The Coalition of Lighthouse Schools

Student communication has changed through the years, and the tools and methods that they employ can have an important impact in the classroom. This three–part keynote includes a reflection on the past and the present as well as a look at the student communication tools we may see in the future. It is those tools that will enable students to successfully connect and collaborate globally both in school and in the workplace.

MARK S. BENNO, PH.D. is an Education Development Executive for Apple Computer in Florida. In this role he helps people to envision and develop effective technology integration programs. He likes to challenge people to exceed their dreams; professional development is his passion. Most of his work over the past fourteen years has been in faculty development (for educators of students in preschool - graduate school). Among other places, he has worked at Nolan Middle School in Killeen ISD in Texas, Hillcrest PDS, a professional development school for Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and Tech4Learning in San Diego.

As a speaker, Mark addresses educators nationwide on the future of technology and education and how students today impact our educational systems. He also leads workshops that explore curriculum integration, technology planning, film production in the classroom, digital photography, clay animation, and video conferencing applications for grades K - 12. He has delivered keynotes in 35 states, Australia and New Zealand.

Mark completed his Ph.D. in technology and teacher education, with a minor in curriculum and instruction, at Mississippi State University in 2000. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator from the class of ’99 and is writing his third book. Mark is also past president of the Texas Association for Educational Technology (TAET).