About 3,000 evaluators, evaluation scholars, students, and evaluation users from around the world are headed to Atlanta to gather together and learn about the latest advancements in the discipline and practice of evaluation.

Association:  American Evaluation Association

Conference: Evaluation 2016

Venue: Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Following a few days of workshops, Evaluation 2016 begins on Monday afternoon with an opening keynote where presenters will dive into the conference theme—Evaluation + Design—and discuss three areas where they intersect. Other agenda items worth noting:

Buddy up. For the fourth year running, AEA will host an International Buddy Program where U.S.-based evaluators will be paired with international attendees based on compatibility. Before the meeting, the pair will be able to exchange emails and get to know each other. Then, once onsite, they’ll have multiple opportunities to meet up and learn about evaluation practices in their respective countries.

Prep work. To get presenters prepared for the conference, AEA has put together a webpage with speaker tools and resources. Among them: a presentation preparation checklist and a link to its Audience Engagement Strategy Book, which offers 20-plus ways for speakers to connect with their audience and keep them involved.

Volunteer time. Students are encouraged to attend the meeting. And a budget-friendly way to do so is to serve as a volunteer: Students who participate will have their registration fee waived. Volunteers will serve in a number of roles, including as mobile app assistants, photographers, and PowerPoint specialists.

Turn to Twitter (#Eval16) and Facebook for other conference details.

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