Mini-Conference Descriptions
1. Project Based Learning
In Wisconsin some of our Project Based Learning schools are
national models. Many schools now want to adopt an educational
model that incorporates Project Based Learning. The sad fact is
many educators do not understand how to make Project Based learning
work. Certainly, it is not for every student, but this approach
works for many students—both at the high end, students bored by the
traditional school model and for at risk kids, who without Project
Based learning would probably not be in school at all. This is an
exciting and challenging model.
Our mini conference team includes the very best award winning
school leaders and advisors of Project Based Schools in
Wisconsin.
2. Digital Technology, Games and Learning
Everyone knows digital technology is transforming education in
the United States. Many traditional educations fear it as an
intrusion into the teacher centric model of schooling. Actually,
there is nothing to fear. This mini conference will show you how to
incorporate cutting edge technologies into education.
Our mini conference team includes James Gee, the national leader in
this arena as well as the leaders of Games, Learning and Society,
from the UW, School of Education. This is the “A” team in the
United States working on educational technology. It is not only
interesting, it is down right fun.
3. Innovative Teaching
Great teachers will never be replaced by technology. They are
and will continue to be the single best indicators of school
performance. Great teachers keep pushing the limits and thinking
outside the box. What we are talking about in this mini conference
is how to educate kids—not just school them. This means preparing
them to be constructive citizens as well as people who will live
lives of deep and lasting quality.
Our mini conference team brings you passionate teachers and teacher
educators who will not only inspire you but challenge you.
4. School Performance
No issue in the United States is more controversial than
“school performance.” What actually does this mean and what defines
the difference between schools that perform and those that don’t?
Is the difference the educational method? Are performing schools
different in the inner city than in the suburbs? Do performing
schools have something in common deeper and more important than
their regional and pedagogical differences? You may be surprised by
the answers.
Our mini conference team brings you school leaders with absolutely
stunning performance, a district superintendent with a Silicon
Valley approach to education and the person who literally wrote the
book on school performance in Wisconsin.
5. Charter School Governance and Business
Operating a Charter School is the hardest job in the world—but
possibly the most rewarding. How do you start a school? What is a
real Charter School? How do you create an effective Governing
Council? How do you attract resources? The questions are endless.
Well, we have all the answers.
Our mini conference team, sponsored by DPI includes experts in
every aspect of creating and operating a successful Charter
School.
