ASLA Online Virtual Conference

Frequently Asked Questions

Registration

1. How do I register for this conference?

You will need to register for this conference by completing the registration process. A Tax Invoice is created when you register. Please save this for your records. Send the completed form to the Conference Secretariat or fax or mail to the contact details provided on the form. Only registered delegates will be granted access to the papers and e-forums.

2. Will I receive a username and password?

When you register as a user of the ASLA website you will create your own username and password. You can use the username and password to Login and access the conference papers and e-forums once your registration is processed.

3. How much does it cost to register?

The list of registration types and rates can be found on the Registration Information page. When you complete your registration you will need to select the appropriate registration rate. A description is provided for each registration type to help you select the most appropriate registration rate. The rate includes GST.

4. What do I get for my registration fee?

The registration fee includes access to all the papers in each of the strands and access to all the e-forums.

5. Will I receive an invoice when I register?

A Tax Invoice is created when you register. All the information required by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and the Goods and Services Tax Act is recorded on the Tax Invoice. It is recommended you keep a copy for your records. Once your registration is processed you will also be provided with a sales receipt from the ASLA national office by mail or email attachment.

6. I live in Australia and my organisation requires a tax invoice stating your ABN?

The Australian Business Number (ABN) is on the Tax Invoice. The form also includes the name of the association and the address. (See 5 above for how to process your payment and how to receive an "official" sales receipt).

7. Will I need to provide my credit card details online?

No. If you choose to pay by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) you will be able to complete the payment process by entering your information on the registration form. Upon receipt of your registration your payment will be processed and you will be notified by email. Alternatively, you can choose to use Electronic Funds Transfer (payment in Australian dollars) or pay by cheque.

8. Will I have to pay a registration fee if I am a presenter?

No, your registration is complimentary. The ASLA Online III Secretariat will contact you with information on how to register for the online conference. We thank you for your willingness to be involved in this third online conference of the association.

9. How do I find out more information about this conference?

Additional information is available on the ASLA Online Conference 2008 website.

During the conference

1. What is an online conference?

This online conference is conducted entirely over the Internet. Presenters and delegates have no need to travel to attend this conference. Everyone will participate directly from their computers through a secure, password protected website that will provide the tools necessary for you to participate. Similar to a face-to-face conference you will have the opportunity to access professional presentations, engage in meaningful discussion with presenters and other delegates, and network with colleagues. In addition, you will have access to a content-rich, hyper-linked and socially interactive learning environment 24 hours a day and 7 days a week (24/7). By using a standard Internet connection and a web browser anyone can be involved regardless of the geographical location.

2. Is there a conference program of events?

The conference program and the e-forum schedule are already available. During the actual online conference, 5th to 26th May, the registered delegates may also receive updates by email. These email messages will only be used to advise delegates of changes to the scheduled program.

3. What sorts of activities can I be involved in?

a) There will be an introduction e-forum. This forum is designed to allow you to introduce yourself to the other delegates and to exchange general information with others throughout the conference. Delegates will be asked to only use this space for discussions outside the actual strand/theme forums. This forum will be open for the duration of the conference.
b) There are three strands/themes. Each strand or theme will host 4 to 5 papers. You can access these papers prior to the commencement of the e-forums. You get to choose which papers are best suited to your needs and interests.
c) There will be a ‘staggered’ rollout of e-forums for each of the strands/themes. See the e-forum schedule. You will be given the opportunity to participate in these e-forums.

4. Are there any "live" events?

There are no "real-time" events, but it will certainly be lively. The conference site and facilities can be accessed at any time - 24/7 – for the duration of the conference.

5. How long does the conference last?

This depends on when you register. If you register at the commencement of registration you will have 5 to 6 weeks in which to access, read, and construct your questions before the e-forums for the strands/themes are available. Then, you will have another 3 weeks to discuss the papers.

6. What sort of computer access will I need to be involved in this conference?

The minimum you will need is an Internet connection, web browser and access to a software program that will open PDF files. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. Adobe Reader is free software for viewing and printing PDF files.

7. Will help be available if I need it?

Yes. You can send an email request for help to the ASLA Online III Secretariat. Email help will be available within an Australian time zone.

8. How do I get the most out of an online conference like this?

Because the conference is online and you do not need to travel away from work or home you will need to consider scheduling some time to devote to this type of conference. This is a time for your professional development and learning so you might need to discuss your involvement with your employer, supervisor and your family. We have provided a guide on How to get the most out of an online conference on this website. This documentation is provided to help you get the most out of your online experience and we would highly recommend you check this out.

9. Once the conference is over, what happens then?

Well, we may get more sleep! On a more serious note ....
The conference site will remain accessible for an extended duration allowing you to continue to access the papers.
The conference e-forums will remain available for at least 2 weeks post-conference.
The ASLA Online social networking space will continue to be available to host opportunities to continue the discussion and exploration of the conference theme.
Also, you will be able to share your online learning experience with your colleagues, and hopefully, continue conversations with those who you meet during the ASLA Online II conference.

Last updated 16 April 2008