Just Computers

As the Outreach Manager at the Masdar Institute of Science & Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Volk takes a critical look at what Middle Eastern governments envision “technology” to mean. He argues that in this day and age, to be technology literate means much more than just knowing how to use computers. He encourages the UAE to have a wider concept of technology and for schools to embrace more materials and processes that will enable them to creatively problem solve.

What do you have to say: How would you define technology in the 21^st century?

Who: Anna Batchelder

Explores: Education 2.0: Using Social Networking Tools to Promote Teacher Professional Development in Ras Al Khaimah

Our own Anna Batchelder, CEO and co-founder of Bon Education, presents the case of the Ras al Khaimah Teachers Network and 21^st Century Teaching and Research Program to illustrate what ICT tools and social networking can do for the realm of teacher collaboration. Through a series of policy recommendations, Anna provides orientation for education stakeholders attempting to promote ICT-based education development.

Think with us: What other ways can social networking be used to enhance teaching and learning processes?

Who: John C. Weldman

Talks About: Linking Higher Education Reform to Labour Market Demand in the Gulf States: A Slippery Slope?

As mentioned in some of our previous posts, the Middle East and North Africa region has rapidly increasing youth populations. The growing numbers continue to put pressure on the education systems. Ultimately, job markets find it difficult absorbing the vast numbers of graduates that emerge each year out of university. Weldman looks at ways in which the Gulf can improve employment by catering market demands to educational supply.

Food for thought: How can technology be used to improve youth employment?

Above is just a sampling of the many ideas that  were shared at the symposium that took place March 16-17, 2011 in Ras al Khaimah, UAE.

Stay tuned for updates.

Keep Calm and Learn On,

Nora

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Image Available Under CC Licensure by stefan.erschwendner 

I’m back again for our Global EdTech Monthly Roundup! This month we take a look at global edtech news, the latest online free products that are enhancing education in emerging markets and the most recent ventures taking place across the globe. As always, comments, feedback and suggestions are always welcome!

News

The Arab Digital Expression Foundation Program (ADEF) is an organization that serves to provide a platform for digital and new media expression amongst Arab youth. Started in 2007, the ADEF offers several initiatives to engage both young professionals and young students in communication technologies in an effort to enhance “self exploration and creative expression.” The tools and resources offered by ADEF promote workforce readiness and innovation, and further help in redefining Arab youth identity with the web. The organization offers curriculum development, local workshops, Wiki development, and a two-week summer camp that will take place this year in Ismailiya, Egypt, July 10 – 25.

In an effort to give technically savvy students in India the opportunity to express their entrepreneurism, Intel is sponsoring the Intel India Embedded Challenge 2011. Last October, those interested were requested to submit a proposed technological design meant to provide a solution for a social cause. Throughout the course of the competition, contestants work to refine their prototype for the final contest, with the help of their Intel mentor. The grand prize includes funding for the implementation of the project, and a cash prize. Winners will be announced this August during a face-to-face presentation. Such a competition truly helps students reach their full potential.

Keep reading for more news on products and ventures …

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Text Message from Kareema: Can’t believe it… ya3ni totally STUCK wa la bil yed heela. No one wants the skills we got, and they are asking for all that other stuff nobody told us about : ( (

With the working age population about to explode in size, the Arab world is faced with a huge challenge—How do we employ so many young people and how do we make sure they are ready to work productively?

A call to action, the e4e “Education for Employment: Realizing Arab Youth Potential” report points out that both employers and young adults are frustrated with the status quo. Surveyed companies complain that only a third of new employees are actually equipped with the language, soft and critical thinking skills required of their jobs. Students want education institutions to provide training programs in tune with the modern workplace. As a result, there is clear need and demand for more relevant post secondary and workplace training programs in the MENA region.

On the supply side, e4e states that challenges fall into four main categories: (more…)