But I know that the lure of professional development unconference-style might not be enough for some, or that some people are a little wary of this new type of conference experience because it breaks with the traditional image of what an educational conference should be. So, to help convince anyone out there still unsure about whether or not they should attend an EdCamp, here are 6 great reasons--one for each day left until EdCamp Chicago.
- The EdCamp experience is designed around you. It's all about your questions, your passions, and what you want to learn.
- EdCamp is meant to be small and informal. If you don't have a particular fondness for the large educational conference with big names to draw in big crowds, then EdCamps are the place for you.
- Because it's not about big names for big crowds, EdCamps are about sharing your individual expertise or finding out about your specific areas of interest. It's about hearing and/or sharing what's actually working and what's not in schools and classrooms from people who are currently with you in the "educational trenches," so to speak.
- Edcamps are designed for networking with other people with your similar interests. Be prepared to meet other educators with whom you can share ideas and resources long after your few hours together attending sessions.
- EdCamps are free and held on Saturdays to give everyone the opportunity to attend.
But perhaps the biggest reason you should attend an EdCamp, whether it be EdCamp Chicago or any other unconference being held near you, is this:
6. You have nothing to lose, except valuable insights, ideas, and new
friendships.
We would love to see you at EdCamp Chicago. You can register online here until February 9th (there will be event-day registration).