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Top10 EdTech Report Issue No. 359 Olympic Edition
February 19, 2026
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Mental Health Summit 'Sneak Peek,'
Building Thriving Schools: Mental Health Matters
with Dr. Gina Cherkowski |
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Dear MindShare Community Member,
Happy Thursday, and welcome to this special Olympic Edition of the
Top10 EdTech Report.
As the world turns its attention to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, we’re reminded that the Olympic spirit, excellence, respect, and friendship, extends far beyond sport. It lives in our classrooms, campuses, research labs, and digital learning ecosystems. In this edition, we explore how education and innovation are intersecting at record speed, shaped by AI, cybersecurity, immersive learning, and a renewed focus on well-being and values-based leadership.
This issue captures a powerful moment: a global education sector navigating the AI revolution while drawing inspiration from the collaborative, human-centered ethos of the Olympic movement.
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
Olympic Education & Inspiration
🔹 Highlights from the Olympic Value Education Programme (OVEP) by the International Olympic Committee
🔹 A look at Olympic education initiatives tied to Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games
🔹 How post-secondary institutions like Algonquin College are contributing to live global broadcasting at the Games
Podcasts & Leadership Voices
This week’s
MindShare Learning Podcast features Dr. Gina Cherkowski on building thriving schools with mental health at the forefront, while
MindSharing | LinkedUp continues to spotlight system-level innovation and leadership in action.
AI in Action Across K-12
From the AI-powered report card comment use case in Alberta’s Foothills School Division, to Ontario’s emerging Artificial Intelligence Accountability Framework led by Education Computing Network of Ontario, boards are moving from experimentation to structured, responsible implementation. Panels like the Halton District School Board discussion reinforce a human-centered approach, balancing opportunity with equity and ethical safeguards.
Post-Secondary Innovation Spotlight
Colleges and universities are accelerating AI integration, from chatbot-enabled student support to major research hubs like the Ottawa Medical Artificial Intelligence Research Institute at the University of Ottawa. Institutions including Concordia University and British Columbia Institute of Technology are advancing cybersecurity and immersive VR-based healthcare simulations to prepare learners for future-ready careers.
Book of the Week
A timely reflection on how digital tools impact student learning, highlighting both the measurable benefits, engagement, collaboration, personalization, and the pressing challenges of distraction, cognitive overload, equity gaps, and ethical AI use. The message is clear: technology’s success depends not on adoption alone, but on thoughtful implementation and sustained professional learning.
Celebrating Girls Who Game & Emerging Tools
We continue to champion inclusion and digital empowerment, recognizing that tomorrow’s innovators are shaped by today’s opportunities in STEM, esports, and AI literacy.
As Professor Hannah Fry of the University of Cambridge noted during her keynote at BETT UK, the shift from the industrial era to the AI revolution is unfolding at 10x the speed, with 90% of jobs expected to be impacted. The question before us is not whether education will change, but how intentionally and ethically we guide that transformation.
In the spirit of the Olympics, this edition reminds us that innovation, like athletic excellence, is built on discipline, collaboration, and purpose. Whether through AI accountability frameworks, VR-powered nursing simulations, cybersecurity degree launches, or global broadcasting at the Games, education remains the training ground for a more resilient, inclusive future.
Thank you for being part of the MindShare community, educators, leaders, innovators, and partners committed to ensuring technology strengthens human potential rather than replaces it.
Stay inspired, stay connected, and as always, keep the learning curve steep.
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Robert Martellacci, M.A. EdTech
Founder & President, MindShare Learning Media & Consulting
Chief Digital Publisher, The MindShare Learning Report™
Chair, 16th Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit
Founder, MindShare Workspace--Your Place to Work & Learn
CEO & Co-founder, C21 Canada--Canadians for 21st Century Learning & Innovation
Follow us on Twitter @MindShareLearn @c21can @mindsharework
https://mindsharelearning.ca/ |
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Mind Sharing | LinkedUp Podcast Episode 191 With Robert Martellacci |
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Massive Shift from Inustrial to AI Revolution Framing Shifting at 10X the Speed 90% of Jobs will be impacted in the Age of AI
Hannah Fry, Professor of the Public Understanding of Mathematics, University of Cambridge , on the Opening Keynote @ bett UK
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Refining Report Card
comments using an AI Assistant
Foothills School Division, Alberta
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Algonquin College’s School of Media and Design is celebrating faculty and alumni from its Broadcasting – Television and Streaming Video program who are contributing to coverage of the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Games. Professor Matthew McCooeye joined CBC’s production team to produce Olympic curling events, including the Mixed Doubles gold medal game and multiple men’s and women’s draws, building on his previous Olympic broadcasting experience. Alumna and faculty member Michelle Young is working with Olympic Broadcast Service as an EVS operator, editing highlights for international broadcasters, alongside several other program graduates covering hockey and curling. Their involvement highlights the program’s strong industry connections and provides current students with real-world insights into live sports production at the highest level. |
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Celebrating Girls Who Game
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How to effectively use
digital tools in the classroom |
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What is the impact of technology on students’ learning?
The latest research suggests some benefits, including:
▶️ Boosting engagement
▶️ Supporting collaboration
▶️ Personalised learning.
But education systems need to be aware of the challenges:
▶️ Digital distraction
▶️ Cognitive overload
▶️ Equity gaps
▶️ The need for robust ethical safeguards around AI.
The success of these tools depends on how they are implemented.
That’s why teachers need proper training and support, to help ensure they know when and how to use them.
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Unboxing Generation Faraday:
Solving Digital Distraction
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1. ECNO's AI Resources and Guidelines
Artificial Intelligence Accountability Framework
https://www.ecno.org/ | February 14, 2026
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The Ontario Association of School Business Officials Joint Collaborative Committee began examining the use of generative AI tools in June 2023, forming a working group to develop guidelines and resources to support responsible use in school boards, particularly for educators. By the 2024–2025 school year, finalized Guidelines for Responsible Use of Generative AI and a collection of Generative AI Resources were distributed across Ontario, with live versions maintained for ongoing updates. In fall 2025, the initiative expanded to include more than 130 education professionals who contributed to the development of an Artificial Intelligence Accountability Framework, later approved by ECNO and OASBO. The framework is intended as a customizable starting point for individual school boards, recognizing the rapidly evolving nature of AI and the need for policies that reflect current understanding and local circumstances. |
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2. What AI Means for Students: Halton District School Board Panel Addresses Promise and Concern
https://www.therecord.com/ | January 31, 2026
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A Halton District School Board panel explored how AI can support student learning while raising valid concerns about safety, equity, and critical thinking. Board leaders emphasized a cautious, human-centered approach, with strict policies limiting AI use by younger students, requiring citation, and prioritizing consent and teacher oversight. Guest speaker Kulbir Colin Singh Dhillon framed AI as a powerful new digital force that demands regulation, parental involvement, and thoughtful integration, while also highlighting its potential to support teachers and personalize learning for students who need extra help. The discussion acknowledged both the risks of overreliance and the opportunity for a more equitable, supportive, and potentially transformative future if AI is implemented responsibly. |
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3. Manitoba school division adds ‘reasonable overnight restriction’ to student laptop
https://www.ctvnews.ca/ | February 6, 2026 |
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The Hanover School Division in Manitoba has introduced an overnight internet restriction on school-issued laptops to limit non-educational use late at night. Beginning this semester, students in Grade 9 and above will lose internet access on their devices between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m. Division officials say the change responds to concerns from parents and staff and is intended to support healthy sleep habits and student well-being. The restriction applies only to internet access, allowing continued use of essential offline school tools while reinforcing that the laptops are meant for educational purposes. |
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The Beijing 2022 Olympic Education Programme promoted Olympic and Paralympic values, expanded winter sports participation, and encouraged inclusion for people with disabilities, creating a lasting legacy across China. Olympic education and winter sports history have been integrated into primary and secondary school curricula, with opportunities for students to try sports such as skiing, skating, hockey, and curling, including “dry land” versions in regions without winter conditions. Demonstration schools, inter-school leagues, and events like the Mini Winter Olympics have engaged thousands of young participants, while specialized programmes and accessible facilities have supported students with disabilities. Through initiatives such as the IPC’s I’mPOSSIBLE programme and the IOC’s OVEP toolkit, the programme has strengthened awareness of inclusion, respect, and the achievements of Para athletes nationwide. |
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The Olympic Value Education Programme (OVEP), developed by the International Olympic Committee, promotes the core Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship through free educational resources and interactive activities for young people. For the first time in Italy, the programme is included in the Milano Cortina 2026 Education Gen26 initiative, helping connect sport and culture in the lead-up to the Olympic Winter Games. OVEP provides accessible toolkits, playbooks, and activity sheets designed for teachers, coaches, and schools to complement curricula while highlighting the long-term benefits of sport, health, and social interaction. Its launch in Rome was celebrated by key Olympic and Italian education leaders, marking a commitment to inspiring youth across different ages, cultures, and athletic abilities. |
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AI is rapidly reshaping post-secondary education, shifting from a perceived threat to academic integrity to a widely adopted tool that supports learning, teaching, and institutional efficiency. Educators say tools like ChatGPT can help students better understand complex topics, improve writing quality, and provide 24/7 tutoring support, while also enabling professors to enhance curriculum design and student outreach. While concerns remain around overreliance, ethics, and academic integrity, universities report a growing acceptance of AI as policies evolve and tools improve in accuracy and reliability. Experts emphasize that despite AI’s impact, the core value of higher education, human connection, collaboration, and critical inquiry, remains essential and unchanged. |
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7. uOttawa Faculty of Medicine launches hub to accelerate AI-driven health breakthroughs
https://www.uottawa.ca/ | January 27, 2026 |
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The University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine has launched the Ottawa Medical Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (OMARI) to accelerate AI-driven healthcare innovation. Led by Dr. Khaled El Emam, OMARI serves as a hub for research, education, and commercialization, helping medical researchers bring AI tools from the lab to real-world applications faster. The institute fosters collaboration across faculties and affiliated hospitals, providing access to data, computing resources, and platforms like Fuel iX to streamline AI adoption and development. By combining education, ethical AI deployment, and practical support, OMARI aims to strengthen patient care, research efficiency, and the next generation of medical innovators. |
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Concordia University has launched two new undergraduate cybersecurity programs, a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Engineering, through the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, with applications open for fall 2026. Designed to address significant labour shortages in Quebec and across Canada, the programs offer students a choice between a focused science pathway for technical and analytical roles and a comprehensive engineering degree that leads to professional licensure. The BEng is the first undergraduate engineering program in Canada dedicated entirely to cybersecurity and meets national accreditation standards, while both degrees emphasize secure systems, critical infrastructure protection and emerging technologies. Students will gain hands-on experience through co-op placements, internships and research opportunities, preparing them to tackle evolving cyber threats across sectors such as finance, aerospace, defence and energy. |
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9. Could an empathic robot be a part of your future healthcare team?
https://www.uvic.ca/ | January 28, 2026
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The University of Victoria’s Institute for Aging and Lifelong Health is hosting a public event exploring how artificial intelligence is being integrated into health care and research. The panel will examine AI applications ranging from medical imaging and robotic surgery to empathic robots and clinical decision-making, while also addressing concerns such as accuracy, bias, trust and legal responsibility. Researchers and Island Health leaders will share real-world experiences implementing AI in public health systems and discuss both the benefits and ongoing challenges. The event aims to help community members and health professionals better understand AI’s potential to modernize care while ensuring safety and positive patient outcomes. |
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10. BCIT enhances Nursing education with pediatric VR simulation
https://www.bcit.ca/ | February 9, 2026
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The British Columbia Institute of Technology has introduced a high-fidelity virtual reality simulation experience to enhance pediatric nursing education for Bachelor of Science in Nursing students. Using the UbiSim platform, the program delivers immersive, small-group learning scenarios that help students develop skills in assessment, prioritization, patient safety, communication, and clinical judgment before entering real-world clinical settings. The VR experience provides a psychologically safe and structured environment, particularly valuable when access to traditional clinical placements is limited, and marks the first time VR has been formally embedded into a required learning rotation at BCIT. Currently implemented for Term 5 students, the initiative reflects BCIT’s commitment to innovative teaching approaches and may expand to additional terms and clinical areas in the future. |
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Professional Learning Events |
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2026 Global Education Coalition Annual Meeting & Country Engagement Day
March 23 - 24 2026
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SXSW EDU
March 9 - 12 2026
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Sport Events Congress 2026
March 9 - 12 2026
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ASU + GSV Summit: Learning at the Speed of Light
April 12 - 15 2026
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CoSN2025, Chicago
April 13 - 15 2026
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Mental Health Summit
April 17 - 18 2026
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ULead: The Summit of Educational Leadership
April 19 - 21 2026
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Toronto Tech Week
May 25 - 29 2026
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Teacher/Parent Resources Corner
Essential Edtech Tools For Back To School
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Leading Innovation in Education
Advertise your not-for-profit organization or EdTech company, sponsor a Webinar or Canadian EdTech Summit!, share your press releases, career opportunities, and more! To inquire about our EdTech strategy consulting services,
Contact us at robert@mindsharelearning.com
MindShare Learning Digital Marketing Strategy Playbook 2026.
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About MindShare Learning
MindShare Learning is Canada’s Leading EdTech Media, Marketing & Strategy Consulting Company. We offer expert insight to the learning technology sector to help leaders and learners thrive in the 21st Century global knowledge-based digital economy.
The MindShare Report Mission
Our goal is to keep you current and at the forefront of innovation in Canadian education through our weekly eMag. Be sure to connect with us:
- Contribute a story, or suggest a MindShareTV podcast
- Feedback, or suggestions on how to improve this report
- Advertise, sponsor, or strategic partnerships
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The MindShare Learning Report team consists of the following individuals:
Robert Martellacci, M.A. Ed Tech., Founder & Chief Digital Publisher
Dr. Ron Owston, PhD., Research Associate, University Professor Emeritus, Former Dean of Faculty, York University
Chris Kim, PhD., Research Associate, Software Engineer, software studio, Fresco Industries
Timothy Gard, B.Ed., OCT, M.A, Chief Learning Strategist
Hanan Mousa, M.B.A, B.C. S. Digital Media Specialist
MindShare Advisory Board
The MindShare Report is grateful for the guidance and support provided by our esteemed advisory board. Members include:
Laurent Burman, M.B.A., Chief Commercial Officer, Sound Commerce
Kevin Custer, Founding Principal, Arc Capital Development
Chip Fesko, Principal, Chip Fesko & Associates
Ian Fogarty, Educator, Riverview High School | MindShare National Video Challenge Award Winner
Dr. GuyTetrault, Award Winning Sun West School Division, Director & CEO (Retired)
Michael Furdyk, Co-Founder, TakingItGlobal
Dr. Eric Hamilton, Associate Dean of Education, Pepperdine University, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Maxim Jean-Louis, CEO, Contact North/Contact Nord,
Gary Kern, Principal, St. George's School
Dr. Susanne Lajoie, Professor, Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University
David Marsi, Senior Manager Training Initiatives, ScotiaMcLeod
Mirella Rossi, Superintendent of Education, Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
Sandra Chow, Award Winning Teacher, Toronto District School Board (On Leave serving as a Director of Technology & Instruction at a School in China
Ron Sedran, MD, Equity Capital Markets, Canaccord Adams
About The MindShare Learning Report™
Canada's Learning & Technology eMagazine.
Our mission is to provide insight and inspiration to K12 and Post-Secondary education and industry leaders by sharing the latest trends and innovative best practices and success stories in the Canadian education market space and beyond.
Editorial content is welcomed for our weekly and monthly EdTech Reports.
Please forward your news releases as web links to
info@mindsharelearning.com
Advertising opportunities are available, please contact,
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Consulting opportunities are available, please contact:
robert@mindsharelearning.com
Annual subscriptions to the MindShare Learning Report can be purchased at $99 CDN
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