Bluffton learning symposium gratifying for organizers

The successful 21st Century Learning Symposium held at Bluffton School on Jan. 30 provided much pleasure for Nolan Krauss and Jay Cottell. The two, Bluffton School’s principal and learning technologies consultant respectively, spent a significant amount of time organizing the symposium, that attracted nearly 200 teachers, principals and support staff from all around the province.

What was initially organized as a small event for 50 to 60 people, quickly became one of 2012’s most highly anticipated symposiums among the staff of schools in central Alberta and beyond.

While he was able to breathe a sigh of relief at the end of the day, Krauss admits he had doubts as to whether people would make their way to the school, located in the small hamlet of Bluffton just north of Rimbey.

“We were a little overwhelmed by the turnout and the sheer number of people that came out,” said Krauss. “The initial idea was to put on a small symposium; we were expecting a good turnout but to actually see the people come through the door was exciting. Thankfully the day went well and all the technology worked the way it should. It sounds like people were very happy with the day.”

A number of presentations took place throughout the course of the symposium, and highlighted the benefits of incorporating technology into the classroom environment — something that many schools, including Bluffton, are already doing.

“In our school, we’ve been running with laptops for five years and since last year, students have been able to bring in their own devices and connect to our network,” said Krauss.

“Students have full access to our network and have printer capability, so they’re able to connect in the same way they would with school equipment.”

“We’re moving at a fast pace in some of our schools and others are hoping to catch up, so we’re trying to help those that are still in their infancy stages when it comes to technology.”

According to Cottell, the number of students who embrace the school’s open approach to technology has been overwhelming, and has resulted in positive feedback from both parents and students.

“The tech department ran an audit to see how many devices are connected, and they thought there would be around 30 to 40. The actual number turned out to be around 400, so we’re letting kids use the technology they want to use and it makes the world of difference,” he said.

While there have been no objections to incorporating technology into the classroom, Krauss and Cottell acknowledge some students may not be able to afford to purchase certain electronic devices. They assure, however, this will not hinder their ability to access the same technology being used by other students.

“We’ve got a bank of laptops that we provide for students who can’t afford their own,” said Krauss. “We don’t want anyone being singled out in those cases.”