Form a line, the internet is down «

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So what happens when 14,000 people come to an ed-tech conference about Web2.0, the wifi dies. Despite pre-registration, publication of the type of technologies being used, #necc09 wifi died a a thousand deaths before lunchtime – seriously did they think we’d all bring chalk boards or OHPs?

While problematic for the ‘line-up here’ events for the digital tourists; more importantly it killed conversations that we’re happening in the halls and lounges. ISTE promotes the event as ISTE connects; and for much of edtech communities – this is the only real value – talking to people about ideas; ways to share and experiences.

“We didn’t expect this volume” is the reply, it will come back up “its not really our problem” … the volunteers around the halls are running for cover. How on earth does anyone expect to convince anyone that the internet in education is not a black hole. Lack of power outlets, seating and now internet for ‘third space’ informal learning simply wrote off my day.

4 Responses to “Form a line, the internet is down”

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1 Andrew B. Watt June 29, 2009 at 7:17 pm

Behold, you’ve hit upon exactly my frustrations. I had a great session with lots of good info on Wikis, but I had no ability to connect to my own wiki during it.

I’ve met a lot of people here, but no one who actually had time to sit down and talk. And I’ve been running from session to session, and I’ve had a croissant today. The food issue is also a big one.

2 Gilmar Mattos June 29, 2009 at 11:26 pm

It must have been really frustrating, to say the very least. I hope I do not go through the same problem as I’ll be presenting for the very first time in a seminar here in Brazil in one of our Binational Centers in Brasilia. Honestly I don’t know how I’d manage to face this problem and find a way to improvise.

3 Anne June 30, 2009 at 5:42 am

Sadly, it’s always like this. There is no way to accommodate the masses. Capturing what is being said and being able to post it is important to me, so I bring my own USB Modem and eliminate all of the frustrations. This is my second year of bringing my own modem and it makes all the difference!

I also have learned to carry my own surge protector so that at least I can turn that lonely wall outlet into resources for six people!

4 Sad78 October 23, 2009 at 9:56 am

No longer are you describing the public option as a bureaucratic nightmare, but merely mildly inferior in a way that millions upon millions of Americans are willing to accept. ,