Speed Networking Lounge

Overview |  About   |  Lounge Uses  |  Schedule  |  Committee Members

Overview

Arguably one of the best features of conference attendance is the ability to network with colleagues from across the country.  From sharing ubiquitous challenges to collaborating on solutions and innovations, these connections allow us to scale the impact of our work supporting students. But how do you make your time networking meaningful, especially if you are a person who finds it to be awkward or intimidating?

Welcome to the OLC Accelerate Speed Networking Lounge, an informal conversation space that allows participants to connect with fellow attendees through lightweight, collaborative activities.  All are welcome to pop into the space at any time during the conference, using the area for informal chats, co-working, or reflections. The lounge is meant to be used like a hummingbird – you zip in and get a quick fill of inspiration before you fly off to the next awesome conference activity.  Our hope is that you will use the space throughout the conference to collaboratively explore emerging digital pedagogy.

About the Lounge

Located on the side of the Exhibit Hall (Atlantic Hall), the Speed Networking Lounge is open for anyone to hang out at any time that the exhibit hall space is open.  During the Networking Breaks, we will have some special activities planned, tasty snacks and drinks, as well as the opportunity to win prizes. We’re trying to support your zipping in and out, but you may not want to leave…

Can I bring a group of my colleagues with me to the lounge?

Of course!  For those looking for an area of the conference that is a little quieter for conversations with colleagues, but not as quiet as the Sanctuary Room (Europe 4), the Speed Networking Lounge is your perfect location.

But what if I am attending the conference on my own? Is the space for solo visitors too?

This space was MADE for those coming by on their own.  Simply stop by on your own to meet other attendees looking to meet, chat, connect and (hopefully) keep in touch!  You can also engage with some of the participants asynchronously with interactive spaces and puzzles that will remain in the space for you to start and others to finish.  Best of all, even if you don’t come with a group, you can also invite new people that you’ve met throughout the conference to meet up later in the space.

Keep In Touch

We’ll have a ton going on in the Speed Networking Lounge, but if there are tasks, activities and opportunities that you want to see in the space, let us know!  We want you to connect in a way that is impactful and easy, and welcome your feedback.
You can reach out to your Lounge Leader, Angela Gunder, at @angelagunder or angela.gunder@gmail.com.

Lounge Uses

So what exactly can you do in the Speed Networking Lounge? And how can you make the most of your time in the space?  Here are 10 easy ways connect with your colleagues in a meaningful and comfortable way!

1. Recharge Over a Puzzle
   It’s easier to chat casually over a shared task, and what better way to recharge and refocus than tackling a puzzle with someone else.

    

2. Leave a Problem, Take a Problem
   Crowdsource the power of the conference by bringing questions and challenges you currently face.  Leave them on one of our interactive walls with your contact information. Others who are interested in working with you on the problem can take your information and reach out to work on the challenge with you.

    

3. Extend Conversations from a Session
   After attending an amazing presentation, you often want to take a little time to connect the ideas shared with the work you’re doing at your home institution.  Ask the presenter and/or other folks that stuck around after the session asking additional questions if they’d want to continue the conversation in the lounge.

    

4. Solve a Team Problem
   Are you attending the conference with members of your organization? Or maybe your colleagues from other institutions are present?  Plan a time to take over the lounge for an amazing co-working session.

    

5. Meet Up with a Social Media Friend IRL
   Following someone awesome on Twitter that you’ve discovered is also at the conference?  Tweet them and ask to meet up in real life in the lounge. If you come during a Networking Break, you can chat over specialty snacks and maybe win an awesome prize.

    

6. Bring a Wingperson
   If you’re anxious about networking, consider bringing a friend along with you. It can be easier to approach and meet people when you have someone else by your side. And when you do split up, you can contact-swap the interesting people you meet.

    

7. Come Early, Come Often
   As you fill your brain with all sorts of new ideas, you may find yourself needing a space to collect your thoughts and connect them to the work that you are doing at your home institution.  Use the space as your home base and keep coming back whenever you need to regroup.

When should I come by?

There are different activities set at different times, so take a look at the schedule below to get a sense of when you might best engage with the space:

		Angela Gunder, The University of Arizona
		Jessica Knott, Michigan State University
		Ben Scragg, Arizona State University

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