How can the full breadth of information and communication technologies (ICTs) be utilized in achieving a learning environment that offers optimal learning opportunities?  Are ICTs the best educational investment?  Might it better to invest in known teacher aids like textbooks, chalkboards, or basic school supplies or do new technology options, like eBooks, smart boards, or laptops really offer a paradigm shift in educational efficiency?

These and many other topics are the subject of discussion in this new website (http://edutechdebate.org/) resulting from a partnership between infoDev and UNESCO. This initiative aims to stimulate conversation around low-cost information and communication technology (ICT) devices intended for educational use in developing countries and how they are relevant to the very groups they purport to serve – the students, teachers, and their surrounding communities.

This website aims to create an open public debate on how best to serve the educational community in developing countries. It will feature a different topic for debate each month, with two people staking out contrasting positions to help guide the discussion.  All stakeholders are welcome to join the debate by posting comments or links to case study examples. You just need to register.

The Education Technology Debate initiative (ETD) was officially launched at the UN's World Summit on the Information Society event in Geneva (WSIS Forum 2009, May 18-22).

Join the DEBATE !

Become a part of the conversation. Contribute your ideas, strategies and expertise to our discussions. Join Now

BECOME A PARTNER

Both infoDev and UNESCO welcome new partners to expand the discussion and dissemination of the knowledge we will share and discover through this open process.

If your organization is interested in joining, please contact us.