Types of Conference Sessions & Presentations
| Session Type | Session Description |
| Discussion Group (45 minutes, 3 presenters max.) | An opportunity to discuss a hot topic in TESOL in a structured roundtable format. The discussion leader(s) should have a strong knowledge of the designated topic and should include the audience in the discussion. |
| Panel Presentation (45 minutes or 90 minutes, 2 or more presenters) | Two or more individuals speak, leaving at least 10-15 minutes for audience questions and responses. In one format, each speaker may present 15 to 20 minutes. In another format, each speaker may make brief opening remarks (for example, 5 minutes) before the panel enters into a moderated discussion. |
| Poster Session (45 minutes, 2 presenters max.) | A visually explanatory exhibit that allows for short, informal discussion between the presenter(s) and attendees, as attendees circulate within the poster-session area. Poster sessions serve as an important and interactive forum for sharing professional ideas and for receiving feedback. |
| Practice-Oriented Presentation (45 minutes, 3 presenters max.) | A session that shows, as well as tells, a technique for teaching or testing. The presenter should spend no more than 10 minutes explaining the underlying theory. |
| Research-Oriented Presentation (45 minutes, 3 presenters max.) | An oral summary with occasional reference to notes or a text that discusses the presenters’ topic and work in relation to theory and/or practice. |
| Roundtable Discussion (45 minutes, 1 presenter) | Peer-to-peer facilitated discussions with a small group of attendees. The facilitator should have a strong knowledge of the topic and be able to engage everyone in the discussion. |
| Workshop (45 minutes or 90 minutes; 6 presenters max.) | A carefully structured, hands-on professional development activity. The presenter(s) and participants tackle a problem or develop specific teaching or research techniques. |