Unless the nature of your work requires that you attend numerous conferences around the country or the world, you probably only attend one or two of the largest each year, that pertain to your industry. You may be well acquainted with the typical conference format, which usually consists of a carefully planned agenda, a specific focus or emphasis on topics discussed, with a set time for each. There is often an opening session, a banquet, scheduled breaks, educational sessions, and speakers who are booked well in advance.
If this sounds familiar, and you have never attended an industry event that varies from this format, you may be interested to know that the traditional conference has evolved to include several fascinating newer permutations. These less formal, less structured gatherings foster an environment of greater creativity, innovation, participation and exchange of information. These events are sometimes referred to as "unconferences," or "bar camps." According to Wikipedia, "A BarCamp is an international network of user-generated conferences (or unconferences) primarily focused around technology and the Web. They are open, participatory workshop-events, the content of which is provided by participants."
You can read more about the history and growing popularity of barcamps here:
There are a number of important accessibility and assistive technology industry events taking place this fall that are being characterized as "unconferences." The first is scheduled for this month, and is one of the must-attend events this season.
Char James-Tanny is the lead coordinator for the Boston accessibility camp. Char and I spoke about the event, and here is what you need to know:
The Boston Accessibility (Un)Conference takes place on Saturday, September 15, 2012, at the Microsoft New England Research & Development (NERD) Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It’s designed for anyone who wants to learn more about accessibility: design, development, documentation, and more. What char really wants everyone to know is that this is a gathering for everyone, of all skill levels or technical expertise. Everyone is welcome, whether you have a disability or not, even if you are just curious as to how a screen reader works. James-Tanny says, "Our day starts at 8 am with a continental breakfast, registration, and networking, and continues with multiple sessions. As we finalize the schedule, we will update our web site."
Sessions cover a variety of topics, from an introduction to accessibility and captioning to innovation to using assistive technology. Our opening speaker is Ronald Marlow, Massachusetts Assistant Secretary for Access and Opportunity. Our keynote speaker is Derek Featherstone from Simply Accessible.
This event is free to attend (donations are welcome) thanks to our sponsors," Says James-Tanny.
Sponsors include the Microsoft NERD Center, Accessible Media, Inc., Adobe, CA Tech, Digital Accessibility Centre, Interactive Accessibility, JTF Hosting (a division of JTF Associates, Inc.), New England Index, SSB BART Group, and The Paciello Group.
Don’t worry if you can’t attend, though, says Char: "Some sessions will be recorded, and we will post links after the event concludes."
More about Char: Char James-Tanny is president of JTF Associates, Inc. and has more than thirty years of experience as a technical communicator. She speaks around the world on topics including accessibility, Help authoring concepts and tools, social media, web standards, collaboration, and technology. Char has been a Microsoft MVP since 2002 and is the primary coordinator for the Boston Accessibility Conference.
For more information about the event, go here:
You can also follow @a11y_bos on Twitter for more information and updates.
More news about other must-attend accessibility events coming soon. Stay tuned.
LL
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