(via Dr. Vinaya Tripuraneni, University Librarian at University of La Verne)
The Makerspaces for Innovation and Research in Academics (MIRA) conference planning Committee seeks proposals for its first inaugural annual conference at University of La Verne, La Verne, CA on July 12, 2018. The MIRA Conference seeks to bring together a group of makers, librarians, educators and practitioners for a day of presentations, workshops, discussions and networking. Sessions will include, but not limited to, the following areas:
- How to set up a makerspace (costs, safety, staffing, training, location, value and buy-in, etc.)
- How universities and schools are facilitating learning by making
- Role of makerspaces in libraries and museums
- Innovation and entrepreneurship through makerspaces
- Hands-on training using maker tools
- The future of makerspaces in education.
Session Types:
- Workshop (45 mins): This is a hands on training session. Presenter needs to bring their own equipment and supplies.
- Lightning Talk (5 mins): These are 5 minute sessions to share a quick overview of your ideas, experience, and programs.
- Presentation (20/45 mins): These sessions can include ideas, experiences, original research, engaging discussion questions or activities.
- Roundtable discussion (45 mins): These sessions will offer conversation in a casual, round table setting.
- Panel discussion (45 mins) : These sessions bring together 2-5 presenters into a cohesive conversation intended to engage audience members in a 45-minute session.
The deadline to submit a proposal is February 15, 2018. Notifications of acceptance will go out April 15, and Conference registration begins March 15. To submit a proposal, click here. If you have any questions, contact Vinaya Tripuraneni, Planning Committee Chair, at vtripuraneni@laverne.edu.