How to Make Your Conference Experience/Learning Last Longer
Before the Conference: Prepare
-
Make it personal:
Envision what it means individually to you and your students.
-
Be Strategic:
Determine what you want to take away from the conference.
-
Get Administrator Support:
Focus on future implications. Explain how you, your grade level team, and your school will benefit.-During the Conference: Engage

-
Take Notes:
Get and use a PD notebook or journal for writing down key and informational points. The notebook can serve as a reference for both you and your colleagues.
-
Get Involved:
Be an active participant. During Q&A share comments, give specific examples, or ask questions that focus on the session content.
-
Make Connections:
Process your new learning with your existing background knowledge.
-
Reach Out:
Introduce yourself and engage in conversation. You may meet someone who has successfully dealt with a challenge you are facing.
-After the Conference: Reflect
-
Share Your Experience:
Present your new insights and “aha” moments. Discussing key points will help you remember them better.
-
Communicate Your Personal Growth:
Consider what area is of the greatest concern in your teaching of reading. Target this as a high priority for professional development.
-
10. Use the Three Ds:
-
Decide on your greatest take-aways
-
Determine how they will impact your practice
-
Devise a plan to implement