Upcoming teaching and learning Conferences on in December 2025

Premier Events:

• ISTE Live (International Society for Technology in Education)
• Learning Forward Annual Conference
• EDUCAUSE Annual Conference

Specialty Conferences:

• SXSW EDU
• ASCD Annual Conference
• International Conference on Teaching & Learning

Submission Process:

1. Check deadlines ( 3-9 months in advance )
2. Prepare:

• Proposal (500-1,000 words; often includes objectives, methods, outcomes)
• Supporting materials (videos, lesson plans, student work samples)

1. Presentation formats:

• Interactive workshops (most valued)
• Research paper sessions
• Poster presentations
• Lightning talks (5-10 minute showcases)

Pro Tip: Many conferences prioritize classroom practitioners over pure researchers.

Registration Fees:

Funding Sources:

• Title II professional development funds (U.S. public schools)
• University teaching excellence grants
• Vendor sponsorships (often available for tech-focused conferences)
• Association scholarships (e.g., ISTE has equity-focused grants)

Virtual Benefits:
✓ Lower cost (typically

200−

200− 400)
✓ Access to international presenters
✓ On-demand sessions for 3-6 months

In-Person Advantages:
✓ Hands-on maker spaces and tech demos
✓ Networking with textbook publishers
✓ School visit opportunities (some conferences)

Hybrid Note: EDUCAUSE offers "Global Online" tracks alongside in-person.

Educator's Essentials Checklist:

• Tablet/laptop with presentation backups
• Business cards with LinkedIn/portfolio link
• Portable charger (outlets are scarce)
• Comfortable shoes (expect 5+ miles of walking daily)
• Empty tote bag (for vendor freebies and books)

Pro Strategies:

1. Use the conference app (ISTE's is particularly robust)
2. Attend "lesson plan exchange" sessions
3. Visit the startup pavilion (where new edtech tools debut)
4. Follow conference hashtags (#ISTE2025 #SXSWEDU)

Credit Opportunities:

• ASCD (1 graduate credit available through their university partners)
• Learning Forward (CEUs accepted in most U.S. states)
• ISTE (Certification programs available)

Always verify with your district/school for acceptance.

Hot Education Topics:

• AI literacy for educators
• Trauma-informed pedagogy
• Microcredentialing systems
• Esports in education
• Neurodiverse teaching strategies

Selection Guide: