# 7 Ways to Prepare for Your Next EdTech Conference

Date October 22, 2024

Written by: [Hallie Kilavos »](/content/resources/blog/author/halliekilavos/index.html)

Attending an EdTech conference can be motivating and inspiring, but with packed schedules and dozens of booths, it can also be overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to go in with a plan. Here are actionable tips that will help you stay energized and focused to maximize your experience:

### 1. Define Your Goals

The first step is figuring out what you want to achieve. Ask yourself:

- **What’s my focus for learning?** Prioritize sessions that align with your interests—AI, cybersecurity, technology tools, etc.
- **What’s my priority at the event?** Is it team bonding, attending sessions, networking, or learning from other districts?
- **What problems am I trying to solve?** Keep this in mind when talking with other districts and choosing your sessions.

### 2. Research Vendors and Sessions

Before attending, take time to dive into the list of exhibitors and speakers:

- **Shortlist vendors** offering products or services that match your goals, so you’re not wandering aimlessly through the expo.
- **Check speaker bios** and session details ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on learning from industry leaders.
- Save events to your calendar so you don’t forget.

### 3. Make Vendor/Partner Networking Easier

Save time at vendor booths by creating pre-made cards with your information. That way, you won’t have to write your details at every booth in a crowded space. Print small slips with:

- Name
- Email and/or phone
- School name
- Address

### 4. Pack the Essentials

Long days at conferences can leave you feeling drained. Here’s how to stay energized:

- **Bring a refillable water bottle** and consider adding Liquid IV for extra hydration. Electrolytes are also helpful after a late night with your team.
- Pack **light snacks** like trail mix or protein bars to keep fueled throughout the day.
- Don’t forget your **coffee fix**—conferences often don’t offer afternoon coffee, so bring your own or find a nearby café.
- **Hand sanitizer** is a must with all the handshakes and crowd interaction.
- **Pain reliever** for those inevitable headaches or aches after a full day on your feet.
- **Airborne** or similar immune-boosting vitamins to keep you healthy.
- **Travel-size deodorant**—enough said!
- **Phone charger or power bank.** Your phone will get plenty of use, and while there are often outlets near booths or session rooms, it’s better to be prepared.

### 5. Comfortable Clothing is a Must

Walking around exhibit halls and attending sessions all day can be tough:

- Wear **comfortable shoes.** If you don’t, pack some band-aids for blisters!
- **Dress in layers** to stay comfortable with changing room temperatures.
- Bring a **backpack or tote** to carry personal items and vendor handouts.

### 6. Use Conference Apps and Twitter

Most EdTech conferences have an app that gives you easy access to maps, schedules, and updates:

- **Download the app** ahead of time to read through the schedule. Sometimes there are evening events or giveaways you won’t want to miss.
- Follow the conference **hashtag on Twitter** for real-time updates on announcements, sessions, and networking opportunities.

### 7. Take Notes and Debrief When It’s Done

Takeaways are only useful if you remember them. Make sure you:

- **Take notes** during sessions and jot down key contacts and ideas.
- **Book meetings** with vendors in advance so you don’t have to chase follow-ups later—you’ll already have set times.
- **Reflect and debrief** with your team afterward. Discuss what worked, what didn’t, and how you’ll approach the next conference. This sets the stage for a clear path forward.

It’s taken me a year of attending conferences to figure this out, but now I’m in a rhythm. With a little preparation, I hope you can make the most out of your next EdTech conference.

### References:

- Mimio Classroom Technology Blog
- [Teaching Forward](https://teachingforward.net/conference-tips/)
- [The Edvocate](https://www.theedadvocate.org/making-the-most-of-your-edtech-conference/)
- [Showbie](https://blog.showbie.com/resources)