Submission proposals are now closed.

Proposal Process

The Center for Teaching, Research, and Learning, in collaboration with the School of Education and the Office of Campus Life, invites faculty and staff to submit proposals for the 2018 Ann Ferren Conference on Teaching, Research, and Learning. The 29th Ann Ferren Conference theme, “Reimagining the Educator for the 21st Century,” has four broad topics: (A) Changing pedagogical paradigms; (B) Importance of mentorship; (C) Education as civic engagement; and (D) Technological innovations.

Submitting a Proposal

Sessions are one hour and fifteen minutes long. Please allow for at least 20 minutes for Q & A. We encourage innovative modes of delivery, and as much discussion as possible.

In the online session proposal form, you will be asked to provide the following information:

  • The proposed title of your session;
  • The session type you have chosen for your session;
  • The topic area(s) that best (fit(s) the theme of your proposed session;
  • The names, affiliations, and contact information of all presenters
  • The goal, content, and main takeaways of your session; and
  • A short description of your session (50-60 words), which will appear in both the online and the printed conference program.

Important Dates

Proposals Due –
September 25, 2017

Notification of Acceptance –
November 15, 2017

Registration Opens –
December 1, 2017

Conference Date –
January 12, 2018

Session Types

  • Panel Presentations

    A formal presentation by a panel of presenters. We strongly suggest having no more than 4 panelists, limiting the presentation to 50 minutes, and ensuring at least 20 minutes of Q&A. Presenters are strongly encouraged to bring handouts and/or provide online resources.

    Panel presentations should be structured to foreground a variety of perspectives, cases, or examples on the topic.

  • Ineractive Sessions

    These sessions are primarily centered on discussion. They are facilitated by a single moderator, who will give a very brief, contextualizing introduction on the topic (5-10 minutes), with the majority of the session devoted to discussion by participants and the audience.

    Interactive sessions offer attendees a chance to share and discuss their experiences, their approaches to solving problems, or their new ideas on a specific topic.

  • Hands-On Workshops

    These workshops teach hands-on skills that can include an overview of a new skill or technique followed by an opportunity to practice using those skills. Attendees should expect an interactive experience.

    We suggest that all hands-on workshops include handouts and/or step-by-step guides for attendees to take with them after the session, and that you allow ample time for participants to try out the skill or tool you are teaching.