ABOUT IDEAIllinois Digital Educators Alliance (IDEA) has played a vital role in supporting the integration of technology in education since 1986. IDEA, formally known as ICE, is a statewide 501(c)3 non-profit member organization and affiliate of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Formed by a group of about 30 educators, ICE (Illinois Computing Educators) was created with Illinois computer-using teachers in mind. But since our humble beginnings, we have grown to have more than 12,000 members, who are made up of teachers, technology coordinators, library media specialists, administrators, higher education representatives, school support staff, and other Illinois stakeholders. Because of this growth and increased reach, we changed our name from ICE to IDEA in 2019 to better reflect who we are as an organization. We are proud to be an Illinois State Board of Education approved provider for educator licensure professional development hours (PDHs). This allows us, with the help of our dedicated partners, to provide educators with a plethora of professional learning opportunities. Whether you are looking for certifications, needing professional development hours, or simply want to be a life-long learner, IDEA is here to help. Becoming a member is free. Click here to join IDEA today!
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our mission To inspire, connect and provide the educational community with opportunities that transform teaching and learning through technology. | our vision Connected and empowered educators inspire today’s learners to become tomorrow’s leaders. |
Our values Professional Learning: Support and provide opportunities in teaching and learning through technology and collaborative communities Advocacy: Be a leading voice for teaching and learning through technology in Illinois Membership / Chapter Development: Strengthen and enhance chapter participation through increased member engagement Outreach: Become the recognized resource in education tech practices Finance: Increase funding sources to maintain financial stability in order to support member benefits Collaboration: Encourage collaboration and connectivity within the membership |
The Significance of the IDEA Logo |
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IDEA is the Illinois Affiliate of The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE®) is a nonprofit organization that works with the global education community to accelerate the use of technology to solve tough problems and inspire innovation. Our worldwide network believes in the potential technology holds to transform teaching and learning. IDEA is a valued affiliate of ISTE and connects with more than 70 other affiliates to share best practices, increase service to members, and strengthen impact in local education communities. Now, IDEA has been selected by ISTE to be an authorized provider of the ISTE Certification for Educators because of their commitment to high quality edtech professional learning and the ISTE Standards as a guide for transforming teaching and learning. |