JEDDAH – Classroom instruction across GCC schools will increasingly utilize mobile devices as smart learning solutions gain traction in the education sector throughout the region. The anticipated rise in adoption of smart learning tools in the classroom presents massive opportunities for smart learning solutions and technology providers who can leverage the growing student population in the GCC. According to the latest education industry estimates, student population in the primary and secondary education sector in Saudi Arabia is expected to swell to 6.6 million in two years, highlighting the massive potential of e-learning adoption in the Kingdom. Recently, the government has also announced e-learning to be a top priority for education reforms. Elsewhere in the region, potential users in the UAE could reach nearly a million by 2015. Following the two biggest markets is Oman which will see its student population in the same sector reach 670,000; next is Kuwait with 545,000, and Bahrain and Qatar with close to 200,000 each. Against this backdrop, education stakeholders will have a preview of the latest smart learning tools from world leading providers as well as the latest advances and best practices on mobile learning at the GESS 2013 to be held on March 5-7, 2013 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the event will highlight the theme “Smart Learning and Technological Advances in Education”. “One of the key drivers for the widespread adoption of smart learning tools is the capability of the teachers to incorporate smart learning tools and technologies in classroom instruction. For this reason, we have gathered the world's leading experts on the use of mobile learning devices in teaching,” said Matt Thompson, Project Director, F&E Group, organizer of Gulf Educational Supplies and Solutions (GESS), the region's leading education exhibition. Speakers include David Kirtlan, a certified Apple Distinguished Educator, who will lead sessions on how the iPad can be used to effectively teach languages and literacy, as well as math and sciences. GESS AL Nadi, a special section of the exhibition, will also provide its members, many of whom are key decision makers in their respective schools and countries, the opportunity to discuss at length their smart learning and technology requirements with leading providers such as Samsung, Microsoft, Edutech, Rosetta Stone, ICC, Core Education, among others. – SG
