Educators' Science and Fiction Seminar

Program Description

The MidSouthCon Educators' Science and Fiction Seminar is a cross functional conference hosted by the MidSouthCon convention. Conference panelists include award winning authors, editors, artists, and scientists for a weekend of workshops and discussions on such topics as the craft of fiction and nonfiction writing and publishing, science, and the arts in the classroom. Completion of this seminar will earn one Continuing Education Unit, as certified by the University of Memphis. Set within the Midsouth's premiere Science Fiction and Fantasy convention, paid registration for the Educators' Science and Fiction Seminar includes full access to MidSouthCon weekend events.

To register for the seminar, use the "Educators' Seminar - CEU" link on the Registration Page. For further information, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Download the flyer >>here<<

 

Educators' Seminar Schedule

Program Outline and Daily Schedule

Friday, March 12, 2010

6:00-7:00 P.M. Educators' Seminar Orientation
Facilitators: Jackie Gamber, Kara Ferguson 
Description: Introduces participants to MidSouthCon in general and the Educators' Seminar in particular; to include requirements, overview, and pertinent information. This is not included in the ten hour minimum for the CEU certificate.

7:00-8:00 P.M. Juggling Multiple Projects
Panelists: M.R. Williamson, David Blalock, Angelia Sparrow, Stephanie Osborn 
Description: Everyone needs more time in the day. Our panelists provide insight and instruction on time management that can be applied to writing projects and other professional goals.

8:00-9:00 P.M. Grabbing Attention with Great Openings
Panelists: Glen Cook, Jeremy Lewis, Laura Underwood, Sherrilyn Kenyon 
Description: In fiction and non-fiction alike boring beginnings will not take a reader past the first page. In this panel participants will learn ways to capture their audience.

Saturday, March 13, 2010

9:00-10:00 A.M. What Do We Do When We Teach Science Fiction?
Panelist: Maura Heaphy 
Description: Ohio State Senior Lecturer Maura Heaphy discusses themes and approaches for teaching Science Fiction as form.

10:00-11:00 A.M. Encouraging Tomorrow's Creative Minds Today
Panelists: Ellen Gamber, Lynn Stranathan, Katie Jones, Melinda LaFevers 
Description: Educators and local students discuss techniques to address the challenges of encouraging creative processes in young minds.

11:00-12:00 P.M. If You Like... Try...
Panelists: Maura Heaphy, Laura Underwood, Glen Cook, Lou Anders 
Description: Science Fiction experts and librarians offer insight into "read-alikes": how to help others find new reading material based on old favorites.

1:00-2:00 P.M. Writing for Expression
Panelists: John Beifuss, Joy Ward, Stephen Zimmer, Windsong Levitch 
Description: A mixed-bag panel of writing professionals discuss various writing pursuits such as: journaling, blogging, and other means of written expression.

2:00-3:00 P.M. NASA Update
Panelists: Les Johnson 
Description: NASA Physicist and MENSA member Les Johnson gives an update on current development at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

3:00-5:00 P.M. Things I Wish a Pro Had Told Me (2 hours)
Panelists: Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta 
Description: New York Times bestselling authors give in-depth advice on how to be a professional writer.

5:00-6:00 P.M. Speculative Fiction Writing Trends
Panelists: Maura Heaphy, Laura Underwood, M. Keaton, Glen Cook 
Description: From then to now--panelists discuss what we can learn from reading the classics.

To register for the seminar, use the "Educators' Seminar - CEU" link on the Registration Page.

   

Mission

Our primary focuses are literacy and education. To that end, we have held an annual convention in Memphis, TN for over two decades hosting numerous authors, editors, scientists, and artists. We also hold a free seminar for educators and librarians, a writers' conference with workshops by award winning authors and editors, and annual student art and writing contests.

Non-Profit

MidSouthCon is presented by Mid-South Science and Fictions Conventions Inc. a non-profit type 501(c)(3) Corporation. Donations are welcome (and are tax deductible).

Contact

Address: MidSouthCon
P.O. Box 17724
Memphis, TN 38187-0724
info@midsouthcon.org
www.midsouthcon.org