12th International Conference on Thinking

will see a gathering of some of the most esteemed and respected thinkers of our time for a conference that celebrates and embraces the humble concept of thinking. Not just a series of lectures or talks, the 12th International Conference on Thinking (ICOT) will offer participants the chance to learn, reflect, discuss and be actively involved in thinking through new possibilities for the future. The conference will be held in Melbourne, Australia from July 4-8, 2005. ICOT brings some of the most brilliant minds from all parts of the planet to discuss a range of topics and issues under the umbrella of this year's theme; "Celebrate the Past - Window to the Future"

Presenters at the conference include: Edward De Bono - Originator of the Concept 'Lateral Thinking' Baroness Susan Greenfield - Internationally recognised scientist and ranked 14 in the "50 Most Inspirational Women in the World" Peter Draper - Director of Marketing for Manchester United Football Club Carlina Rinaldi - Director of Early Childhood Education for the Municipality of Reggio Emilia (Italy) Peter Senge - Chairperson of the Society for Organisational Learning and author of The Fifth Discipline Jan Van Mol CEO of Ad!dict Creative Lab, Flanders

Targeting seven key strands (Business, Health/Wellbeing, Science/Technology/Mathematics, Arts/Humanities, Education, Sustainability/Environment and Peace), ICOT will offer attendees the chance to participate in plenary sessions, workshops and presentations from a variety of the keynote speakers crossing over and complimenting several strands.

ICOT will also provide a major international forum at which to show-case and celebrate the innovative thinking and creativity already occurring in Australia.

The intention of ICOT is to promote cross field involvement in the development of thinking skills and to help leaders of organisations, educators, researchers and practitioners to develop people who are: Critical and creative individuals, Involved and productive local citizens, Aware and active regional citizens, Concerned & committed global citizens

A key aim of the conference is to acknowledge and value the culturally diverse range of concepts about, and approaches towards, thinking and learning.

Australian conference convenors, Jane Stewart and Karin Morrison, were inspired to bring this prestigious conference to Australia after attending the seventh ICOTin Singapore in 1997.

According to Jane Stewart, one of the strengths of the International Conference on Thinking is the interaction that it promotes between people from different fields.

"We are expecting that there will be incredible synergy that comes from people of diverse backgrounds, getting together to discuss ideas and possible outcomes around topical issues like sustainability, business, education and health," said Jane Stewart.

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