University of Northampton Hosts Technology Pedagogy Education Association’s 40th Annual Conference

Educators and digital learning experts convened at the University of Northampton on 25 June for the Technology Pedagogy Education Association (TPEA) Annual Conference, marking the organisation’s 40th anniversary since its founding as the Association for Information Technology in Teacher Education (ITTE).

The event, held at the Waterside Campus, attracted education professionals from across the UK to discuss the sector’s readiness for rapid technological change under the theme ‘Facing the Future: Are We Ready for Change Now?’. Key topics included artificial intelligence in education, digital skills development, computing within the curriculum, assistive technology, digital equity, and recent policy issues such as the social media ban for under 16s.

Dr Elizabeth Hidson, Chair of TPEA, commended the University of Northampton as an ideal host. She said: “The vibe is great in Northampton. We are quite a professional but relaxed association, and this environment has really suited us. It’s a wonderful campus, it feels like a learning community, and with the lovely green spaces here, it’s professionally uplifting.”

Dr Hidson also highlighted the university’s central location as a factor in facilitating delegate attendance: “Northampton is well connected and right in the middle of the country, which makes it easier for delegates to attend.”

Throughout the conference, participants examined the influence of emerging technologies and current policy developments on education, with particular focus on social media’s role and digital literacy among young people.

Emphasising TPEA’s commitment to technology-enhanced education, Dr Hidson stated: “We are literally interested in anything to do with technology in any form of teaching or learning education. It can go from working with physical devices with two-year-olds, up to distance learning anywhere in the world.”

The conference concluded with celebrations acknowledging TPEA’s four decades of contribution to computing and digital education, including a commemorative cake and recognition of long-standing contributors.

Dr Helen Caldwell, Associate Professor of Education at the University of Northampton and National Executive Committee Officer for TPEA, reflected on the event’s significance: “It has been a real privilege to welcome colleagues from across the UK and Europe to the University of Northampton as we celebrate 40 years of TPEA. The conference has brought together researchers and teachers to explore how technology can support inclusive and impactful teaching and learning.”

The University of Northampton offers a variety of conference and event facilities, including the Sunley Hotel located on the Waterside Campus. Event organisers interested in hosting conferences or meetings are encouraged to visit the University’s Conference and Facilities webpage for further information.