Professor Dennis Beck was honored earlier this month at the international Association for Educational Communications and Technology's annual conference.

Beck is an associate professor in the educational technology program at the U of A. As a recognized leader in the field, he was named an "AECT Champion" and invited to participate in the conference's Breakfast with Champions event.

The AECT Champion award is given to a select few top scholars in the field of educational technology. The breakfast brings together professionals to interact with convention attendees on topics like research and leadership. "AECT has recognized me as a top, international leader in the field of educational technology, and I'm humbled to accept," Beck said.

In his award letter, the AECT president stated, "Your leadership, scholarship, and service all have rightfully earned you a place at the table."

Beck teaches courses in issues and trends in educational technology, instructional design, integrating technology into the curriculum and educational technology research at the U of A. His research focuses on and advocates for digital, educational equity for vulnerable populations, emphasizing culturally and linguistically diverse and special education students.

AECT provides international leadership by promoting scholarship and best practices in creating, using and managing technologies for effective teaching and learning in a wide range of settings. Members can be found globally in institutions of higher learning, K-20 settings, in the industry, government and medical sectors as professionals who research, teach and enhance learning with technology.

Beck joined the faculty of the College of Education and Health Professions in 2010.