Research showcase opportunity offered as conference goes online

In 2021, the traditional poster presentation – a chance for researchers not included on the main conference program to present their work to an in-person conference audience – has been reimagined as a short video explainer. Submissions are open until 9 July and successful entries will be broadcast during the conference to its influential audience of educators, policymakers and academics.

ACER Senior Research Fellow and Conference Program Chair Dr Claire Scoular said it was a valuable opportunity for early career researchers, Masters students and doctoral candidates, and educators undertaking research to bring their ideas to a wider audience.

“The traditional poster presentation format allowed people outside the main conference program to take advantage of a gathering of engaged colleagues keen to share research and explore new ideas”, Dr Scoular said. “A virtual conference brings even more exciting opportunities to reach new audiences around the world, and to experiment with format.

“While not everyone can travel to a conference in a capital city, most of us have access to the tools necessary for recording a short video, on our computers or phones, or through free public resources like libraries.”

While submissions will not be evaluated for inclusion on production values, some criteria must be met, such as addressing the conference theme (‘Excellent progress for every student: What will it take?’) and a clear and valid theory or evidence base for the research. Full conditions can be found on the conference website. Successful entrants will receive free attendance at Research Conference 2021 (worth $150).