Contentious Debate over Web 2.0 Anticipated
Berlin (GER), September 2007 - Astrid Mendoza, Chief Executive of the Online Educa conference organizers, ICWE, has revealed that one of the internet's fiercest and most controversial critics, Andrew Keen, author of the best-seller "The Cult of the Amateur: How Today's Internet is Killing Our Culture" will be the opening speaker at this year's event, taking place from 28-30 November 2007. Delegates at the event, a leading conference on technology-supported learning, have been told to prepare themselves for an ebullient exchange on Web 2.0 and its implications.
A dedicated detractor of Web 2.0, the British-American internet entrepreneur has caused commotion worldwide. Keen's acerbic criticism is hotly debated by academics and bloggers alike. His view that the immense new wave of personal publishing facilitated by the internet endangers traditional media and now constitutes a serious threat to our culture has enraged liberal commentators and web enthusiasts.
Ms. Mendoza says that delegates should prepare themselves for a fiery flak session. "Andrew Keen has strong opinions, and he does not pull his punches. Some commentators agree enthusiastically with his views, but others can't stand them. We are delighted that he'll be joining us in Berlin. I'm sure that the debate will be explosive and extremely interesting."
A speaker and editorialist in great demand, Keen, who currently runs the podcast internet show AfterTV from California, will speak in the opening session of the event. The full conference programme can be found at www.online-educa.com.
Online Educa Berlin offers eLearning experts, experienced users, and newbies from all over the world a forum for the exchange of ideas and the creation of contacts as well as a venue where the evolution of eLearning can be experienced. The accompanying exhibition gives international providers the opportunity to demonstrate their products and services.
