NECC’s Must-See Events

Ed-tech’s biggest conference has lots to offer media specialists

By Debra Lau Whelan -- School Library Journal, 6/1/2006

For those attending the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC) in San Diego from July 5–7, there are many events you won’t want to miss. Now that conference organizers have recognized the growing importance of media specialists as technology leaders by creating a School Librarian Special Interest Group to help attendees better network, there are a bunch of programs specifically geared toward school librarians. Here’s a list of must-see events and their schedules. Check the conference catalog for locations.

Wednesday, July 5, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Teens on the Digital Fringe: What Librarians Can Do

Lesley Farmer of California State University–Long Beach explains why librarians are positioned to help disenfranchised teens gain meaningful, equitable access to technology to empower themselves.

10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Podcasting and Podcatching for the Absolute Beginner

Larry Anderson of the National Center for Technology Planning teaches how to start podcasting in your classroom.

Thursday, July 6, 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Computer Ethics: The Dark Side

Richard Lamb of the Cranbrook Educational Community explores how students think and how to help them make good decisions.

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A Web of Connections: Why the Read/Write Web Changes Everything

Will Richardson of Hunterdon Central High School talks about how our classrooms and curricula are changing as a result of a new, more dynamic, creative, and collaborative Web.

Friday, July 7, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Beyond Acceptable Use: Developing and Implementing a Plagiarism Policy

Debbie Abilock, editor of Knowledge Quest, addresses the root causes of plagiarism.

Survive and Thrive: Strategies for Leadership and Collaboration

Larry Johnson of Indiana University at Indianapolis and media specialist Annette Lamb explore practical tips for invigorating and enriching library media programs.