Birds of a Feather Proposal Guidelines for BCCE 2026

Birds-of-a-Feather (BoaF) sessions are informal, discussion-based gatherings that bring together conference participants around a shared topic, interest, or professional context. BoaFs are designed to support networking, dialogue, and community sensemaking rather than formal presentation. At the Biennial Conference on Chemical Education (BCCE) 2026, BoaFs provide space for participants to connect around topics such as instructional approaches, disciplinary subfields, institutional contexts, emerging challenges, or shared professional roles. Examples include (but are not limited to): online chemistry learning, AI in instruction, AP chemistry, organic chemistry teaching, capstone laboratory experiences, inclusive pedagogies, or program leadership.

BoaF session formats

Structured conversations

Structured conversation BoaFs are lightly facilitated discussions that:

  • are less formal than talks or workshops
  • bring participants together around a clearly defined topic
  • benefit from a general agenda or guiding questions
  • may make use of technology (computer hookup or projector) if requested

These sessions are well suited for shared problem-solving, idea exchange, and collective reflection.

Meet-and-greet sessions

Meet-and-greet BoaFs are informal gatherings that:

  • do not involve structured discussion
  • focus on introductions and networking
  • may serve as a starting point for additional meetings during conference free time

These sessions are particularly useful for building new connections within the community.

Scheduling and timing

Advance-proposed BoaF sessions that are accepted will appear in the conference program and should be one hour in length and are scheduled during the lunch block:

  • 12:00–1:00 p.m. or
  • 1:00–2:00 p.m.

BoaFs may be scheduled during the first or second half of the lunch period.

As topics of interest arise during the conference, additional BoaFs may also be proposed on site, subject to space availability.

Submitting a BoaF abstract

Advance proposals for Birds-of-a-Feather sessions should include:

  • A title for the session
  • The name and contact information of the BoaF organizer
  • A brief abstract describing:
    • the theme or focus of the conversation
    • the audience most likely to be interested in participating

Abstract length: maximum 300 words

👉 Submit BoaF abstracts via ExOrdo: https://bcce2026.exordo.com/

Review process

BoaF proposals are reviewed with attention to:

  • clarity of the proposed topic
  • relevance to the chemistry education community
  • suitability for a discussion-based format

Advance-proposed BoaFs that are accepted will appear in the conference program with the listed topic and location.

Important Dates

All deadlines are firm deadlines

  • Advance BoAF abstract submission opens: January 12, 2026
  • Advance BoAF abstract submission opens: March 1, 2026 (for inclusion in published program)
  • BoaF abstract review and session scheduling completed: March 31, 2026
  • Program schedule posted: June 1, 2026

Organizer expectations and policies

By submitting a Birds-of-a-Feather abstract, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

If your abstract is accepted:

  • You will be required to register for BCCE 2026
  • BCCE cannot provide registration, lodging, or travel support, nor offer discounts for organizers or participants

We look forward to your contributions to BCCE 2026 and to the conversations they will spark within the chemistry education community.