The Technology Enhanced Supported Self (TESS) conference offers a wealth of information and networking opportunities. To truly maximize your experience and ensure lasting impact, thoughtful post-conference reflection and action are crucial. This post outlines key questions to consider after attending a TESS conference, categorized for clarity and actionable insights.
Reflecting on the Conference Content:
Key Learnings & Takeaways:
- What were the three most impactful presentations or workshops, and why? Identify the sessions that resonated most deeply and pinpoint the specific aspects that stood out. Were they innovative techniques, compelling research, or inspiring case studies? This helps solidify your key takeaways.
- Which new technologies or strategies were discussed that could benefit your work? Focus on practical applications. How can you integrate these learnings into your current projects or future plans? Be specific – note names of technologies, approaches, or researchers.
- What were the biggest surprises or unexpected insights you gained? Sometimes the most valuable lessons come from unexpected sources. Reflecting on these moments can unlock new perspectives and creative solutions.
- What research findings or data points particularly resonated with you, and how do they challenge or confirm your existing beliefs? Consider how the presented research might influence your future work, either by reinforcing existing practices or suggesting innovative adjustments.
Identifying Gaps and Future Learning:
- What areas of TESS technology or methodology remain unclear or require further exploration? Identify knowledge gaps and formulate specific questions to address them through further research, online resources, or future conferences.
- What resources or further training would enhance your understanding and application of TESS principles? Be proactive in seeking opportunities for ongoing professional development. This might involve online courses, workshops, or mentorship programs.
- Did the conference highlight any emerging trends or future directions in TESS technology? Keeping abreast of the latest advancements is crucial. Note these trends and consider how they might impact your field.
Networking and Collaboration:
Building Connections:
- Who were the most valuable contacts you made during the conference, and how can you maintain these connections? Don't let those valuable connections fade. Follow up with emails, LinkedIn requests, or other means to nurture relationships.
- What collaborative opportunities emerged from the conference, and what steps can you take to pursue them? Did you identify potential partners for future projects or research collaborations? Outline a plan to follow up and solidify these opportunities.
- What are the next steps you will take to foster ongoing dialogue with your newly established contacts? Regular interaction strengthens relationships and opens doors to future opportunities.
Putting it All into Action:
Implementing Learnings:
- What specific actions will you take to implement your learnings from the conference in the next 30, 60, and 90 days? Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals ensures accountability and progress.
- How will you measure the success of implementing these changes? Define clear metrics to track the impact of your new knowledge and strategies.
- How will you share your learnings with colleagues or your organization? Consider presenting at internal meetings, sharing summaries, or creating training materials based on the conference content. This benefits both you and your organization.
By actively engaging with these post-conference questions, you'll transform a passive conference experience into a catalyst for ongoing professional growth and impactful change within the field of TESS technology. Remember, the value of a conference extends far beyond its duration; it’s about the sustained action and implementation of the knowledge gained.
