Conference overview
Learning sciences research explores the nature and conditions of learning as it occurs in educational environments, broadly construed. The learning sciences field draws upon multiple theoretical perspectives and research paradigms in order to understand the complexities associated with human learning, cognition, and development. The Seventh International Conference of the Learning Sciences will be held from June 27th through July 1st, 2006, at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana (USA).
Making a Difference
The theme for ICLS 2006 is Learning Sciences: Making a Difference. Over the last two decades the Learning Sciences community has developed powerful technological tools, effective curricular interventions, and innovative theories for understanding and improving the teaching and learning process.
While learning scientists can present rich accounts of learning in complex contexts, convincing policy makers, teachers, and other researchers of the theoretical and practical value of our work is not a straightforward process. We must show impact at the local level while at the same time, work to have claims of more global significance. In other words, we must make clear that the learning sciences make a difference.
ICLS 2006 will focus on demonstrating how our work is making a difference: to students, teachers, schools, and policy makers; to research methods; to theories and models of learning, instruction, and assessment. We anticipate lively discussions among scientists from around the world. The conference will take place at Indiana University in beautiful Bloomington, Indiana. We look forward to seeing you there.
Proposals
Conference proposals will be accepted for individual papers, symposia, posters, and innovative sessions designed to more effectively engage the audience. These proposals will be refereed and if accepted, will be included in the published conference proceedings. We will also accept proposals for Pre-conference Workshopss and for participation in the pre-conference doctoral consortium. Proposals that address the conference theme, examining the impact of learning sciences work on policy or scalable effects on learning, will be given a priority. More generally, a representative, although not exhaustive, list of the kinds of research studies appropriate for the conference includes:
- orchestration and study of complex learning environments
- design and study of new learning technologies or the appropriation and use of technology by a learning community
- theory-building and/or empirical study of fundamental aspects of learning, cognition, and development
- examining the nature of disciplinary practices and knowledge
- documentation of learning as it occurs in various natural contexts including schools, homes & communities, museums, after-school clubs, and professional work settings
- studies of social interaction and collaboration as they relate to learning
- critical examination of research methods and related issues associated with the study of human learning
- research on the processes of organizational change within educational institutions or policy studies as they intersect specifically with issues of learning
Important Deadlines
| November 1, 2005 | Submission deadline for papers, posters, symposia, and innovative session |
| January 15, 2006 | Submission deadline for Workshops |
| February 6, 2006 | Conference Registration Open |
| March 1, 2006 | Submission deadline for Doctoral Consortium |
| May 15, 2006 | Deadline for early registration |
| June 27 to July 1, 2006 |
ICLS 2006 conference in Bloomington, Indiana |
| June 27-28 | Workshops and Doctoral Consortium |
| June 28-July 1 | Conference Sessions |
Vendors
ICLS 2006 will support vendor displays. Please contact the conference chairs at for further details.
