It's an Unconference!
MAALLT Invites You to Its Spring 2011 Meeting at the University of Richmond!
Dates: March 4 (evening) - March 6 (morning)
Cost: Registration is $50 (reception, breakfasts, and breaks)
Website: http://maallt2011.grouply.com
The registration form is now available at
http://sites.google.com/site/workshopsandpresentations/maallt-2011/regis... or via the 'Participate' page on the Unconference website (http://maallt2011.grouply.com).
MAALLT's 2011 spring meeting is an experiment in holding an 'unconference', i.e., a participant-driven meeting. This keeps the conference costs extremely low (the only costs are food, lodging, and transportation) and opportunities for participation high. There are several different unconference formats, and we'll use a few of them, making our choices based on the ideas that you--the participants submit via the website (http://maallt2011.grouply.com).
The key points of an unconference can be summarized in two points:
• If the agenda is pre-set, it isn't an unconference.
Other than the opening reception and the food breaks, the events will be planned based on the participants' suggestion. One workshop is already confirmed: a hands-on in the University of Richmond's Spatial Analysis Lab, where participants will learn about GIS in the classroom and student research. An exciting aspect of Richmond's new International Center (the venue for the conference) is the presence of the geography department and the SAL, which make the connections between language, culture, and location clear.
• You tell us what you want to say.
• You tell us what you want to hear.
• We provide the space and technology you need.
See examples of the various format options and sample topics under the Participate tab of the website (visible once you join the site). Post your own ideas and contributions in the Forum. We'll use the Blog to report on what happens, but you can also use it to post your own thoughts and links to items for discussion.
At the reception Friday evening, March 4, a draft schedule will be available for additions and suggestions. On Sunday, we'll wrap up and plan for future MAALLT events.
PLAN NOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EXCITING EVENT!
By the way, we know most folks need to prove that they have presented at a conference. At an unconference, all participants are presenters and will receive an official written thank-you as proof.