When we look at how to harness a new model of education, it will be interesting to see what type of changes educational incubators will bring about.
I'd like to share three promising initiatives that are on the horizon, and would love to hear of others of a similar nature.
From their website:
Knowledge. Technology. Possibility.
A new national center founded to spur breakthrough
technologies that can help transform the way teachers teach and students
learn.
is authorized:
"(A) to support research to improve education, teaching,
and learning that is in the public interest, but that is determined
unlikely to be undertaken entirely with private funds;
(B) to support
(i) precompetitive research, development, and demonstrations; (ii)
assessments of prototypes of innovative digital learning and information
technologies, as well as the components and tools needed to create such
technologies; and (iii) pilot testing and evaluation of prototype
systems described in clause (ii); and
(C) to encourage the widespread
adoption and use of effective, innovative digital approaches to
improving education, teaching, and learning."
2. Launchedu
As part of the SXSWedu Conference from March 6-8 2012, Launchedu is described below.
Based upon successful Accelerator programs at SXSW Interactive and SXSW Music, LAUNCHedu provides an exciting opportunity for conference registrants to see promising entrepreneurs publicly pitch their startup education business concepts and products. LAUNCHedu sessions are sure to be full of fast-paced conversation and demonstrations before a panel of judges that include venture capitalists, successful entrepreneurs, and education practitioners.
Companies that are deemed to have the greatest opportunity for success and impact will move forward to an exciting final round of presentations, where the winners will be announced…and rewarded! SXSWedu appreciates the hard work of its LAUNCHedu Advisory Council, who is actively engaged in developing an entertaining, enlightening and rewarding experience.
3. Imagine k12
Imagine K12 is a for-profit enterprise looking to invest time, experience, energy and resources in entrepreneurs who have a passion for education and the technical know-how to create their vision. Over a three month period, we will draw on our extensive entrepreneurial experience, understanding of the Silicon Valley ecosystem, and knowledge of the education industry to help bring your idea to life, get your company funded, and to get your company on the road to success.
