I spent the morning at a tech camp-- a gathering of educators interested in sharing ideas and approaches to learning through collaboration. Although very well organized, it was group-directed. We came up with the schedule based on what we wanted to learn about. Then we broke into interest groups to share ideas and ask and answer questions. As one of the organizers said, "You vote with your feet." If a session didn't meet your needs, you were free to get up and try something else. There was no charge and you got to spend time with some great folks, many of whom I had not met before. They came from all over the region-- both public and private schools. The camp went on til 3 PM but i slipped out at lunch time. I had plenty to do at home.
A conference where you can slip away from when you feel the time is right and not having to worry about what the others might think..is the one I would feel more comfortable at.
