Conference Proposal Frequently Asked Questions
Have you heard?! The Call for Proposals for NASAGA 2024 (October 16-19 in Atlanta, GA) is now open! You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers…read on!
Who attends the NASAGA conference and what’s it all about?
We’ve got a wonderfully diverse group of attendees. All of them are professionals (or emerging professionals) interested in the field of gaming and simulation for learning purposes. We get a lot of trainers, teachers, instructional designers and facilitators. If you love using games for learning (or just love the idea of it and want to learn more), you’re welcome at NASAGA!
Is there a conference theme?
Yep! This year’s conference theme is “Fair Play.” We’re encouraging presenters to structure their session in a way that considers the concept of Fair Play in innovative ways. For instance:
What it means to play “by the rules”
When it’s OK to break the rules
What it means to have a fair playing field
The connections between games and sports
Why should I present at NASAGA?
We’re glad you asked! Here’s some ways being a presenter at NASAGA pays off:
Save some money: Speakers attend the conference at a reduced rate if you register by the deadline.
Promotion: Whether you’re looking to gain some recognition within (and outside of) your company or make yourself known as an independent consultant, speaking at our conference offers a terrific promotional opportunity.
Networking: Take the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals, making new contacts or meeting old friends.
Knowledge sharing: Share your insights and unique knowledge with other professionals in the field.
OK, so I should just put in a proposal for the usual boring academic conference presentation: 50 slides that I’ll read verbatim and leave about 5 minutes for questions, right?
Um, NO. NASAGA is different. We pride ourselves on hosting sessions that are fun, engaging, and playful! Your session proposal has the best chance of being accepted if it:
Clearly demonstrates a connection to the theme.
Includes activities that engage participants, with minimal lecture.
Promotes research and best practices that participants can use in their work (as opposed to products or services for sale).
Your presentation can take one of three forms (and you can submit more than one!):
Concurrent sessions are 90 minutes. A concurrent session typically involves a playful experience and the opportunity to reflect on it.
Late afternoon workshops are 2 hours. Late afternoon sessions allow for the play of more complex games.
Poster sessions are typically 5 - 15 minute interactive discussions in small groups. These are great for showcasing new or emerging ideas that you’d like feedback on.
This is my first-ever presentation at an academic conference and I’m terrified. Talk me down off the ledge, please.
Hey, we’ve all been there! NASAGA is a great place for novice presenters to cut their teeth. The playful atmosphere and wide variety of sessions at NASAGA are really conducive for new presenters to show off their ideas. As part of the program development process, we provide feedback on your proposal and, as the conference draws closer, your session plan and materials.
Okay, you sold me. How do I submit and what’s the deadline?
Hooray! Submit by clicking on this link and filling out the Google Form. Please fill out one Form for every session you want to present (e.g., one form each for a poster and a concurrent session). Submit your proposal by July 1st, and we’ll let you know if it’s accepted by July 28th.
I have a question that isn’t covered by this exceptionally well-written and thorough FAQ. How do I get it answered?
Happy to help. Click here to generate an email and our Communications Minion will get you in touch with the right people.
See you in Atlanta!
