Spring 2021 Proposal Information

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 50 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 50 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. Session will be a meeting format on Zoom, with attendees visible and able to speak.
  • Lightning Talks. 5-7 lively and informative five-minute talks in a 50-minute session format. The session chair secures commitments from speakers and compiles all presentation slides to ensure timely speaker transitions. Proposals in this category may suggest recommended presenters, but commitments should be secured soon after the proposal is accepted. Lightning Talks should be on a focused topic.
  • Screening Session. A 50 minute screening presentation. The session may include speakers/discussion but the screening portion should be minimum 35 minutes.
  • Poster Presentation. A 5 minute pre-recorded session with a poster image. The poster image will be posted to the conference website. Posters are scheduled five per session slot and all poster presenters are required to participate In the live Q&A during their session.
  • Alternative Format. Suggest an alternative or create your own. Alternative format sessions may take a variety of forms. We welcome your creative ideas about how your topic might best be addressed online. Proposals in this category must: 1) specify the format and session facilitator and 2) describe briefly how the format will enhance presentation of the material.
  • 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 Code of Conduct

  • I am ready to submit my online proposal here
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