TEDDIY Talk: A Vision For 21st Century Learning - Palm Springs, CA 2/6/2009

I had the distinct privilege of attending TED@Palm Springs last week. TED changed my life in 2008, and I feel fortunate to not only have been able to attend a second straight year, but also to be invited to present at the first-ever TEDDIY session this morning. I was one of twelve distinguished speakers and everyone had a great “idea worth spreading.” While it should be uploaded to the ted.com site in the coming days/weeks, it was promoted on the TED blog today: http://blog.ted.com/2009/02/friday_mornings.php The economy has forced a “recalibration” of our venture, and I have been speechless by the outpouring of support and assistance from fellow TEDizens, including the man behind the documentary sensation, “Supersize Me.” Morgan, thank you for your interest and for believing in my vision for educating our children. My sincere thanks to Dave Shapiro Enterprises in Atlanta, Georgia, who produced the video, and also DaddyO and the Fuzebox team for their unwavering support of the project and preparation of the audio mix for the 2-minute piece. The economy has only strengthened our resolve in bringing engaging learning tools for today’s students. As goes the famous quote: "If you have a great idea, do it; if you don't do it, it doesn't exist."

Hello world!

Welcome to my first blog!  After the wonderful reception I experienced during my TED 2009 presentation, it became clear that I should start a blog that would allow a stimulating, provocative and multidimensional look at how to reinvent our education system.  But not only here, but for students around the world. It's time that we start a meaningful dialogue with actionable steps that will benefit our children.  I look to my friends at the Innosight Institute, to my friend Merrilea Mayo at the Kauffman Foundation, and many other experts who have been at the forefront of thought leadership in how to move towards student-centered learning and also use games as a media form to effectuate successful learning outcomes. Stay tuned as I look to explore many of these areas in this blog, and hope to receive many good suggestions and insights from you, the community at large.  Everyone's suggestions are welcomed. Happy blogging!