Entries are open for the 2011 Microsoft Innovative Educator Awards, which are designed to encourage teachers to find engaging ways to use technology in the classroom.

Teachers have until October 28 to submit their entries explaining how they or their peers have encouraged students to learn using technology.

Evan Blackman, education manager for Microsoft New Zealand, says empowering educators is a huge focus for Microsoft.

"I'm passionate about technology opening the doors to more engaging and compelling learning,” Blackman says.

"But first we need to ensure our teachers are comfortable and confident using technology in the classroom.”

Winners receive a professional development package worth more than $5000, including a trip to the Microsoft Asia Pacific Partners Learning Education Forum in March next year, an HP EliteBook 2760p convertible notebook/tablet, and an Xbox Kinect package for their school.