"Vexation and Venture" is a conference format designed so problems and dilemmas are presented within small groups in an interactive format. Key components of this conference format include:
- Statement: 10 minutes for the presenter to describe the Vexation and Venture (without interruption)
- Clarify: 5 minutes for the participants to ask clarifying questions of the presenter (with response from the presenter)
- Incubate: 15 minutes for the participants to discuss the Vexation and Venture of the presenter (without any input from the presenter), and finally
- Rejoin: 5 minutes for the presenter to become un-gagged and respond, ask questions, and/or summarize what they've heard.
Variations of this process have been used in other settings (e.g., Great Books). Within educational environments, especially among professionals, the format of speaking of the unknown and establishing a forum for new ideas and prospects is unique, since most academic conferences are places at which information and ideas are disseminated, rather than generated.
Science Education at the Crossroads
Design Based Research Conference 2013