Session Formats & How to Participate
The program offers a wide spectrum of session formats designed to support different ways of learning, engaging, and collaborating. Some sessions focus on big-picture vision, others on practical skill development, and still others on direct interaction with presenters. To help participants navigate these formats, this page provides a clear explanation of each, guidance on how to ask questions and share evidence effectively, and principles for conduct and accessibility. By understanding how to engage, attendees can make the most of their time and leave with insights that translate into real-world impact.
What Each Format Is For
Each format has been intentionally chosen to create variety, balance, and flexibility in learning. Understanding the purpose of each format will help you decide how to spend your time and what to expect.
Keynote
Keynotes are high-level sessions that set the tone and vision for the program. They bring thought leaders, pioneers, and experienced practitioners to share insights that affect the entire community. Keynotes do not typically go into detailed technical data but instead frame broad questions, highlight trends, and inspire collective reflection. Attendees should approach keynotes ready to consider the “big picture” and how it connects to their own work.
Panel
Panels bring together multiple voices around a shared topic. They are designed to highlight diverse perspectives, stimulate debate, and surface practical insights. Panelists may represent research, clinical practice, regulation, and industry, offering different angles on a single issue. Attendees benefit from seeing how perspectives converge or diverge, and from identifying where collaboration or further inquiry may be needed.
Workshop
Workshops are skill-based sessions emphasizing practice and application. Participants engage directly with methods, tools, or case examples. The emphasis is on hands-on activity, reflection, and peer learning. Workshops are ideal for attendees who want to return home with something concrete they can implement. Preparation may include reviewing materials in advance and being ready to contribute actively during the session.
Case Forum
A case forum focuses on real-world examples. Presenters share case studies—successes, challenges, and lessons learned. Discussions often include what worked, what did not, and what can be improved. These sessions are particularly valuable for practitioners who want to learn from others’ experiences and adapt strategies to their own contexts. Attendees should come prepared to ask clarifying questions and think about how the lessons could apply in their environment.
Poster Q&A
Poster Q&A sessions create a dynamic space for sharing data, especially preliminary or exploratory findings. Presenters summarize their posters in brief talks and then engage in discussion with attendees. These sessions encourage informal dialogue, constructive critique, and networking. For participants, Poster Q&A is an excellent way to discover emerging ideas, support colleagues, and provide feedback.
For a structured overview of the entire program, visit the Program Overview.
Asking Questions & Sharing Evidence
Active participation enriches sessions for everyone. Whether you are in a keynote, a panel, or a poster Q&A, thoughtful questions and respectful sharing of evidence enhance learning and dialogue.
Keep Questions Clear and Concise
State your question directly and avoid unnecessary background. Short, focused questions are easier for presenters to address and more likely to benefit the group.
Build on What’s Been Said
Link your question to a point made in the session. This shows you are listening and helps the presenter provide contextually relevant answers.
Use Plain Language
Avoid excessive jargon unless it is central to your point. Remember that sessions often bring together researchers, clinicians, regulators, and industry participants—clarity ensures everyone can follow.
Share Evidence Responsibly
If citing a study, explain it briefly in plain English. Highlight the finding most relevant to the discussion rather than reciting full details. This makes your contribution easier for others to understand and apply.
Be Respectful of Time
Allow space for others to ask questions too. If your topic requires extended discussion, consider following up after the session through Networking & Partnering.
Welcome Dialogue
The goal is not to prove a point but to open conversation. Questions that invite reflection, alternative perspectives, or next steps often yield the richest discussion.
By following these simple tips, you contribute to a culture of dialogue where everyone learns.
Code of Conduct
All participants share responsibility for maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment. The code of conduct is designed to ensure safety, fairness, and constructive engagement.
Respect
Treat all participants—presenters, moderators, and attendees—with dignity. Listen actively, avoid interruptions, and value diverse perspectives. Differences in opinion should be addressed with professionalism, not hostility.
Disclosures
When sharing information, disclose potential conflicts of interest. Transparency builds trust and helps others interpret contributions responsibly.
No PHI (Protected Health Information)
Patient privacy is paramount. Do not share identifying details, records, or protected health information in sessions, discussions, or posters. All case examples must be appropriately de-identified.
Inclusivity
Use language that is inclusive and accessible. Avoid assumptions about background, identity, or role. Everyone should feel welcome to participate.
Constructive Engagement
Debate ideas, not individuals. Critique should be aimed at strengthening science, practice, or policy—not at undermining people.
Violations of this code compromise the integrity of the program. Participants are encouraged to model these principles consistently and hold themselves accountable.
Accessibility & Time-Zone Flexibility
The program recognizes that participants join from many regions, time zones, and circumstances. Accessibility is therefore built into its design.
On-Demand Concept
Many sessions are available in an on-demand format. This allows participants who cannot attend live to access content at a convenient time. While real-time engagement is encouraged for interaction, on-demand access ensures inclusion regardless of geography.
Flexible Engagement
Participants can move between live sessions and recordings, choosing a pace that fits their schedule. This flexibility supports caregivers, professionals balancing clinical duties, and colleagues working across continents.
Accessibility Features
Sessions are designed with accessibility in mind, with features such as captioning and clear formatting. Slides and supporting materials are structured to be legible and user-friendly.
The goal is to ensure that every participant—regardless of time zone, ability, or schedule—can access the content and contribute meaningfully. For technical guidance, consult the Virtual Venue Guide.
Make the Most of a Breakout
Breakouts are among the most interactive and rewarding formats, but their value depends on preparation and engagement. Here are strategies for maximizing what you gain from a breakout session.
Pre-Read Materials
Whenever possible, review session materials in advance. Understanding the context before you join allows you to ask sharper questions and engage more actively.
Enter with Clear Goals
Decide what you want from the session: a specific insight, a networking opportunity, or a practical method to take home. This clarity helps you focus during the discussion.
Listen Actively
Breakouts thrive on dialogue. Listen carefully to others before speaking. Reflecting on their contributions can help you shape more relevant responses.
Contribute Takeaways
Offer your perspective concisely. Aim to share at least one takeaway that might help others. The goal is collective learning, not just personal benefit.
Capture Notes
Write down key points during the session. Summarizing insights afterwards helps reinforce learning and makes it easier to share with colleagues.
Follow Up
If you connect with someone or hear something you want to explore further, follow up after the session. Tools like Networking & Partnering provide structured ways to continue conversations.
Breakouts succeed when participants come prepared, listen well, and share openly.
Closing
Participating fully in the program is not only about attending sessions—it is about engaging with intention, respect, and curiosity. By understanding what each session format is for, asking clear questions, following the code of conduct, and making use of accessibility features, participants ensure that the program is inclusive and impactful.
Keynotes inspire, panels broaden perspective, workshops build skills, case forums share real-world lessons, and poster Q&A sessions highlight emerging science. With this variety comes the opportunity to chart a personal learning journey that is both rigorous and rewarding.
For additional context, explore the Program Overview, see presenter details in Speakers & Chairs, browse Abstracts & ePosters, or plan collaborations through Networking & Partnering. Questions about navigation and accessibility can be directed to the Virtual Venue Guide.
Together, these elements ensure that the program is more than a set of sessions—it is a living community of practice where knowledge is shared, challenged, and applied.