Educators, researchers and digital learning specialists were given the ‘red carpet’ treatment at Waterside last week during their biggest annual event.
Education professionals from across the UK gathered at the University of Northampton for the Technology Pedagogy Education Association (TPEA) Annual Conference on 25 June.
The conference, titled ‘Facing the Future: Are We Ready for Change Now?’, explored how the education sector can respond to rapid technological change.
The agenda focused on key issues including artificial intelligence in education, digital skills, computing in the curriculum, assistive technology, digital equity, emerging technologies and hot topics like the recent social media ban for under 16s.
This year’s event also marked a significant milestone, celebrating 40 years since the organisation was founded as the Association for Information Technology in Teacher Education (ITTE) before becoming TPEA.
Dr Elizabeth Hidson (pictured), Chair of TPEA praised the University of Northampton as the host venue: “The vibe is great in Northampton,” she said. “We are quite a professional but relaxed association, and this environment has really suited us.
“It’s a wonderful campus, it feels like a learning community, and with the lovely green spaces here, it’s professionally uplifting.”
“Northampton is well connected and right in the middle of the country, which makes it easier for delegates to attend.”
Throughout the day, delegates discussed the impact of emerging technologies and current policy developments, including the role of social media and digital literacy among young people.
Dr Hidson said the association remains committed to advancing technology-enhanced teaching and learning at all stages of education.
“We are literally interested in anything to do with technology in any form of teaching or learning education,” she said. “It can go from working with physical devices with two-year-olds, up to distance learning anywhere in the world.”
The conference concluded with celebrations of TPEA’s 40-year history, including a commemorative cake and recognition of long-standing contributors in the field of computing and digital education.
Dr Helen Caldwell, Associate Professor of Education at the University of Northampton and National Executive Committee Officer for TPEA, said: “It has been a real privilege to welcome colleagues from across the UK and Europe to the University of Northampton as we celebrate 40 years of TPEA. The conference has brought together researchers and teachers to explore how technology can support inclusive and impactful teaching and learning.”
University of Northampton has a range of conference and major meeting services available for event organisers, including the Sunley Hotel which is situated at Waterside Campus. If you are looking for a venue for a conference, meeting or event, please visit the University’s Conference and Facilities webpage.