Macomb, IL – New gadgets were the center of attention in an old gym on the Western Illinois University campus Wednesday. The event was the Eighth Annual Tech Fest. It was an opportunity for businesses and educators to show how they're using technology. Students also participated, including some from Macomb High School. Senior Matt Jackson says he's been toying with a program to produce a virtual tour of MHS. He says it would allow incoming students to become familiar with the building before ever setting foot on school grounds. The Tech Fest also featured demonstrations on podcasting, blogging, and new tools for teaching students. Peggy West of WIU's Center for Innovation in Teaching and Research helped oversee the "Technology on a Shoestring" exhibit. She says open source software alternatives make it possible to get by without much money. West says the quality of such products is good but users will sacrifice some of the centralized support and help available from commercial sources. West feels there is a spirit of collaboration in technology and she hopes it continues.
Nirvana for Techies
