I recently was asked by a friend and colleague if I had an advice for first-timers to NECC. I came up with a list that I thought I would post, since it might help others as well. Only a few more days before we travel to NECC for what I believe to be the best ed tech conference around!
General
Know what you want to get from the conference before you go. I recommend focusing on just one or two topics. This conference is extremely large and can be overwhelming if you try to concentrate on more than just a couple of topics.
When you check in you’ll get a pouch for your name tag that you have to wear everywhere. You also get some “ticket”-type contact cards. Tear apart the cards and slip them in your pouch so you have something to hand out to people who want to contact you. If you have business cards, keep a few of those in your pouch as well.
Sessions
Sessions about Web 2.0, blogging, podcasting, 1-to-1, and any other newer topic will be PACKED, so if you really want to see the session, get a seat early.
Be prepared with more than one session (in rooms close together) in case your first choice is a bust.
Look up presenter information before you go. Sometimes you’ll see that a presenter has posted virtually their entire presentation online and you could use your time to go to another session instead. This is not to say posted information can replace every session, but if you are looking mainly for resources, this might be a good solution for some topics.
Beware of sessions sponsored by companies like software and services, those are sometimes more commercials than informative sessions.
See if any of the bloggers you follow will be presenting. Even though those are likely to be very popular and crowded, it’s nice to see the person behind the blog.
Exhibits
Unless you are an exhibit-groupie or want to see something specific, take a half day and breeze through the exhibit hall fast. Yes, there’s lots of free stuff, but you can waste an entire day or more in there if you aren’t focused.
Food/Beverage
The snack breaks near or in the exhibit halls have really long lines, so unless you’re starving or really like the “free food” deal, I’d save the time and bring a snack with you. If you were smart or lucky enough to be in a hotel with a fridge, get some snacks or breakfast items to keep in your room and throw into your bag for the day.
Make time in your schedule to experience some of the local restaurants. Ask some of the local residents (many of the volunteers will be from Atlanta) what restaurants can’t be missed by a visitor. Grab a group of colleagues or new friends to join you!
Clothing
Although I’m sure it will be hot in Atlanta, the conference centers in my experience are cool, so if you get chilled easily, make sure you have a sweater or sweatshirt in your bag for the sessions. Walking shoes, not sandles for your days. Ladies, you might want a change of clothes for evening events, but nothing is too fancy. Did I mention walking shoes?
Follow Me
I’ll be blogging the conference and my sessions, so make sure to check back here often! I’ll be posting my tentative schedule by Friday. I have to sort through my planner and the many sessions I want to attend to create a realistic schedule I might be able to follow.
Have more suggestions? Add them in the comments!
