Instructions for conference preparation – Practitioner Development Workshops
We would like to make this a paperless conference so there will be no hard copies of papers available. Please make sure you have your copies of what you have read.
There will be no hard copies of the timetable. Please make sure you have access to the latest draft.
Preparing for parallel PDW sessions
The format for the PDW parallel session is 10 min for the presenter followed by a 30 min interactive session for the audience – a total of 40 min. After each session there is 5 min to change rooms if you wish to attend a paper in a different room. Therefore it is important that we all keep strictly to the times in the program and make sure that you get to the room on time after coffee and lunch breaks.
The format is strictly unplugged with an emphasis on interaction.
The role of the Presenter
As everyone listening has read the PDW briefing beforehand the presenters have 10 min to remind the audience about the focus of the session and any practical examples they may wish to share to initiate the workshop. In this time the presenter will also outline the activities to follow, how this will be structured and how delegates are expected to participate.
The presentation is unplugged – there should be no computers or power point. It is important to keep strictly to the allotted time for the introduction before beginning the interactive element. The chair will let you know how much time is left.
The role of the Chair
This role is a very important one in a conference where there is an interactive PDW. Consequently, we ask those chairing to:
- Prior to the session to have carefully read the briefing
- Prior to the session to make yourself known to the presenter
- At the session introduce the presenter, remind them that they have 10 minutes for their introduction (they might wish to outline how the rest of the session will work)
- Use the reminder cards provided to keep the presenter’s 10 minute introduction to the time (5min card and a 1 minute left card)
- After the presentation ensure that the audience is allowed equal opportunity to engage and participate in the activities set. The presenter may have included specific timings for interactive elements in their briefing, so please also ensure they are encouraged to work within these timings (you may wish to go over these with the presenter in advance of the session), but regardless ensure that they finish the entire session with the 40 minutes allotted.
- Ensure that there are opportunities to develop group discussions and debate of specific interests.
- Be prepared to support the presenter by encouraging participation of audience members if engagement of the group is not forthcoming.
- Be prepared to intervene in support of the presenter if you feel they are being unfairly treated.
- Be prepared to intervene if necessary to ensure individuals keep their comments succinct and relevant and do not delay the specific elements of the activity.
- Ensure that the session finishes at the appointed time and finish the session by thanking the presenter and reminding delegates to be prompt for the next session.
- Generally ensure an appreciative, engaged and collegial environment
The role of the Audience
When you attend a session you are expected to have read the PDW briefing beforehand. You may have a specific interest in the topic or just be curious about it, so it is a good idea to consider relevant issues or examples from your own experience. Please note the briefing may require you to have performed some work in advance of the conference, so please arrive prepared to participate. We want to promote a supportive dynamic discussion and hope that you are also able to develop broader discussions concerning issues, reflections and actions arriving from the PDW.
3E 2020 