About ChemEd 2011

In the early 1970's, a few prominent chemistry educators, most notably the late Reg Friesen, began to discuss their belief that high school (and university) chemistry instructors lacked a regular vehicle for quality professional development.  They felt that these teachers needed an ongoing opportunity to network with each other, to benefit from each other's experience and expertise, to stay abreast of all the latest developments and techniques, and to grow toward excellence in instruction of this fascinating branch of science.

The result of this vision was the establishment of the International biennial ChemEd conferences.  The first ChemEd was held in 1973 at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada.  Since then, the event has grown and evolved to become the largest high school chemistry conference in North America.  Held in the mid-summer of odd years at major universities across North America, ChemEd has come to be regarded as chemical education's premier event and a benchmark for professional development.

Both secondary and post-secondary teachers experience unparalleled access to the ideas, methods, techniques, and enthusiasm of master educators from across the continent and abroad.  The four day gathering typically attracts between 800 and 1000 delegates and family members from across Canada and the United States, as well as from numerous countries from around the world.  The attendees benefit from a program brimming with exciting lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on laboratory sessions and come away enriched, motivated and energized as they prepare for the coming academic year.  Their students benefit immediately, and the long-term positive effects on society are real and widespread.

We are pleased to host the 21st biennial ChemEd conference for the first time in Michigan.  Our committee of dedicated chemistry instructors and supporters is working hard to prepare a large variety of sessions and events to provide additional ideas to apply to your own teaching experiences.  We are hoping that you will join us in Kalamazoo, Michigan and are sure that we can provide you with a most enjoyable experience.

Previous Chemed Conferences
1973	Waterloo	Ontario, Canada
1975	Waterloo	Ontario, Canada
1977	Waterloo	Ontario, Canada
1978	Glenside	Pennsylvania, USA
1979	Waterloo	Ontario, Canada
1981	Waterloo	Ontario, Canada
1983	Indianapolis	Indiana, USA
1985	Montclair	New Jersey, USA
1987	Kingston	Ontario, Canada
1989	Kingston	Ontario, Canada
1991	Oshkosh	Wisconsin, USA
1993	Indianapolis	Indiana, USA
1995	Norfolk	Virginia, USA
1997	Minneapolis	Minnesota, USA
1999	Fairfield	Connecticut, USA
2001	Toronto	Ontario, Canada
2003	Auburn	Alabama, USA
2005	Vancouver	British Columbia, Canada
2007	Denton	Texas, USA
2009	Radford	Virginia, USA
2011	Kalamazoo	Michigan, USA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a paid participant and a guest?  What functions can a guest attend?
   
   A Guest is generally a spouse or significant other of a paid participant.  A person may not sign up solely as a guest - they must be 'sponsored'.  A guest will be able to attend all the events that a normal paid participant can attend (except for meals which is an extra cost).   If a session is full, a guest may also be asked to leave and make room for a paid participant.  A guest will not receive a 'tote bag/backpack' at registration, but will receive a name badge.  A guest should not be a chemistry teacher.  A husband/wife team, who are both chemistry teachers, should sign up as two paid participants.
   
   
2. When are Chemical Safety releases needed?  Are electronic signatures permitted on the form?
   Every presenter AND co-presenter that is dealing with chemicals must sign a Chemical Safety release form.  If a presenter (or co-presenter) is associated with multiple sessions dealing with chemicals, only one form will need to be signed.  The form may be signed electronically.
   
   
3. How can I register for the conference?
   All pre-conference registration is conducted online.  Registration will be available onsite, however advance registration is strongly recommended (and is less expensive)!
   
   
4. What are the dates of the conference?
   July 24 through July 28, 2011
   
   
5. What is included in the conference registration fee?
   - Attendance to all sessions including the opening session, the closing plenary session, all complimentary regular sessions/workshops, and the demonstration series
   - Conference program and abstracts
   - Access to download the presentation material (powerpoint, handouts, etc) from this web site
   - Sunday night social event
   - Ice Cream Social
   - Exhibitors' Wine and Cheese
   - Wednesday night Banquet and Air Zoo
   
   
6. Where is ChemEd 2011 and how do I get there?
   ChemEd 2011 will be held on the campus of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan.  Kalamazoo is located in the south western part of the state.  The closest airports are Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Airport (AZO), Grand Rapids Airport (GRR), Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), and Chicago OHare Airport (ORD).  Kalamazoo is about 2 hours from Detroit Metro Airport
   
   
7. How do I make reservations at the conference hotel(s), and are there discounted rates available for Conference attendees?
   There are a number of hotels near the Western Michigan University campus.  Details are available from Discover Kalamazoo. Dormitory accommodation on campus will be available at a nominal fee.
   
   
8. How much will it cost to attend this conference?
   The Early-Bird Registration fee is $280 and includes Sunday night dinner, socials, and Wednesday evening's dinner at the Air Zoo. Housing and other meals will be available at nominal cost. After July 1 the registration fee increases to $350.
   
   
9. Where can I find a hard-copy registration form?
   Hard-copy forms are available under the Registration tab and can be used for those needing to pay with a PO or check. The form may also be used for credit card payments, although we prefer you use the on-line system.