Call for Proposals

 

Association for Experiential Education

 

2008 Northeast

Regional Conference

 

Learn Where You Are

 

APRIL 11-13, 2008

 

Sargent Center

Hancock, NH

www.bu.edu/outdoor

 

Proposal Deadline: November 30, 2007

 

 

Deb Sugerman, Workshop Coordinator

2008 Northeast Conference Committee

8 Riverside Farm Drive

Lee, NH 03824

603.767.2680

deb.sugerman@comcast.net

LEARN WHERE YOU ARE

 

The theme of this year’s conference

arose from two ideas:

 

Sense of place.  A recent movement has centered on teaching students academic subjects utilizing the environment immediately around them.  Sometimes called “place-based learning,” the experiential techniques help students gain a sense of place – a sense of authentic human attachment and belonging to a place. Learn Where You Are means developing a sense of place within the conference environment and learning how to use these concepts in our teaching.

 

Sense of self.  Learn Where You Are also means taking full advantage of the conference to learn new ideas, gain new skills, make new friends and contacts, and discover something new about ourselves.

 

The theme Learn Where You Are sets the stage for the workshop proposals.  Use it and the subthemes of sense of place and sense of self to develop exciting and creative workshops.  I look forward to seeing workshop proposals from first-time, seasoned, and student-presenters from the Northeast region. 

 

Good luck!

Julie Clemons, Convener

 

Sargent Center

 

A Boston University tradition since 1932, Sargent Center for Outdoor Education began as Sargent Camp, the summer location for Dudley Sargent’s teacher training program. Today, nearly 100 years later, Sargent Center continues to be a center of progressive outdoor education.

 

FOR SITE INFORMATION SEE

www.bu.edu/outdoor

 

 

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION FOR EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION

 

 

 

 

The Association for Experiential Education (AEE) is a nonprofit, international, professional organization whose mission is to develop and promote experiential education.  AEE was formed in the early 1970s and now has close to 1,400 members in 30 countries worldwide.

 

The association is committed to supporting professional development, theoretical advancement, and evaluation of experiential education worldwide.  Our intent is to contribute to making a more just and compassionate world by transforming education.

 

AEE does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, or professional affiliation in matters of employment or application for membership.
Our diverse membership consists of individuals
and organizations with affiliations in education, recreation, outdoor and adventure programming,

the environment, mental health, youth development, programming for people with disabilities, service learning, and organizational development.

 

CONTACTS

If you would like to obtain more information

           about the conference, please contact us.

 

·         Convener

Julie Clemons

Julie.Clemons@Dartmouth.EDU

 

·         Workshops

Deb Sugerman

deb.sugerman@comcast.net

 

·          Registration

Hutch Hutchinson

pjhutch@bu.edu

 

·         AEE Northeast Regional Chair

Paul Shirilla

shirilla@unh.edu

 

 

           If you are interested in helping with
           the 2007 conference, please contact
           the convener.

Proposal Process

 

THE REVIEW PROCESS

 

The Proposal Review Process is as follows:

1. On the Application form, identify the thematic strand in which your workshop best fits.

2. The proposal will be read and scored by up to

    four reviewers.

3. The host workshop committee makes the final decision on accepted workshops, based on the reviewer scores and feedback, as well as the volume of proposals received.

4. Review of proposals will begin December 1, 2007.

5. You will be contacted by February 15, 2008 regarding the status of your workshop proposal.

 

 

 

REVIEW CRITERIA

 

The review panels will use the framework listed below to rate each proposal. Please familiarize yourself with these criteria so you can submit the strongest possible proposal.

 

 

1. Significance and value of topic and content of the workshop to the conference thematic strand, the field of experiential education, and to the intended audience (40%)

See Application–Page 5, #1a, b, c

 

• Is the proposal topic relevant/timely/critical/of interest for the designated strand and/or AEE conference participants in general?

• Does the workshop integrate theoretical foundations and innovations?

 

2. Skills and purpose clearly developed (30%)

See Application – Page 5, #1d

 

• Are the ideas fully and thoughtfully developed?

• Are tangible skills/outcomes for participants identified?

 

 

 

 

 

3. Workshop design/format (10%)

See Application – Page 5, #1e

• Is the application completed in full, providing detailed information about the format and content of the session?

 

It is recommended that workshops incorporate experiential components. We realize this factor may not be appropriate for some presentations, such as sharing research results. Experiential learning is the cornerstone of AEE, and it affects the learner’s cognitive structures, attitudes and values, perceptions and behavioral patterns. Experiential learning conceives of the learner as an active participant in creating personal knowledge. It is interactive and encourages learners to discover knowledge rather than be informed. Experiential learning is best received within a supportive, accepting and caring social environment that embraces several different learning modalities in order to effectively reach people with different learning styles.

 

4. Qualifications/expertise (10%)

See Application – Page 5, #3

 

•  Does the applicant have the necessary expertise to present this subject?

 

5. Other factors taken into consideration (10%)

 

•  Does the proposed workshop fill an anticipated gap? In years past, we received fewer proposals in the following areas: diversity, research, technology, universal adventure-based programming, corporate training and development, and advanced practitioner-related topics.

•  New presenters are encouraged to submit proposals.

•  Does the proposer have the necessary expertise to present this subject?

•  Do reviewers think the workshop should be offered?

•  How does the workshop fit into the theme?

 

 

 

If your workshop is accepted,

 

YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US…

 

• Prompt confirmation of your workshop’s acceptance.  Notification date is February 15, 2008.

 

• Timely responses to communication from you.

 

• Regular updates on registration, conference program and schedule changes, deadlines and other issues that may affect your presentation.

 

• Publication of the workshop abstract, presenter bio(s) and contact information in the conference program.

 

• Support and guidance if requested.

 

• A well-managed on-site experience to create an environment that enables you to provide a high-quality learning experience.

 

• Evaluation and feedback from workshop participants.

 

• An opportunity to provide feedback to us on the process.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WE EXPECT PRESENTERS TO…

 

• Submit no more than two proposals. Please note that due to the volume of submissions, we may only be able to accept one of two proposals.

 

• Be able to present workshops in any workshop timeslot on either Saturday, April 12, or Sunday, April 13. Please do not submit a proposal unless you will be able to present during any of the conference dates or times.

 

• Respond promptly to communications from the workshop committee.

 

• Request in advance audiovisual equipment on this proposal form. Please help us control costs by only ordering essential items. Notify us ASAP if your plans or needs change. Equipment not requested on this form may not be available at the conference.

 

• Prepare and copy sufficient handouts and materials for the maximum number of participants (as designated on your proposal application).

 

• Register for the conference by the registration deadline. A registration brochure will be mailed
to you.

 

• Present the workshop that has been approved by the workshop committee.

 

 

   SUBMISSION DEADLINE: RECEIVED BY NOVEMBER 16, 2007

Proposal Application

 

AEE NORTHEAST REGIONAL CONFERENCE ·  APRIL 11-13, 2008

 

 

 

 

·   USE A SEPARATE APPLICATION FOR EACH PROPOSAL - Maximum of two proposals per presenter may be submitted (includes co-presenting).

·   Current AEE Member?    ___Yes    ___No
(Does not affect your proposal review.)

 

*The person listed as Presenter will be the Contact Person for the workshop.

 

Presenter’s Name:

Presenter’s Title/Credentials:

Institution/Organization:

Address:

City:

State/Province:

Zip/Postal Code:

Country:

Phone (day):

Phone (evening):

Email:

 

Co-Presenter’s Name:

Presenter’s Title/Credentials:

Institution/Organization:

Address:

City:

State/Province:

Zip/Postal Code:

Country:

Phone (day):

Phone (evening):

Email:

 

(Please list ALL additional Co-Presenters separately,

 using cut and paste)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUDIENCE LEVEL

(Check the one that is most appropriate.)

 

___  Beginner – Considers her/himself new to the field of experiential education and/or new to AEE.  No previous knowledge required.

 

___  Intermediate – Has had training and practice in the field of experiential education and has attended past AEE conferences.  Some previous knowledge required.

 

___  Advanced – Has developed a solid base in both theory and practice and has significant experience from which to work.

 

___  Open to All – Topic does not depend on level of knowledge or involvement with the field of experiential education.

 

 

 

PRESENTATION STYLE

(% must total 100%)

 

____% LECTURE – Didactic presentation, discussion limited to questions and answers 

 

____% INTERACTIVE/EXPERIENTIAL – Involves presenter-direction, verbal and/or physical participation

 

____% CO-CREATION – Participants and presenter create learning content together

 

 

 

SIZE LIMITS

 

___ Minimum # (at least 15 participants)

___ Maximum #

___ No limits

 

 

 

WORKSHOP LENGTH

 

___  80 Minutes

___  3 Hours

___  Willing to present same workshop twice

 

 

 

 

LOGISTICAL NEEDS

(Please check as many as apply.)

 

___  Classroom (chairs/one table provided in each room)

 

___  Secluded because there will be loud noise

___  Secluded because we need quiet space

___  Outdoor setting on grass

___  Outdoor setting on pavement

___  Need a lot of space in which to move around

 

 

AUDIO-VISUAL NEEDS

A flip chart, easel, markers and one piece of A/V equipment will be provided for all workshops.  There will be a $25 additional charge for more than one A/V equipment choice.

(Please check as many as apply.)

 

___ Overhead projector and screen

___    Slide projector and screen

___    TV/VCR/DVD

___    LCD Projector

 

 

 

THEMATIC STRAND (see p. 7 for descriptions)

(Choose the ONE that is most appropriate.)

 

___  Adventure-Based Programming

___  AEE Leadership Development

___  Art and Science of Teaching

___  Experience-Based Training and Development

___  Environmental Education/Nature Study

___  Facilitation/Processing

___  Mind/Body/Spirit

___  Outdoor Activity Block

___  Program Administration

___  Research and Evaluation

___  Schools and Colleges

___  Social Justice and Ethics

___  Therapeutic Adventure/Adventure Therapy

 

1. Workshop Title:

 

2. Proposal description (300-400 words)

 

Please address the following in your narrative, keeping in mind the Review Criteria on page 3:

 

1. The content of the workshop.
2. The significance/value of the topic to this audience and to the field of experiential education.
3. How the workshop integrates theoretical foundations and innovations.
4. Expected tangible skills and/or outcomes for the attendees.
5. The format of the workshop in terms of how the presenters engage the attendees. What piece of the workshop is experiential/interactive?

 

3. Workshop description for conference program: Summarize your proposal in 75 words or less as you would like it to appear in the printed conference program. Include previous skills or knowledge required of participants.

 

3. Qualifications: Please describe specific expertise in the subject area for each presenter.
   (No résumés.)

 

4. Biographical sketch: 30 words maximum for each presenter. Please do not send résumés. List your name exactly as you want it to appear in the conference program.

 

5. Have you ever presented this workshop at any AEE event before? If yes, please note when, where and how many people were in attendance.

 

¡   NOTE: If your proposal is accepted, we reserve the right to edit written materials prior to publication.

 

 

THEMATIC STRAND DESCRIPTIONS

 

(On your Proposal Application form, select the ONE that is the most appropriate.)

 

Adventure-Based Programming - techniques and models used by practitioners to foster learning and growth in wilderness- and adventure-based programs, outdoor education, or organized camping. Topics could include, but are not limited to: challenge course building/design, universal programming/design, initiatives and trust-building activities, climbing, boating, expeditions, and wilderness medicine.

 

AEE Leadership Development - annual workshops designed for AEE current and potential leaders and presenters. Topics could include, but should not be limited to: first-timer orientation, how to write a proposal, presenter development process, regional or Professional Group leader training or development, board and committee development, how to put on an AEE conference or event, general membership meeting, and AEE accreditation or publications training or meetings.

 

Art and Science of Teaching - we all teach no matter in what thematic strand we operate.  Topics could include, but are not limited to:   Techniques of effective teaching (i.e., what’s in your teaching toolbox?); the “art” of teaching; skills necessary to be an effective teacher and an efficient learner; techniques to enhance learning; how multiple ways of seeing and thinking influence learning and teaching.

 

Schools and Colleges - experiential teaching and learning for primary, secondary and higher education. Topics could include, but are not limited to: collaborative learning, empowerment-based education, service-learning, adult education, inquiry and action learning, problem-based instruction, peer education, simulation and role playing, learning style–appropriate teaching, and lab-based instruction. Workshops may also focus on unique theories and models of programs including co-curricular education, integrating adventure into the curriculum, interdisciplinary learning, learning communities, youth development, values and character development, and community-based education.

 

Experience-Based Training and Development - techniques and theories to facilitate growth and development of and within organizations. Topics could include, but are not limited to: team-building, leadership development, assessing clients' needs, program design and evaluation, facilitating strategic planning, visioning, business transformation, and systems thinking.

 

Environmental Education/Nature Study - techniques, models, and curriculum used by practitioners to foster environmental literacy and learning about environmental issues and the natural world. Topics could include, but are not limited to: environmental awareness and stewardship, sustainability, nature studies, conservation, and minimal-impact techniques.

 

Facilitation/Processing - cross-disciplinary techniques, tools and models for exploring philosophy, practice, methodology, self-development and growth as a practitioner working with groups in a variety of settings. Topics could include, but are not limited to: challenge by choice, full-value contracts, group dynamics and development, framing, reflection, facilitating the experiential learning cycle, observation skills, technical skills, collaboration and co-facilitation, and developing professional skills.

 

Mind/Body/Spirit - integrating all dimensions of the human being as an essential aspect of experiential education. Topics could include, but are not limited to: creativity, yoga, meditation, martial arts, personal wellness, prayer and other practices that involve a synthesis of spirituality, mindfulness and body work.

 

Outdoor Activity Block – want to run an orienteering session, or lead a place based learning class in the fields and woods of Sargent Center?  This block is specifically for activity oriented workshops that will be run outside. 

 

Program Administration - managing risk, responding to trends, promoting and marketing, maintaining client relations, fiscal management and staff development. Topics could include, but are not limited to: grant writing, strategic planning, capital campaigns, partnerships, accreditation, certification, insurance, internship programs, training, supervision, and site development.

 

Research and Evaluation - theories related to experiential learning, new and continuing research results, evaluation methods and outcomes.

 

Social Justice and Ethics - social and ethical issues and questions as they relate to experiential education. Topics could include, but are not limited to: issues of ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability and multi-culturalism. Also includes professional standards, ethics and integrity.

 

Therapeutic Adventure/Adventure Therapy -