Initial thoughts from a first-timer

[canvas_admin]

Due to a 2 hour time difference, I am awake at 5:30am Utah time.   As I look forward to my first InstructureCon, I wonder if there can be a focus on newbies like myself for future conferences? Here are a few thoughts I've had about how InstructureCon can help first timers.

1. A meet and greet hour:  Maybe I speak for myself, but I am excited about this conference, but really have no idea what to expect. I think it would be cool if all first-timers could get together and share our expectations, excitement, uncertainties, etc.

2. A tips session:  I know some of you are pros out there (I'm talking about you  @kona ​ and  @clong ​). I would love to have tips, tricks, and insights from those who have

I also think there should be an early-arrivers hang out space as well. It may be small but for those of us who arrive early to mid-day on Monday, it would be cool to meet as a small group. Perhaps the early-arrivers could do a group trip to Park City or SLC for shopping, sightseeing, and good eats.

But then again, what do I know? I'm just a n00b.

[kona]

 @canvas_admin ​, I think some of the best tips can be found on The Best Session at #Instcon (isn't on the schedule) and Third Times the Charm!

My tips/tricks? Honestly, just talk to people - both Canvas employees and users. Don't feel strange starting up a conversation with someone you don't know. You never know when you might connect with someone and end up making a great connection. It's also amazing to hear the different ways people are using Canvas, and I always get great ideas to take home with me.

InstructureCon can be overwhelming, and yes, there is a LOT to take in, but take a deep breath and just embrace the crazy fun learning environment. There really isn't anything like it!

[ewander]

Mark,

I think it would be great for the first-timers to get together and chat! I'm all for that!

Erin

[marthazumack]

Agreed!

[biray]

Hey  @canvas_admin ​. As  @kona ​ mentioned - talk to people, anyone and everyone! And to add to that, most everyone is also in the community, too. So, once you meet them, be sure to follow them in the community so you can keep the conversations frequent and the relationships growing.

[ksauber]

Great ideas! I am in the same boat and can't wait to learn from everyone

this weekend!

On Tuesday, June 16, 2015, canvas.admin@rts.edu <instructure@jiveon.com>

[Renee_Carney]

And if you have any questions do not hesitate to Ask a Question on the InstructureCon 2015​ homepage and you'll get an answer from one of our amazing Canvas Coaches​, Community Team​, or other peers!!!

[kmeeusen]

Hi Mark, and welcome to your first instcon15-wed​. If you see and old grey-beard in a blue Hawaiian shirt (me) introduce yourself, and Ill pass on all I know or hook you up with my 13 year old granddaughter for some tips and tricks - this is her fourth InstCon, and she knows everything!

She'll be at the Wed. morning keynote with me, so keep your eyes out for us.

Kelley

[canvas_admin]

 @kmeeusen ​, we met Tuesday morning at the uncon​ but I'm sure you have met so many people, as have I, that you wouldn't remember.

[kmeeusen]

Mark:

While I am terrible with names, I do remember you, and that is because of your comment about "time zones".

Seemed like you were having as great a time as we were!

Kelley

[Ron_Bowman]

 @kmeeusen ​

At this rate, your granddaughter will be running the course page for her instructors in high school or college.  I imagine she knows more about Canvas than a lot of people.  Maybe she can hire out as a consultant and earn some cash

[kmeeusen]

Kait has already asked her if she plans on working for Instructure when she grows up:) That really pleased her.