Leave the lecture hall behind and join us for NSTA’s first un-conference experience, taking place in Minneapolis this October 27-29, and Portland, November 10-12!

What should you expect at this un-conference?

Taking place during the first two NSTA fall conferences on science education, this will give you the opportunity to continue the conversation, not the lecture. Many of our attendees have asked us to find a way to bring together people for engaging “offline” conversations. When something special bubbles up at the conference, or if there is a groundswell of people asking about a certain topic, we’ll make time for conversation and real-time reflection. Participants will be afforded an opportunity to present their findings from the conference while connecting with other science education enthusiasts.

Who will be invited to attend?

Anyone who attends the conference is invited, and we’ll use social media to connect with teachers who long to be part of NSTA conferences but are unable to travel. We’ll bring together conference attendees, favorite presenters, teams involved in the Maker Movement, community partners, science teacher superheros, your favorite authors, and perhaps a few STEM stars.

What is the expectation during your “Un-Conference Experience”?

The atmosphere will be relaxed, open, friendly, and fun. This will ensure that all participants, especially those joining for the first time, will feel welcome and respected. Learning will be spontaneous and inviting, providing you with information and, who knows, maybe a new comrade in education.  

Where and when will it be?

The first two will be in the exhibit hall, onsite at NSTA’s Minneapolis Conference, October 27-29, and the Portland Conference, November 10-12. We’ll bring updates to you live, via NSTA’s Twitter feed and Facebook page.

How can I suggest topics?

Add your ideas to the comments here, or tweet your ideas with the #NSTA16 hashtag. We’ll be monitoring the hashtag and encourage you to join us in this new venture.

Who is the host?

This is being supported by the NSTA staff and leadership, and I am the host. Please feel free to reach out to me via Twitter as well, and follow me at @DedricMcghee.

—Dedric McGhee, STEM Manager, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Shelby County Schools

2016 Area Conferences

• Minneapolis, Minnesota: October 27–29
• Portland, Oregon: November 10–12
• Columbus, Ohio: December 1–3

National Conferences

• Los Angeles, California: March 30–April 2, 2017
• Atlanta, Georgia: March 15–18, 2018
• St. Louis, Missouri: April 11–14, 2019
• Boston, Massachusetts: March 26–29, 2020
• Chicago, Illinois: April 8–11, 2021

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