Who should attend the BCCE?
The conference is a welcoming environment open to anyone interested in improving the teaching and learning of chemistry. Some attendees are practitioners, others are researchers, many are both. We welcome educators at all levels (e.g., K-12, university-level, informal education/outreach, etc.) as well as students (undergraduate, graduate). We also encourage non-chemists to attend to promote cross-disciplinary discussions and facilitate conversations from different perspectives.
What does the BCCE have for K-12 teachers?
The conference is open for K-12 teachers and we encourage you to attend. Most of the extant research related to chemistry education has focused on a general chemistry (university) context; however, research about evidence-based practices and students’ reasoning processes (e.g., student-centered approaches, assessment practices, student cognition) are relevant and can be applied to the K-12 level. Moreover, in recent years there has been a focus on research related to the K-12 level, particularly in response to national-level changes (e.g., Next Generation Science Standards). That said, many of the researchers in our community focus on a K-12 context and encourage you to expand your network and familiarity with the resources and research relevant to your teaching.
I have never attended the BCCE before, what should I know before deciding to attend?
The conference will be organized topically based on our four conference themes (Classroom Practice and Learning Environments, Curriculum and Cognition, Assessment and Research Methods, Professional Development). Individual talks will vary with respect to emphasis on research/methods and instruction/practice. As the conference date approaches, more information about specific talks will be made available. Based on your interest in the themes listed you may be more or less inclined to attend.
How many presentations and what types of presentations can I make at the BCCE?
The BCCE follows the “rule of two”. Thus, the maximum number of presentations you can make should reflect one of the following combinations:
- 2 papers
- 2 posters
- 2 workshops
- 1 paper and 1 poster
- 1 paper and 1 workshop
- 1 poster and 1 workshop
You can be a second (third, fourth, etc.) non-presenting co-author on as many abstract submissions as you wish, but keep in mind we only look for schedule conflicts where you are a presenter. Unfortunately, we cannot look for conflicts when you are listed as a co-author.
Do I have to present research in order attend?
No, you do not have to present research or organize a symposium/workshop in order to attend. You are more than welcome to join us, learn, and meet new people!
What are Birds of a Feather?
There will be “Birds of a Feather” (BoaF) sessions scheduled where conference participants may gather to discuss topics of a common interest – e.g., online chemistry learning, online laboratory, AP chemistry, organic chemistry, capstone laboratory experiences, inclusive pedagogies, etc. Please consider proposing a BoaF session or attending sessions organized by others.
How do I access WiFi on campus?
If you are coming to UK from an Eduroam campus, you may connect with your existing credentials. Additional information about Eduroam and guest access is available at https://www.uky.edu/wifihelp/campus.html
Are there gender-inclusive restrooms on campus?
Gender-inclusive restrooms are available throughout campus, including the Gatton Student Center and Jacobs Science Building (where many conference events will take place). A map of all locations is available on the interactive campus map at https://maps.uky.edu/campusmap. Use the layers feature (see screenshot below) to identify all locations.
How accessible is your campus?
Many spaces used for the conference, including housing, were built within the last ten years so accessibility was a key component in their design. See all accessible paths and entrances (zoom to see location of automatic and manual doors) at https://maps.uky.edu/campusmap. Use the layers feature (see screenshot below) to identify all locations. Printable maps (in color and black & white) are available at https://maps.uky.edu/printablemaps/ Apps such as Google Maps also have detailed campus maps and can be used for turn-by-turn directions.
Are lactation rooms available on campus?
As a leader in healthcare in Kentucky, we recognize the importance of breastfeeding. Lactation rooms are available throughout campus. Locations are available at https://maps.uky.edu/campusmap. Use the layers feature (see screenshot below) to identify all locations. An additional lactation room will also be available in the Jacobs Science Building (location TBA).
Are there any childcare options available?
The conference will not be providing childcare options but we will share a list of resources here that we will update as we learn of new opportunities. Our listing here is not an endorsement of any program or provider.
- University of Kentucky Childcare Resources https://hr.uky.edu/work-life-and-well-being/working-parents/child-care-resources
- Explorium Camps https://explorium.com/
- Centenary Methodist Church https://www.lexchurch.com/content.cfm?id=542#Summer
- YMCA https://ymcacky.org/programs/camps/summer-day-camp (Maxwell Elementary is the closest location to campus)
- Lexington Summer Camps https://lexingtonsummercamps.com
- Camp Redwood https://redwoodcoop.org/camp-redwood/
Come back to this page as more information will be added.