What to See at Educause 2018

Here's how to make the most of your time at Educause this month in Denver.

Colorado Convention Center

Colorado Convention Center (photo.ua / Shutterstock.com)

The Educause Annual Conference (Oct. 30-Nov. 2) offers something for everyone: There are program tracks focused on data-informed decision-making, IT infrastructure, teaching and learning, IT leadership and more. But if you are more of a generalist, interested in all kinds of technology use in higher education, there are some tough choices to make in terms of which sessions to attend. Here are our top picks for a conference schedule that hits key topics and trends in higher ed IT.

Demystifying AI and Predictive Analytics in Higher Ed
In this panel discussion, experts from both academia and industry offer their insights into artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, including benefits vs. hype, ethical issues and what to expect down the road.

Applying Mixed Reality to the Classroom of the Future
Learn how Case Western Reserve University is implementing immersive, augmented reality/mixed reality educational resources in several different contexts.

The Future of Higher Education: Our Response to Disruption
James Phelps of the University of Washington explores the trends and challenges impacting higher education and how institutions can remain relevant in the face of change.

IT Restructuring and Consolidation: Lessons Learned in Cost-Reduction Initiatives
Resource constraints are driving many IT organizations to take a close look at efficiency and effectiveness. Hear from two institutions that have completed major IT consolidation efforts and what they learned from the experience.

Encouraging Faculty Adoption of Learning Analytics: Whose Job Is It, Anyway?
A team from Indiana University Bloomington shares how faculty involvement was key to the implementation of an institution-wide LMS dashboard.

The Bias Truth of AI Models
Teddy Benson, director of data integration for Walt Disney World, Parks and Resorts, dive into the problem of bias making its way into artificial intelligence systems — and how we can detect and remove it.

The Educause 2019 Top 10 IT Issues
Get a preview of the biggest topics in higher education IT for the coming year, with panel members on hand to discuss the issues and their potential impact. Attendee participation is encouraged, so bring your questions and ideas.

Blockchains and Credentialing: Educational Use Cases and Technologies of Trust
Arizona State University's Lev Gonick and Georgetown University's Phil Long explore the potential of blockchain technology to give learners ownership of their educational achievements.

The Pragmatist and the Futurist
Consultants Bryan Alexander and Michael Johnson give their take on emerging challenges to college and university sustainability, the academic business model and technology's role in the future of higher education.

What Do We Owe Students When We Collect Their Data?
Explore the opportunities, responsibilities and ethical issues involved in the use of student data, as well as ways to encourage students to have agency over their own data.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

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