Location:
E09 Hybrid

EDUCAUSE UnParty FAQ

Q. What is the EDUCAUSE UnParty?

A: An “un-party,” like an “unconference,” tosses convention out the window to put participants – and not organizers – in control of the content. During the UnParty, you can join colleagues in informal sessions to learn new skills, share techie secrets, or simply unwind with a room filled with crayons and origami. Each one-hour session will be facilitated by conference participants around topics selected by the community.

Q: What types of sessions can I expect? 

A: The UnParty is still a party and sessions are designed to be hands-on, interactive and fun. Highlights include:

  • A “Messy Play Room” will house crayons, markers, and origami
  • A black box theater performance on “Being Digital: Getting Connected or Going Crazy?”
  • Fun dynamic Ignite!-style 5 min speed presentations @ EDUCAUSE Interact!
  • Tips and secrets for microblogging in “Twitter101”

Got an idea for a session? Sign up for your own here!

Q: How can I sign up to facilitate a session?

A: The UnParty is broken into two session periods, starting at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. During each time period, there is space for 8 sessions. To grab your time slot, visit the virtual sign up sheet to add your name and topic. You can also sign up at EDUCAUSE Central Online in Denver. 

Q: Do I need to sign up in advance to participate in a session?

A: No. You can view the emerging session schedule online to plan your participation or visit EDUCAUSE Central during the event. The final schedule will be posted on Thursday on the “Birds of a Feather” boards near the registration area.  When the event kicks off on Thursday night, the UnParty rooms will be in the Korbel Ballroom and a complete schedule posted in the Korbel pre-function area.

Q: What should I bring to the UnParty?

A: Consider the party a chance to unplug and unwind. If you plan to participate in a session where access to the Web may be useful, feel free to bring your laptop. If you plan to join the photowalk, bring a mobile phone. Otherwise, take advantage of a session where technology is not required and leave your gear in the room.

Q: How can I prepare?

A: Whether you plan to hunker down in the art room or lead a session on iPhone apps, we encourage you to read Kaliya Hamlin’s blog on “How to Prepare to Attend an Unconference.”

Q: Where can I learn more about unconferencing?

A: Start your search on the Wikipedia page for unconferencing, which features prominent examples such as BarCamp, Bloggercon, and Mashup Camp.

Additional Resources:

·        How to Run a Great Unconference Session, Scott Berkun

·        Unconference Blog, Kaliya Hamlin

·        BarCamp Kit


 
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