Definitions (Preview)
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Hi there, everyone! Before we get into the bid section of the survey, we would like to take a moment to define some of the terms we use throughout this survey. Please make sure you read this section; it ensures that everyone is on the same page, and no one signs up for a panel type or position that they do not intend to.
1. Talk. A "lecture" style seminar given by one (or more) presenters. Covers a single topic in depth; often includes specific examples from the panelists' experiences. Typical Format is Talk (30min) followed by Q&A (45min)
2. Mini-Talk. A shorter (10-15 min) presentation. May be combined with other Mini-talks on a theme. Typical format is 2-3 Mini-Talks (30-45min) followed by Q&A (30-45min)
3. Micro-Talk. A really short (5 min) presentation. Will be combined with other Micro-talks on a theme. Typical format is 8-12 Micro-Talks in a session, no format Q&A.
4. Moderated Panel. A panel with three to five panelists plus a moderator. The panel will have a single, moderately broad topic, with the moderator providing specific questions within that topic for the panelists to answer. Panels will generally have a range of viewpoints and experiences within the panelists, in order to facilitate a brisk discussions of ideas and opinions.
5. Moderated Roundtable. A group discussion with a moderator to keep the conversation moving and on track. The panel will have a moderately specific topic to begin with, and all attendees will be able to make their voices heard.
6. Workshop. A hands-on panel where participants try out an activity under the guidance of the workshop organizer(s).
7. Roundtable. An open discussion, often seeded with a general topic. While roundtables generally don't have organizers as such, we are still taking ideas for roundtable discussions to occur at the convention.
1. Speaker. Speakers give talks (or Mini/Micro-Talks). They have a planned topic, as well as a general path already prepared for the bulk of the talk. They sometimes will prepare powerpoint slides, pictures, or other media to accompany their talk.
2. Panelist. Panelists sit on a panel of 3-5 people. The panel topic is one in which they have at least some experience, although this experience can take several forms. (For example, knowledge of casting forms can come from being a player or a GM.) Different panelists will generally have at least somewhat differing opinions on the panel topic. They will answer questions prepared beforehand by the moderator, and will do the bulk of talking for the length of the panel.
3. Moderator (Panel.) Panel moderators will create the questions for the panelists. They will guide the flow of the panel, ensuring that each panelist gets a chance to speak, and that no one panelist monopolizes the conversation. They will also make sure that the panel moves along and doesn't get bogged down in any particular place. Panel moderators are may or may not be panelists themselves; the moderator primary task is to make sure the panel is working smoothly.
4. Moderator (Roundtable.) Roundtable moderators make sure that everyone in the roundtable who wishes to speak can do so, that side conversations are kept to a minimum, and that the general topic of the roundtable is being discussed. Roundtable moderators generally also participate in the conversation, although they must make sure they do not monopolize the conversation. Roundtable Moderator should prepare some questions to shape or start the conversation.
5. Workshop Presenter. Workshop presenters provide hands-on guidance for the workshop that they have created. They show practical examples of whatever they are presenting on, and guide the attendees in trying it out for themselves.