Is edcamp just another conference?

NO

UNconference event organized by groups of educators, specifically designed to create a participant-driven, fun-filled day of professional development. Educators can connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate ideas, brainstorm solutions to common education problems, have group discussions, and receive information that can immediately be applied in the classroom.

This edcamp will likely be very distinct, informal, and unconventional when compared with other conferences or professional development seminars you have previously attended. The edcamp philosophy was derived out of common frustrations with regular professional development had by all educators today. The ONE size fits all approach where educators are hoarded into auditoriums and libraries to receive 2 hours worth of lecture-based, powerpoint-driven professional development will NOT occur at edcamp. The quality of edcamp isn’t judged by seat time. One of the best parts of edcamp is that it creates a level playing field for discussion. Since the attendees drive the conference and the attendees choose the sessions, there is no hierarchy between administrators and teachers. Teachers can moderate discussions in front of administrators and administrators can engage teachers in dialogue with both parties taking an active role in the discussion. The real focus of edcamp will be the discussions and the connections you’re able to make to continue the learning experience beyond this day.

Sessions are based entirely on interest. Participants drive the schedule, in fact, even if you find yourself sitting in on a session that is of no interest to you, you’re encouraged to leave and find a session that would benefit you. Yes, there is literally no preset schedule and there is no sign-up for each session. You are free to attend any session you want without a need to let anyone know where you’ll be throughout the day. Participants are encouraged to maintain ongoing dialogue about the event and to develop connections that will help improve their practice. We hope that everyone leaves with something they can use immediately in their own classroom or school buildings. Follow #edcampITL on Twitter during the day to read about other sessions. Many edcamp attendees feel they learn just as much by following the backchannel discussions that occur during edcamp.