**apologies for cross-posting. . . please forward to anyone who might be

interested**

 

BRITISH INTERACTIVE GROUP CONFERENCE – The BIG Event!

MANCHESTER

JULY 27TH – 29TH 2006

 

CALL FOR SESSION PROPOSALS

 

 

The British Interactive Group (BIG) is an organisation for individuals involved in all aspects of hands-on exhibitions and activities. BIG aims to improve understanding of the potential of hands-on and the role it can play in may contexts, to encourage high professional standards and act as a voice for all people working with interactivity. (Visit our website at www.big.uk.com)

 

Each year BIG holds its annual conference (The BIG Event) with delegates from across the UK, Europe and worldwide. This year the BIG Event is being held at the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester, with sessions in both the modern conference facilities and events and shows live on the exhibition floor. Evening events will be held on the nights of the 27^th and 28^th, giving everyone a chance to unwind and get to know other BIG members!

 

The BIG Event is relevant not only for people working in science centres and museums, but for artists, presenters, archaeologists, educators, students, front of house staff, evaluators and anyone involved in interactive communication whatever their field.

 

The BIG Executive Committee is currently seeking proposals for sessions at the 2006 Big Event. This year’s Event is focused on the following three themes:

 

Ourselves (professional development, skills and best practice, working freelance)

Our organizations (management, operational and communication issues)

Our audiences (shows, workshop, exhibits, diversity and audience development)

 

If you are interested in taking an active role in this year's BIG Event, then email a draft title for your proposed session, a brief description (up to 75 words), and details of likely participants to Savita Custead, Co-ordinator of the BIG Event, by 22nd February 2006 ([log in to unmask]).

 

The British Interactive Group executive will evaluate proposals in late February 2006 and devise an outline programme soon afterwards.

 

More about successful proposals:

 

• Each session must have a convenor, and usually no more than three speakers / presenters (one of whom may be the convenor)
• Session time slots are usually 1 – 1.5 hours. Shorter proposals may be combined with others on a related topic at the BIG Executive's discretion.
• Please indicate the likely duration of your session to help us develop the conference programme
• The registration fee is waived for speakers on the day of their session, or alternatively speakers can take advantage of a special discounted rate if they register for the full conference. However, unless there are exceptional circumstances, BIG cannot pay appearance fees, travel costs or other expenses incurred by convenors / speakers.
• There is room for flexibility in the way sessions are organised and run, and we are happy to help where we can. If you have any questions, want help in developing a session idea, or want to run an initial concept by us, then email Savita Custead, ([log in to unmask])