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FeedBackAye2003

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Well, I guess I'll start post-2003 AYE feedback with the following:

• I suggest that we extend the conference one day (or even two days) to allow for ad hoc sessions on synthesizing what we learned with our peers and trying to arrive at concrete things we will change upon our return to business reality. I propose that there be four sessions in the morning and four in the afternoon, each facilitated by a pair of the hosts, so that they don't get out of hand. This would enable people to reconcile all of the content they absorbed to construct usable models and principles to apply later. People could really work with fellow attendees (perhaps those they became closest with) to determine what they got out of the conference and how they'll assemble their discoveries to make real changes in their lives. I think the extra day would also allow people to reign in some of the exuberance they've built up during the conference and transition that excitement into more realistic and pragmatic perspectives on how they'll apply what they learned in "real life."
  
  
• I think we should ensure that each and every session have a lessons learned segment at the end, in which everyone participates and contributes their perspectives. I found that some of the most insightful comments came from my colleagues. Most of the sessions indeed had such an exercise (I can't remember the name used), but some did not. Others were wrapped up in a summary presented by the facilitator, without input from the participants. I know that time schedules had to be followed closely, but I firmly believe that the participants can bring the most insight and practical lessons to the table if they're given a chance.
  
  
• Lastly, I think we need follow-up electronic forums, besides those on this wiki, which allow people to continue their conversations and solicit direct feedback on ideas in an interactive environment like a chat room.
  
  
• Please refer to my AYE experience summary at JayPortnoy.

Thanks. JayPortnoy 2003.11.11

In response to Jay: Esther Derby's closing session, "Reflection Leading to Action" ( SessionThree028 ) was very helpful, particularly the final risk she asked us to take. I'm also considering joining SHAPE to get that extra day in a different form.

MikeMelendez 2003.11.12

Jay, you have some interesting ideas, but I feel the walls of a box closing in. Too much structure for me. One of the things I like best here is that I don't feel that I "have to" do anything or that anyone keeps me from "getting out of hand".

SherryHeinze 2003.11.16

Sherry, we may be on the same wavelength at least on the extra day, however quite frankly, in order for most of us to justify with our sponsors that extra day, there has to be some fundamental activity defined and going on at the conference, even if folks can option out. I tried to outline one possibility above.

JayPortnoy 2003.11.18