Conference examines role of technology in Egypt’s Arab Spring Revolution

This year’s Engaged Citizen Experience conference will focus on the theme, ” Technology and Democracy: Dialogue and Dissent.” The conference begins on Friday, Feb. 17, and continues on Saturday, Feb. 18, in Parents Hall, Olmsted Center, 2875 University Ave. The program will focus on technology’s role in the Arab Spring Revolution and include keynote presentations from two Egyptian nationals.

The first part of the conference will take place 7 ““ 9 p.m. on Feb. 17 and will feature the keynote presentations. The second part will take place on Feb. 18, 9 a.m. ““ 1:15 p.m. On Saturday (Feb. 18), attendees will examine some of the issues raised by Friday evening’s presentations. Participants will choose between breakout sessions focusing on technology and democratic elections, environmental degradation, cyber-bullying and surveillance. A mid-morning snack and lunch will be provided.

Registration is free and open to the public. Please register for this event by Feb. 15 at: http://drake.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_39u6UO9BjvPVkbO

Drake’s Engaged Citizen Experience is part of the university’s curriculum to prepare students to participate effectively in democratic processes. Through engaged citizen courses and programming, students learn to evaluate the mix of diverse values and interests that influence democratic decision-making, leading them to be active stewards working for the common good of local, national and global communities.

Support for Engaged Citizen Experience events, including this conference, is provided through a generous grant from the Golder Family Foundation.