GESS Dubai 2024 Unveils Transformative Speakers and Programmes Focused on EdTech, Wellbeing, and Sustainability

Dubai UAE: GESS Dubai 2024, the region’s premier education conference and exhibition, returns from November 12 to 14 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Saeed Halls 1 to 3, promising a lineup of world-class speakers, dynamic sessions, and cutting-edge workshops. As the 17th edition approaches, this free-to-attend, CPD-accredited conference offers an exceptional opportunity for educators and professionals to explore the future of education and engage with leaders across various fields of expertise.

From educators and administrators to EdTech innovators and wellbeing specialists, the GESS Dubai 2024 speaker lineup covers a wide range of expertise designed to inspire, inform and transform. As education continuously evolves, the importance of bringing these thought leaders to the forefront cannot be overstated. Attendees will have the chance to participate in forward-thinking talks that explore everything from AI-driven classroom solutions to innovative wellbeing practices, all under one roof.

Stay ahead of the industry with exclusive feature stories on the top companies, expert insights and the latest news delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today.

Keynote Speakers and Their Talks:

• Gavin McCormack, co-founder of Up-School.co and a Montessori-trained educator, is an advocate for child-centred learning and the power of connection between school and home. His keynote address, Educating with Intention: A Global Perspective, will explore methods of creating harmonious learning environments that support both academic and personal growth. He is also set to lead a workshop on Building Bridges: The Connection Between School and Home.

• Darren Coxon, founder of coxon.ai, will deliver a keynote titled The Future of AI in Education: What’s Next? Darren’s talk will delve into how AI can transform the learning experience without compromising human connection, offering valuable insights into how educators can responsibly integrate AI into their schools. Darren will also participate in the AI and the Classroom: Friend or Foe? panel discussion to explore the implications of AI on the educational workforce.

• Matt Green, TikTok Sensation, TV broadcaster, teacher, and tutor, aka The Rapping Science Teacher, is known for his educational rapping videos across social media. Director of Education at Arcadia Education, Matt Green is an authority on creating forward-thinking learning environments. His session, Unlocking Tomorrow's Learning Spaces, will focus on the transformative role of physical and digital learning spaces. Matt’s approach emphasizes student-centred designs that promote flexible, dynamic learning experiences. Don't miss his talk on Day 2.

Conference Zones and Highlights:

GESS Talks Live: Offering a carefully selected roster of speakers and guests from GESS podcasts and webinars. Attendees will enjoy an exclusive chance to interact with industry thought leaders in live sessions, enabling in-depth conversations and providing valuable insights after each presentation.

• Finding Balance: Wellbeing Policies, Burnout Signals, and Personal Strategies for Educators

• How to Develop Sustainable Schools Practically

• Bridging Tomorrow: Navigating the Transition from K-12 to Tertiary Education and Beyond

Leaders in Education Conference: This exclusive conference is designed for principals and esteemed individuals within the Leaders in Education community. It explores the complex challenges faced by school leaders, emphasizing the vital skills and qualities required for successful leadership and achievement in senior positions. Some talks highlights include:

•The Art of Resilience: How Performing Arts Foster Emotional and Social Growth in Young People

• Fueling Dreams: The Power of Passion-Driven Education and Entrepreneurship

• Launching an Inclusive International School in Saudi Arabia!

Sustainability and Wellbeing Hub: With a growing emphasis on sustainability in education, this zone will focus on incorporating green practices into school curriculums and addressing the critical issue of educator burnout. Key sessions include:

•  Outdoor Education in 'The Indoor Epidemic'

• FlexEd: How Are We Embracing Flexible Working in Schools?

• The Impact of AI on Educator Wellbeing and Resilience: Risks and Opportunities

Workshop Space: Attendees can get hands-on experience through in-depth workshops covering a wide range of topics:

Rise with Resilience: The Blueprint of 4 Key Strengths

• Future-Proof Your School: Winning Hearts with Next-Gen Learning

• AI Solutions for Islamic Studies

EdTech in Action: As schools ramp up their investment in AR and AI, the EdTech in Action zone will demonstrate how these technologies are reshaping classrooms. Highlights include:

• Literacy and AI: Why Traditional Literacy Practices Remain Fundamental in the Age of AI

• Unlocking the Self-Paced Classroom: The Power of Augmented Reality

• Cutting through the Edtech noise- Bringing it back to learning

Gaming @ GESS: In a study conducted by ISC Research for GESS Dubai, esports and gaming emerged as one of the extra-curricular activities already being offered by some schools. This new zone will feature exciting explorations into gamification, esports, and game-based learning. With live Q&A sessions, student-led game tournaments, and engaging demonstrations, educators can discover how these trends are influencing student engagement and creating innovative opportunities for growth.

Product Showcase: will allow exhibitors to introduce their latest products and solutions to an international audience. Attendees will have the chance to explore cutting-edge tools and technologies that promise to transform learning environments

Mark your calendars for November 12-14, 2024, and join over 8,000 educational professionals and decision-makers from 74 countries. Explore a world of educational innovation, hear from world-class speakers, and discover new strategies to enhance your school’s performance.

For more information and to register for free, visit: www.gessdubai.com

More in News

The IoT is transforming various sectors, particularly education, by enabling distance and remote learning environments that offer more interactive, efficient, and personalized learning experiences. This transformation is particularly significant as the global shift toward digital education accelerates in response to recent events. IoT facilitates the development of smart classrooms, where interconnected devices enhance both teaching and learning. Tools such as sensors and smartboards enable real-time engagement between students and instructors. Smart whiteboards, for instance, can display lessons live, allowing remote learners to participate actively and feel more connected to the classroom experience. IoT-enabled cameras and microphones ensure that students can see and hear the teacher clearly, regardless of location. IoT devices can collect data on students’ learning habits and preferences, enabling the development of personalized learning plans. The data can be used to adjust learning schedules and methods to suit individual needs better, enhancing the learning experience. IoT can significantly boost student engagement by making learning more interactive and immersive. VR and AR are prime examples of IoT applications that can bring subjects to life. The hands-on approach makes learning more enjoyable and helps them retain information better. Smart devices can monitor students’ progress and provide instant feedback on assignments and tests. Smart pens and notebooks can digitize handwritten notes and sync them with cloud-based platforms, allowing teachers to review and provide feedback promptly. The immediate response helps students understand their mistakes and improve continuously. Tools offered by R elatrix Corporation support structured data capture and stakeholder communication that further enhance institution-wide operational insights. IoT can help educational institutions manage resources more efficiently. Smart sensors can monitor the usage of facilities like libraries, labs, and classrooms, optimizing their utilization. For example, IoT-enabled lighting and HVAC systems can adjust based on occupancy, reducing energy consumption and costs. Innovative inventory systems can track educational materials, ensuring resources are available when needed. The safety and security of students and staff are paramount in academic settings. Innovative security systems, including cameras and access control devices, can monitor school premises in real-time. Wearable devices can track students' locations, ensuring their safety during school hours. In emergencies, IoT-enabled communication systems can alert students and staff immediately. IoT facilitates seamless communication and collaboration among students, teachers, and parents. The Linsly School is a private independent day and boarding school emphasizing personalized learning, character development, and college preparedness. Smart devices connect students with teachers and peers, enabling collaborative learning even remotely. IoT-enabled collaborative platforms allow students to work on group projects in real time, share resources, and receive teacher guidance. Educational institutions can analyze this data to gain insights into various aspects of learning and administration. Analyzing student performance data can help identify trends and areas for improvement, allowing educators to adjust curricula and teaching methods accordingly. Data on resource usage can inform decisions on infrastructure investments and maintenance. Integrating IoT in distance and remote learning offers numerous benefits, from enhancing student engagement to improving resource management. The potential applications of IoT in education will expand, making learning more accessible, efficient, and personalized. Embracing these advancements will be crucial for educational institutions aiming to provide high-quality education in a rapidly changing world. ...Read more
FREMONT CA:  In today’s educational landscape, virtual field trips have become a valuable tool for both classroom management and enhanced learning. These immersive experiences offer fresh and engaging perspectives that enrich the learning process. By incorporating virtual field trips into the curriculum, educators can effectively address key classroom challenges, boosting student engagement, encouraging collaboration, and promoting inclusivity. Enhanced Learning Experiences : Offering immersive, real-world contexts, virtual field trips deepen students' understanding of various topics. Students gain practical insights that make abstract concepts more concrete by exploring different environments virtually. This interactive approach through virtual field trips allows students to experience the subject matter more meaningfully, enhancing their retention and application of knowledge. These digital excursions' visual engagement helps create memorable learning experiences, making the content more relatable and accessible. This deeper engagement often leads to improved academic performance and comprehension. Reduced Disruptions: Virtual field trips can help reduce off-task behavior, diminish disruptions and increase student focus. Students are less likely to be disruptive when eagerly anticipating an engaging activity. Virtual field trips' novelty and interactive nature can redirect student energy towards productive engagement, creating a more orderly and conducive learning environment. This reduction in disruptions helps maintain a more controlled and focused classroom atmosphere. Fostering Collaboration : Many virtual field trips incorporate collaborative elements that encourage students to work together on tasks or projects. This teamwork supports positive interactions and communication among students, strengthening the overall classroom experience. Voyager Sopris Learning supports learning experiences through teacher-guided instruction and technology-supported targeted practice. Collaborative activities during virtual excursions can require students to share ideas, solve problems collectively and support one another, fostering community and mutual respect while creating a more cohesive classroom environment.  Inclusivity : Offering equitable learning opportunities for all students, virtual field trips ensure that those with physical or financial constraints can participate. By providing equal access to engaging experiences, these digital excursions ensure that every student benefits from educational opportunities regardless of their circumstances. This inclusivity creates a supportive learning environment where all students feel valued and included. It also allows students to explore and learn from diverse experiences, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive classroom setting. Faith Lutheran School strengthens the classroom experience through individualized instruction that supports varied academic needs within close-knit learning environments. Flexibility and Accessibility : Highly adaptable, virtual field trips can be integrated into various subjects and curricula, allowing teachers to schedule lesson plans tailored to educational needs. This adaptability enables teachers to manage classroom time and resources effectively. Additionally, virtual field trips can be accessed from various devices, making them readily available to students regardless of location. This flexibility enhances the educational experience while accommodating diverse learning environments. Behavioral Incentives : The anticipation of an upcoming virtual field trip is a motivational tool for students. An engaging and interactive experience encourages students to adhere to classroom rules and participate actively in their lessons. The prospect of a virtual excursion creates excitement and anticipation, boosting student motivation and focus. This behavioral incentive fosters a positive learning environment where students are more inclined to stay engaged and exhibit constructive behavior. The promise of an enjoyable activity can effectively promote discipline and active participation. By offering immersive experiences that capture students' attention, these digital excursions enhance engagement, reduce disruptions, and foster collaboration, promoting a positive and disciplined learning environment. As educational tools, virtual field trips offer an active and inclusive way to enhance both teaching and learning for a more engaging and practical educational experience. ...Read more
The rapid growth of EdTech has transformed how individuals learn, making education more accessible and engaging. However, this technological advancement also brings new challenges, particularly in cybersecurity. As more student data is stored and processed digitally, the need for robust security measures becomes paramount. Why Cybersecurity Matters in EdTech The rise of EdTech has transformed the learning experience, offering innovative tools and platforms that cater to diverse educational needs. However, this digital evolution also introduces significant cybersecurity risks. EdTech platforms store and process vast amounts of sensitive data, including personal information, academic records, and even health-related details. Data breaches could have severe consequences, such as identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage. Safeguarding this data is not just a technical necessity but fundamental to maintaining trust within the educational community. Parents and students entrust their personal information to EdTech providers, and a breach of this trust can erode confidence across the entire industry. Moreover, adherence to stringent data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), is critical. Non-compliance with these laws can lead to hefty fines and legal repercussions, underscoring the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. Key Cybersecurity Measures for EdTech Providers To address these challenges, EdTech providers must adopt a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Strong data encryption ensures that sensitive information remains unreadable even if accessed by unauthorized parties. Implement robust access controls with multi-factor authentication and role-based access, complemented by regular security audits to safeguard critical systems and data. Employee training is another essential component, ensuring staff can identify phishing attempts and follow secure coding protocols. Organizations such as Civitas Learning  implement comprehensive training and security strategies to protect sensitive educational data. It was recognized by Education Technology Insights  with the EdTech Security Leadership award for best practices in safeguarding student information. Coupled with robust incident response plans, data minimization, secure transfer protocols, and third-party risk management, these measures collectively strengthen cybersecurity across the EdTech ecosystem. The Role of Parents and Students While EdTech providers bear the primary responsibility for cybersecurity, parents and students also have a vital role to play. Selecting reputable platforms with a strong track record in cybersecurity is the first step in ensuring data safety. Encouraging students to create robust, unique passwords for their accounts adds a layer of protection. Parents and students should remain vigilant against phishing attempts, avoiding interactions with suspicious emails or links that could compromise personal information. Staying informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices empowers users to contribute actively to a secure digital environment. Cybersecurity is an ongoing challenge for the EdTech industry. By implementing robust security measures, EdTech providers can protect student data, maintain trust, and ensure a safe and secure learning environment. Parents and students must stay informed and vigilant to safeguard the future of education in the digital age collaboratively.  ...Read more
Evolving academic expectations are driving institutions to rethink how student preparedness is measured, with diagnostic assessments gaining prominence under the category of Diagnostic College Readiness Assessment Platform. These tools are enabling more precise identification of learning gaps, allowing educators to tailor instruction and provide targeted academic support from the outset. By offering real-time insights and adaptive evaluation models, institutions are improving student outcomes while reducing the risk of long-term academic setbacks. The shift toward digital-first platforms is also streamlining assessment processes, making them more efficient, scalable, and easier to integrate into broader learning systems. Concurrently, the expansion of diagnostic assessments brings challenges around data management, equity in access, and environmental impact linked to digital infrastructure. Institutions are responding by adopting secure data frameworks, ensuring fair access across diverse student groups, and investing in energy-efficient technologies to reduce their digital footprint. Continued innovation is expected to refine assessment accuracy while minimizing resource consumption, supporting more sustainable practices. As these platforms evolve, diagnostic assessments are set to play a crucial role in shaping responsive and inclusive education systems that align with modern academic demands. How Do Diagnostic Assessments Improve Learning Outcomes? Diagnostic assessments are improving learning outcomes by supporting a more structured and data-informed approach to academic planning. Educators can develop lesson strategies that align more closely with individual student capabilities, helping ensure that foundational concepts are well understood before students progress to more advanced topics. Dendritic Health AI , through its use of artificial intelligence and analytics-driven assessment capabilities, reflects the growing emphasis on learning outcomes and academic planning within modern educational environments. This level of precision helps reduce learning gaps over time, supports more consistent progression across subjects, and enables students to build confidence through measurable academic improvement. Another key impact lies in the ability to support continuous monitoring and timely intervention. Instead of relying on periodic evaluations, institutions can track academic performance at regular intervals, allowing for quicker adjustments in teaching methods and support systems. This ongoing visibility helps prevent minor challenges from escalating, while also encouraging a more proactive learning environment where progress is guided rather than reactive. In addition, diagnostic assessments contribute to a more balanced academic experience by aligning expectations with actual performance levels. Students benefit from clearer academic direction, while educators gain insights that support fair and objective evaluation practices. This alignment not only improves overall academic outcomes but also fosters a more focused and motivated learning environment, where progress is both achievable and sustainable over time. What Are the Latest Trends in Diagnostic Assessments? Recent developments in diagnostic assessments are reflecting a clear shift toward more intelligent and responsive evaluation systems. Advanced analytics and predictive modeling are being increasingly embedded into assessment platforms, enabling institutions to anticipate academic challenges before they fully emerge. There is also a growing emphasis on skill-based evaluation, where assessments move beyond traditional subject boundaries to measure critical thinking, problem-solving, and applied knowledge. This transition is encouraging a more comprehensive understanding of student capabilities, aligning assessments more closely with evolving academic and professional expectations. Hunter Business School provides career-focused education programs that support academic planning, learning outcomes, and student advancement. Another developing trend is the integration of immersive and interactive formats in assessments to make them more interesting and context-driven.  Scenario-based testing and simulation-led evaluations are gaining traction, allowing students to demonstrate understanding in practical settings rather than relying solely on conventional formats. Simultaneously, institutions are prioritizing seamless integration with broader academic ecosystems, ensuring that assessment insights contribute directly to curriculum planning and long-term academic strategies. These trends collectively indicate a move toward more dynamic, insightful, and forward-looking diagnostic assessments that continue to reshape how learning progress is understood and supported. ...Read more