I am so excited to be attending the MACUL Engage Learning Technology Conference in Grand Rapid this year! I have religiously attended the Detroit conferences the past few years and can't wait to check out what Grand Rapids has to offer. If you are from Michigan and have the opportunity, I strongly recommend attending this conference.
The MACUL Engage Learning Technology Conference is one of my favorite conferences because there are so many amazing sessions to choose from. There is something for any level educator, technology coach, media specialist, administrator and even IT department. Often I find myself starring up to 5 different sessions during one time slot because I just can't bring myself to choose only one!
Here are some of my tips and tricks to making the most of the MACUL Engage Learning Conference!
1. PLAN AHEAD
Download the conference app because it will save your life! MACUL has created an amazing app that provides you a planner, session times & descriptions, and a note taking area so that you can keep all your thoughts in one place. Star all the sessions you might want to attend. You can always pare sessions down later. It's also good to have some extra options ready in case some sessions are filled. Also check out the floor plan maps so you have some idea of where you are going when you get there!
2. Get there EARLY!
It is nice to be able to check in, get your bag and conference information, sit down and make sure you are ready for the day. During my first conference I wasted so much time figuring out my sessions that I missed the the opening Keynote and my first session slot. It can be very overwhelming your first time and If you are like me you like to be prepared!
3. Pack your TECH!
Before heading to MACUL, check that you have all your technology, charging cords and a portable battery charger. If you want to make amazing friends bring a small power strip to share with others around you! You will be a hit with the crowds around the power outlets.
4. Pack SNACKS!
The conference is a lot of great fun but you do a lot of walking! Bring snacks and water to keep you going during the day.
5. Make time for FUN!
MACUL has a lot of great experiences that you don't want to miss out on. The MAKERSPACE is a blast and much needed break during the day. You get a lot of great ideas to try with your kiddos. The EXHIBITS are also a lot of fun to walk through. You can chat with all the technology companies and gather some fun goodies. Also, check out the STUDENT SHOWCASE! It is a lot of fun to walk through and talk to the kiddos presenting.
6. NETWORK!
Chat with people that you see in your sessions or those around you in the Makerspace, exhibit hall or keynotes. You never know who you will meet or the connections you can make. I have never met anyone who isn't welcoming! I was shy my first few times around but I am learning to open up more each time.
7. Attend the MACUL PARTY!
Again, this is an awesome time to connect with other educators and have a wonderful time sharing your thoughts on technology and engagement in the classroom. I haven't been able to attend all of these events, but I am excited for this year's birthday party at the Grand Rapids Public Museum on Thursday night!
8. Take in the RESTAURANTS OF GRAND RAPIDS!
There are some amazing places to eat right around the DeVos Convention Hall and hotels. I am excited to try some of the delicious food and take in the sites of Downtown Grand Rapids.
9. Take time to REFLECT!
You will be taking in so many great ideas during the conference that you can become overwhelmed by all the awesomeness. It is okay to take time out during a session to find a comfy place to relax and reflect. There have been certain times that I have found I wasn't as interested in a session as I thought I would be. I decided to take a break and let all the great sessions soak in, rather than run around trying to find another session. It's okay to walk out and relax!
10. When in doubt...VOLUNTEER!
This is my first year volunteering and I am very excited! I decided that I wanted to be more invested in the Makerspace this year because I am passionate about starting my own within my classroom. I will be volunteering on Friday, March 11th from 9-11 am. Come by and say hello!
I hope you learned a little more about the MACUL Engage Learning Conference and if you live in Michigan, I hope to see you there!
