Proposal Steps and Review

The goal of the AMIA Conference is to present a broad-based program that speaks to a wide range of attendees with a balance of theory and practice, inviting new ideas and concepts that stimulate additional interest, involvement, and educational benefit. In keeping with ongoing membership discussions about diversity and inclusion, we urge proposers to use AMIA Conference sessions as an opportunity to include new voices and offer diverse viewpoints.

 

Proposal Steps

Session Formats

It is important that your session type match the description of your panel.  When the description and type do not match it’s difficult for the peer reviewers to know what is intended.

  • Report or Paper Presentation. Fully prepared papers/reports of 15-20 minutes each with 5 minutes of Q&A. Presentations are scheduled for 25 minute slots. Two 25 minute sessions are scheduled in each 60 minute time slot so it is critical that each presentation is fully contained within the 25 minutes allocated.
  • Panel. A 60 minute session consisting of a panel of three to four individuals who discuss a variety of theories or perspectives on the given topic. Panels are up to 40 minutes of presentation with 10 minutes of Q&A.
  • Forum/Conversation. A 60 minute session of informal presentations on a general subject area, where participants share what they know. Proposals in this category must include a facilitator who will coordinate the session and any discussion.
  • Lightning Talks Session. The session chair organizes and secures commitments from speakers and compiles all presentation slides to ensure timely speaker transitions. The session is 6-7 lively and informative five-minute talks in a 50-minute session format. Proposals in this category may suggest recommended presenters, but commitments should be secured soon after the proposal is accepted and can be done through curation or open call for speakers. Lightning Talks should be on a focused topic.
  • Screening Session. A 60 minute screening presentation. The session may include speakers/discussion but the screening portion should be minimum 40 minutes. Screening Sessions are done in meeting rooms during regular session slots.
  • Poster Presentation. Poster sessions occur during the lunch break in the Pavilion. Here is more information on posters.
  • Workshop. Workshops are a half day (3-4 hours) or full day (6-8 hours) training designed to teach or refine skills.

 

Proposal Review

All proposals are peer-reviewed by a panel chosen from the AMIA membership, including representatives from each AMIA Committee, who possess a broad range of expertise. Peer Reviewers comment on the overall quality of the proposal and consider these things:

  • Is the topic timely? Does it reflect current discussions in the field?
  • Is there new information being presented?
  • Is there an effort to bring in new voices on the subject?
  • How broad an audience does this topic speak to?
  • Has the topic been discussed already or been repeated frequently?
  • Is there a speaker outlined that is crucial to the success of the panel?
  • If a single presenter, does the proposal outline a clear perspective?
  • If a panel presentation, is a balanced point of view presented or are there other areas to be considered?

 

Proposal Checklist

  • I have downloaded a copy of the proposal form so I can review the information I will need to submit online.
  • I have selected a program category, goal, and session format.

  • My proposal includes speakers and/or facilitators with diverse points of view and experiences.

  • I have confirmed the participation of my speakers.

  • I have looked over the evaluation criteria to make sure my proposal hits all the points.

  • I have checked  to make sure I’ve answered all questions as fully as possible.

  • I have reviewed the AMIA Community Agreement and Code of Conduct.

  • I am ready to submit my online proposal here.
468 ad