An Unconference is a highly participatory structure based around informal, but focused conversations and knowledge-sharing among peers. It allows participants to drive their own learning by continuing discussions started in other sessions, beginning new conversations, and planting seeds for future collaborations.

How does the Unconference work?

The Unconference asks, “What’s the conversation you need to have now?”, and then follows up on the answer.

• Participants co-create the agenda by proposing discussion topics for the Unconference – either in advance or the start of the session. Those who proposed topics will each make a 1-minute pitch to encourage participation to their session.
• Participants move into breakout rooms by topic. Each room/topic will be led by the person who proposed the topic. They will share their own experiences and invite participants to respond and contribute their experience. Together the group will identify insights and inspire action.
• Participants return to the main room to debrief and close the session.

How do I contribute?

As a participant, all you have to do is to show up on one (or both!) of the two Unconference sessions, ready to learn and to contribute. You are encouraged to follow the “Law of Two Feet”: if you find yourself in a room where you are not contributing or learning, move to one where you can.

Convening a session is easy and doesn’t require extensive preparation. Here’s how to propose a topic:

1. Think of a topic you’re passionate about related to libraries, technology or pedagogy. (You may find it useful to look at the focus areas and topics from the Call for Proposals.)
2. View the list of topics to see if your topic has been proposed already.
3. If it hasn’t, submit your topic through this short form.
4. Attend the Unconference session you selected during submission, ready to give a 1-minute pitch for your topic.

(It will also be possible to propose a topic during the Unconference session itself.)