Frequently Asked Questions How Does the Teaching and Learning Conference Work?

What is a working-group model?

A working-group format allows small groups of scholars the opportunity to interact intensively and on a sustained basis on a common theme. To facilitate this interaction, all participants attend only one working group, i.e., one track, for the duration of the conference.

What is the distinction between a theme and a track?
The conference is organized around a set of teaching and learning themes.  These themes are worked into the conference schedule into separate tracks.  A particular theme can be represented in one track or it may be split into more than one track.  For example, the theme of “Program Assessment” could potentially appear on the program in two tracks as “Program Assessment I” and “Program Assessment II.”

Where can I find a description of all 2008 TLC Tracks?

Tracks are organized when conference scheduling occurs.  Check here, for a complete description of the 2008 Teaching and Learning Conference program.

Can I participate in more than one track?

To facilitate the working-group model, all participants register for and attend only one track for the duration of the entire conference.  For example, if they register for a track called “Program Assessment I,” they are expected to attend and participate in all presentations for the “Program Assessment I” track.

Can I register on-site?

Non-presenting registrants are expected to participate as active discussants.  There is a significant amount of contact and interaction between presenters and discussants before the conference.  For this reason, pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

When can I attend a workshop?

Workshop attendance is determined by your track schedule. If your track is not in session, you can attend any workshop occurring during that time.

What is the difference between a workshop presentation and a paper presentation?

Workshops presentations are held outside of the track and working group sessions. Workshops are open to any conference attendee, as long as the workshop doesn’t conflict with one of your track sessions. Workshop presentations will provide meeting attendees the opportunity to learn about (through demonstration), and in some cases, gain hands on experiences with, an innovative teaching tool, technique or theory.

What are my responsibilities as a conference registrant/attendee?  Who are the discussants?

As a conference attendee you are expected to come prepared to fully participate in your working group in its discussion of an important theme in the area of political science teaching and learning. This means you will have read all of the papers that will be presented in your working groups and you will be an active discussant within each session. In the working group model, participants learn from each other and are able to bounce ideas and strategies off of their fellow participants. Thus, you are expected to attend  and contribute to all sessions within your track as a discussant.