2019 Convention Session Formats

AACC is pleased to offer two types of convention sessions: traditional and special.  Traditional sessions follow a classic format of lecture followed by a question and answer period.  Special sessions have a more creative format which allows the presenter(s) to focus his or her comments because there is a limited amount of time in which to deliver the content.

Traditional Sessions

50-Minute Breakout

A full-length dive into a layered, complex idea or initiative that is communicated in an engaging, accessible way via a panel or discussion-driven facilitation. These sessions require a minimum of two presenters and no more than four presenters.

30-Minute Breakout

A short and sweet share-out of a program or project that is making a real impact at your institution/organization or is setting the stage for a unique vision of the future with a clear call to action. These sessions require a minimum of two speakers, and no more than three speakers.

Special Sessions

Meet-Up Sessions (30 Minutes)

Hosted in the Exhibit Hall Lounges

Informal get-togethers that are the conference equivalent of coffee/beer with buddies while you fervently discuss a learning-focused topic you’re passionate about. Reflect on a particular subject that would benefit from friendly discourse and be prepared to lead the group with discussion points or questions.

Soapbox (30 minutes)

Hosted in the Exhibit Hall

Including a soapbox at your event can provide delegates with a platform to have their ideas heard. Individuals can submit proposals to participate and, if they are chosen, will be given a short time on stage to present an issue that is important to them.

Challenging views are encouraged, as well as the sharing of any projects or pieces of research likely to be of interest to the audience. The format is informal and sessions are usually limited to 30 minutes in total.

Silent Disco Talks (50 minutes)

This format allows multiple speakers to speak at once within the same room, while attendees can choose to whom they want to listen. Speakers wear sound blockers to avoid being distracted by other speakers. Attendees wear wireless headphones with various channels, which they can switch between in order to tune into different speakers. They are encouraged to embrace the silent experience, only showing their appreciation through silent clapping, etc. These talks do not include Q & A.

Talent Show (3 to 5 minutes)

Sunday Evening, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

The talent show format is ideal for presenting projects, demonstrating technology or pitching ideas. Participants have 3-5 minutes to demo their concepts and, ideally, this is done visually with props to create a “show.” Between five to seven “acts” perform before the audience is asked to vote on their favorite. A presenter helps to introduce the acts and keep the audience engaged.