So, having also recently attended an EdCamp, I can say there is something between that and a traditional conference that would be best for how I want to learn. And, I am okay with giving up a Saturday (with the promise of a bagged lunch) to sit in a high school to talk teaching and learning.
Boy, this sounds a whole lot like SMWP's upcoming tech conference.
If I am going to travel to conferences, then I need it to add value — not only to come away with new ideas, but new tools that I have had the chance to try, and the experience I couldn’t have had if I were not there.
What I need now is a chance to spend time making sense of what I am hearing — I crave the opportunity to engage with the smart people who are with me in the room.
Focussed visits to districts, schools and classes are very powerful, with specific objectives and learning in action and not only in a presentation. I also find the traditional ‘study group’ to continue to have a huge impact on my learning.