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Conference highlights future of learning

  • Published
  • By Beverly Simas
  • AETC Public Affairs
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  More than 80 representatives from military, government, and academia gathered here July 15-16 to share how they are working to modernize training and education. 

The Future Learning Conference was created to highlight what military, government, and academia are doing right as they develop new methods for education. 

Organized by Lt. Col. Jason Werchan, chief of Future Learning systems, the conference included presentations on topics including, "Determining the Right Mix of Live, Virtual, & Constructive Learning" by Dr. Richard Lester, dean of academic affairs at Eaker College for Professional Development, and "Air University in Second Life, " by Dr. Andrew Stricker from Air University. 

"So far it has been very successful. The Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines are all represented," Colonel Werchan said. 

Victor Mercado, an IT project manager from Homeland Security, came from Georgia to attend. "Basically, we are just kind of piggybacking ideas with each other. It is a brainstorming session," said Mr. Mercado. "I went to the University of Phoenix online (and) we would like to be there one day where someone can log on and learn." 

Air Education and Training Command held a similar conference in March. That conference highlighted future learning capabilities and plans from more than 70 public corporations.