As the biggest event in the edtech calendar prepares to return to London’s ExCeL, we take a look at some of the expected highlights at the 2018 event.
2018 looks set to start on a high when the first major industry event of the year returns to London on 24 January. Key themes to be covered in the newly streamlined seminar programme include AI, flipped learning, and data and analytics. With that in mind we decided to take a look at each of these issues in turn and highlight the discussion points, learning sessions and tech covering each.
Artificial Intelligence
A hot topic in 2017, it’ll be interesting to see how the AR/VR landscape has changed in 12 months and the use cases that are now available. On 26 January, BETT will see a world first in the AI field when the first project designed to teach practical concepts of Machine Learning, Deep Learning and Neural Networks at Key Stage 3 takes place in the Bett Arena. Using publicly available data sets, pupils will be invited to build a functional AI Algorithm. The session will introduce details of the project, data on how AI can be made relevant and accessible to the whole class and the next steps to take.
Looking further into the future, ‘AI, adaptive technology and the future workforce’ in the Post-16 Theatre will see McGraw-Hill Education’s President, Mark Dorman, discussing the power of AI, adaptive technology and digital learning in building the skills students need post-graduation to enable them to flourish in the world of work. Also in the Post-16 Theatre, Microsoft will sponsor a session looking at ‘Breakthroughs in artificial intelligence for 21st century learning’.
Flipped Learning
As problem-based learning continues to increase in popularity, BETT is an ideal opportunity to find out how to adapt lessons to utilise flipped learning. One session that’s sure to be informative is ‘Flipping the future – students share global perspectives’, taking place in the BETT Arena at 11.15 on 25 January.
One example of how project-based learning has been successfully implemented will be provided by Ballyclare High School in a session entitled ‘Transformative ideas for integrated blended learning.’ The school will discuss how it’s using VR, 360-degree cameras, and a combination of online and offline activities, combining tech with hands-on learning that’s embedded across the curriculum resulting in fully immersed students.
Data and Analytics
We’ve all heard about the power of Big Data and how it’s set to transform many areas of our lives. ‘Transforming assessment and tackling workload using big data and student analytics’ in the Schools Theatre on 24 January will highlight how utilising data correctly can benefit both teachers and students.
And, of course, no discussion about data can be complete without a mention of GDPR. Set to come into force next year, and still causing large amounts of confusion, the EU General Data Protection Regulation looks set to be a game changer when it comes to data protection. ‘Mountain or molehill? GDPR in perspective’ will look at the responsibilities on educators and highlight new rules that will be need to be adhered to. Meanwhile, GDPR 101 will explain all you need to know to keep your school safe and secure.
Bett 2018 runs from 24-27 January at London’s ExCeL Centre. Awe Creative will be there for the duration of the show. If you’d like to meet up at the event or require any content, marketing or design services in the run up, contact jo@beaconcreativeservices.com.
