Qatar Academy hosts Flat Classroom Conference

The Flat Classroom Conference, Leadership Workshop and Student Summit, is an opportunity for leaders, teachers and students to come together in Qatar and experience 'flat world' learning practices.

The event stems from the Flat Classroom Project, a global, collaborative project using Web 2.0 tools for connection, communication, collaboration and creation, and based on Thomas Friedman's 'The World is Flat". The concept and practice of 'flattening' the classroom draws on 21st century pedagogical practices that include personal learning networks, online learning and a constructivist approach using established and emerging technologies.

Approximately 50 international delegates, including over 25 students and their teachers from Australia, Ethiopia, India, Pakistan, Oman, and USA will be attending. Along with local international and government teachers and students there will be approximately 130 participants attending the conference, first of its kind in the Middle East.

"The Flat Classroom project provides an opportunity to visualize the role technology can play in supporting meaningful learning. It engages students in real world experiences and uses technology to empower them to take ownership of their learning,"

said Qatar Academy Director, Dr. Hedger.

The symposium is supported by HSBC Bank Middle East. "With our global presence, HSBC is known as an employer with a diverse workforce. Globalisation and diversity create dynamic working environments that, if managed well, generate innovative thinking, problem-solving skills and mutual understanding of differences in a working environment. The connection with the principles of the Flat Classroom, whereby the same unique outcomes are reached ensures that we are cultivating future employees with a mindset that support our beliefs," said Nicole van Hattem, Senior Manager Human Resources.