An Unconference Primer

By Kaliya Hamlin

The un-conference format creates space for peer-to-peer learning, collaboration and creativity.

At the start, the whole group will gather together and be guided through creating an agenda using open space technology. The exact process is not important to understand in advance – the process will become clear as it happens. The important part is that all those gathered will have the opportunity to put conference sessions on the agenda. No session will be voted off or ‘won’t happen’ for some other reason. All sessions are welcome.

The sessions convened will range from the formal to the informal:

From the well thought out pre-prepared talk reflecting years of research and practice to the spur of the moment ‘new idea’ that would be fun to talk about.

From the demonstration of a working tool to the whiteboarding of something completely new.

Before the event…

There will be a wiki that gives you a sense of the range of topics that people are suggesting and to connect with others who you might collaborate with when convening a session.

Although you’ll see suggestions for sessions and … (read more)

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