Welcoming Note
In its second year the e-Learning Excellence in the Middle East (2009) forum is delighted to invite researchers, practitioners and academics from all over the world to present their research findings, case studies and conceptual work in areas related to this year’s theme: Inspire, Innovate, Initiate, Impact.
The forum which is organized by the e-TQM College (www.etqm.ae) in Dubai, UAE from the 26th to the 29th of January, 2009 aims at attracting participants from across the globe who would have different perspectives, experiences, practices, knowledge and ideas to share, debate and exchange. Last year the event has attracted participants from over 16 different countries; this coming year, we are hoping to expand the outreach of the forum to include participants and presenters from all continents of the world.
The structure of the program and theme has been meticulously crafted to ensure it builds on last year’s forum and to guarantee its relevancy and application to the region; although many of the themes signal the interest and concerns at a global rather than at a regional level. The initial structure of the event will continuously be updated on the forum website over the coming months and therefore we do invite you to regularly check this website.
The 3-day forum will feature a number of plenary sessions where eminent keynote speakers will address topics of relevance to the forum theme. Our keynote speakers will be a variety of well known international experts from both the academic and corporate fields.
In addition, the forum will involve an interactive working session where participants and presenters will be invited to take an active role. Paper presentations will be presented throughout the second and third day of the forum and an
e-Learning Market will accompany the forum on the 28th and 29th of January. The market will allow leading international e-learning suppliers and service providers to present their latest products, services and developments in the field.
Of special interest, are a series of six post-forum workshops organized by the Center of Excellence in e-Learning at the e-TQM College, Dubai, UAE. These workshops are designed to provide hands-on practice and in-depth skills and knowledge on various aspects of e-Learning such as e-Learning Planning, Costing and ROI, e-Learning Standards and Quality Frameworks, etc.
The forum will also feature a variety of networking opportunities and special events during which new initiatives will be announced, as well as an exclusive Gala Dinner on the second day of the forum.
Finally, and on behalf of the forum organizing team, I would like to welcome you and encourage you to take an active role in our upcoming forum by submitting a research work, sponsoring, supporting the forum or simply honoring us of your presence.
Looking forward at meeting you in January in one of the world’s most amazing cities.
Dr. Narimane Hadj-Hamou
Forum Chair
Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs
e-TQM College