Attending instructional design conferences offers a valuable opportunity for professional growth, enabling you to expand your knowledge, network with industry colleagues, and glean insights from experienced leaders in the field.
These events are particularly crucial in instructional and learning design, where staying abreast of evolving trends and best practices is key to remain competitive. Conferences and events are a great complementary learning strategy for advancing your career as a Learning Experience Designer.
Instructional Design Conferences for 2024
Here’s a detailed list of key conferences in 2024
Learning Design Conferences
A virtual event focusing on microlearning strategies and practices, including sessions on AI-enhanced microlearning and practical applications in various industries.
- When: Multiple editions during the year
- Location: Virtual
- Modality: Virtual
- Key Topics:
- AI-enhanced microlearning
- Change navigation
- Barrier-free learning for deskless workers
- Location: Texas, United States
- When: February 26-28, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Online, hybrid, and digital learning practices
- Implementation of technology to enhance student opportunities and outcomes
- Strategies for K-12 digital learning practitioners, researchers, and policymakers
- Interactive sessions focused on real-world applications and evidence-based improvements
- Networking and collaborative opportunities for educators and school leaders
The Visual Design for Learning Conference 2024 is a key online event dedicated to the transformative power of visual design within educational and professional learning environments. This virtual conference will gather instructional designers, educators, and learning & development professionals from around the globe, providing insights and strategies to enhance visual communication and design in learning.
- Location: Online
- When: May 10-11, 2024
- Modality: Virtual
- Key Topics:
- Exploring the transformative power of visual design in educational environments.
- Enhancing learning experiences through innovative visual strategies.
- Revitalizing instructional design practices with visual elements.
- Improving engagement, understanding, and retention through visual design.
- Leveraging visuals to create more effective e-learning content.
- Practical tips and tools for integrating visuals into educational materials.
- Creating compelling and memorable learning experiences with dynamic visual aids.
The iDX2024 conference is a leading event for professionals in instructional design, eLearning, and training. It will be hosted at the Rydges World Square Sydney, offering a comprehensive agenda that spans a wide range of cutting-edge topics and interactive sessions designed to inspire, educate, and advance the field of eLearning and instructional design.
- Location: Sydney, Australia
- When: May 22, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Navigating the Nexus: Learning Experience in the Era of AI
- Hacking Learning Design with Neuroscience
- Interactive Case Studies: Storytelling Through Interactive Video
- Building a Winning Hospitality Workforce with eLearning
- SNAP! A Framework for Rapid eLearning Development
- Technical Skills Development Online: Keeping It Real
- 10 Things Besides eLearning You Can Create with Your Authoring Tools
LEARNTEC, Europe’s leading digital learning event, will be hosted at Messe Karlsruhe, Germany. This prestigious gathering features over 400 exhibitors and 300 speakers, spotlighting the forefront of digital education across school, university, and corporate sectors. Participants will delve into digital innovation, technology integration, and future learning trends, making it a must-attend for those in education and professional development.
- Location: Messe Karlsruhe, Germany
- When: June 4-6, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- School: How digital schools work, new forms of learning and teaching with digital materials, optimal learning and media skills teaching.
- University: Digital age universities, presentation program university@LEARNTEC, various ideas for university education.
- Corporate: Impact of digitisation on life, teaching, and work, digital media in practical education, corporate training, and further education through digital media.
- Technology: Blended learning solutions, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Web-Based Training (WBT), Computer-Based Training (CBT), smart media, knowledge services.
- Professional Development: Training for top and middle management, networking, and communication opportunities.
LXDCON’24 is set to offer a unique virtual conference experience, centering around the impactful use of play and games in learning design. This event is ideal for professionals interested in the innovative intersection of gaming and educational design, providing both theoretical insights and practical guidance. The conference aims to engage participants actively in the evolving world of LXD, making it a must-attend event for those passionate about creative and effective learning methodologies.
- Location: Online
- When: June 11-14, 2024
- Modality: Virtual
- Key Themes:
- Focus on play, games, and gamification in learning
- Theoretical and practical aspects of using play in learning experience design (LXD)
- Exploring the relationship between LXD and game design
- Discussion on when playful solutions are viable for serious learning outcomes
The Canadian eLearning Conference is eagerly anticipated for June 13 & 14, 2024. It will take place at the Peter Gilgan Centre for Research & Learning in Toronto, offering a vibrant platform for eLearning professionals. This event is an opportunity for attendees to network and engage with others in the industry. Activities include workshops, sessions, and a Social Mixer, enhancing the networking experience.
- Location: Toronto, Canada
- When: June 13 & 14, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Highlights:
- Opportunities for networking
- Engaging workshops and sessions
- Insightful Keynote presentations
The DevLearn 2024 Conference & Expo is set to be a dynamic event focusing on learning technologies. Scheduled for November 6-8, 2024, at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, NV, this conference is ideal for forward-thinking professionals keen on exploring, discovering, and sharing best practices in hot industry topics. It’s a gathering point for innovators and thought leaders in the L&D community, offering insights into how emerging technologies and inventive thinking can drive industry innovation.
- Location: Las Vegas, United States
- When: November 6-8, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Learning technologies
- Emerging technologies in training and performance
- Innovative thinking in the L&D industry
Learning Technology Conferences
Evolved from the Learning Solutions Conference, this event focuses on HR solutions and technologies, offering over 150 conference sessions and interactions with top eLearning and HR tech companies.
- When: April 23-25, 2024
- Location: Orlando, United States
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- HR solutions and technologies
- eLearning
- Instructional design
- AI in learning
A leading educational technology conference featuring keynotes from global leaders in the field, focusing on the latest innovations in digital learning.
- When: May 13-14, 2024
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Educational technology
- Digital learning tools
- Insights from global education leaders
This conference focuses on innovative learning and technology, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration.
- When: June 12-14, 2024
- Location: New York, Unites States
- Modality: Hybrid (In-person and Virtual)
- Key Topics:
- Educational strategies and technology
- Software usability
- User experience
ATD TechKnowledge is a dynamic three-day journey designed for talent development professionals who are passionate about embracing the ever-evolving world of learning technologies. The ATD TechKnowledge 2024 Conference is yet to announce its specific details. The conference typically focuses on technology and its application in talent development. It’s an excellent opportunity for professionals in learning and development to explore the latest tech trends, tools, and strategies in the field. Stay tuned to the conference website for updates on location, dates, and key topics.
- When: February 7-9, 2024
- Location: Los Angeles, United States
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- The future impact of Artificial Intelligence on work and life
- Tackling bias in algorithmic decision-making
- Ethical challenges of emerging technologies
- The intersection of technology, innovation, and storytelling
- Practical innovation to solve real-world problems using technology
The Learning Environments Australasia Conference offers a unique opportunity for professionals at the intersection of architecture and education to come together and explore the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in creating learning environments. The 2024 conference aims to highlight critical aspects of inclusion and diversity in educational design, promising insightful discussions and learning opportunities.
- Location: Melbourne, Australia
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Inclusion in educational architecture
- Gender equality in learning spaces
- Accommodating disabilities in education design
- Relationship between cultural aspects and educational architecture
- Showcasing innovative educational practices and architecture
- Integration of education practice with architectural and technological advancements
- Masterclasses for in-depth learning in learning environment design
- Opportunities for networking and professional development
Learning and Development Conferences
The World of Learning Summit 2024 is a two-day event that includes both a conference and an exhibition, bringing together L&D experts, brands, and professionals. It offers an informative yet informal setting for learning and networking. The conference features a range of interactive presentations, debates, and panel sessions, providing attendees with practical solutions and new ideas for their businesses. The accompanying exhibition is free to attend and includes a variety of seminars, sessions, and interactive zones, focusing on various aspects of workplace learning and development.
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- When: January 30-31, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Interactive presentations and panel sessions in L&D
- Thought leadership and innovative strategies in learning
- Practical solutions for L&D challenges
- Mental wellbeing, learning design, and life skills
Produced by Training magazine, Training 2024 provides skill-building content, covering train-the-trainer essentials (design, development, delivery, management, evaluation, and measurement), behavioral analytics, serious games for learning, leadership development, digital learning, emerging technologies, and more. A prominent event in the L&D space offering opportunities for meaningful connections and insights into the latest training trends.
- When: February 26-28, 2024
- Location: Orlando, Florida, United States
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Training industry trends
- Instructional design
- Leadership development
This event is part of a series focusing on innovative HR solutions and strategic approaches.
- When:
- March 5-6, 2024 (London)
- June 5-6, 2024 (Amsterdam)
- November 19-20, 2024 (London)
- Location: Europe – Several locations
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Human Resources innovation
- People management
- Talent management
- HR analytics
The 12 Hour Online Festival of Facilitation 2024 is an engaging online event dedicated to enhancing facilitation skills and promoting effective online interaction.
- When: Thursday, February 8th, 2024, from 7 am to 7 pm (NZDT)
- Location: New Zealand – Online, hosted via Zoom.
- Modality: Online.
- Key Topics:
- Innovative icebreakers for online introductions.
- Interactive card game ‘Below the Surface’ for meaningful conversations.
- Experience design in workshops for impactful learning.
- Workshop design using The Transform Deck for effective facilitation.
- Tools for creative and different thinking in problem-solving.
- Emotion-focused facilitation in various contexts.
- Discovering personal facilitation strengths.
- Insights from experienced facilitators through a Q&A session.
- Reflective closing session for action planning.
User Experience Designg Conferences
UXCon Vienna offers a platform for professional exchange and insights from the European UX design scene and pioneers in the US, ideal for all UX design and research enthusiasts.
- When: September 19-20, 2024
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- UX design and research
- Professional exchange
- Bridging European and US UX design scenes
This conference invites over 50 speakers from different industries to share real-world UX design challenges and collaborate in workshops, focusing on all UX design disciplines.
- When: October 15-17, 2024
- Location: Graz, Austria
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- UX design challenges
- Multi-disciplinary workshops
- Real-world UX design
PUSH UX is a platform for hands-on design professionals and product-minded innovators, featuring world-class speakers and an atmosphere for learning and networking.
- When: November 7-8, 2024
- Location: Munich, Germany
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- UX design
- Product innovation
- Creative technology
Config 2024 promises to be an engaging and informative event for professionals involved in product development, offering a blend of technical insights and creative inspiration.
- Date: June 26-27, 2024
- Location: San Francisco, United States
- Modality: In-person and Virtual
- Key topics:
- Future of product development
- In-depth Figma use
- Leadership in design
- AI in design
- Design-dev collaboration
- Creative problem-solving
- UX design trends
- Tech impact on design
Leadership Development Conferences
The 2024 New Zealand L&D Leadership Summit is an ideal platform for professionals in the field to learn from and network with leading experts and peers, offering a comprehensive view of the current and future state of learning and development in the workplace.
- Location: Auckland, New Zealand
- When: June 25-26, 2024
- Modality: In-person
- Key Topics:
- Enhancing workplace learning and development
- Creating collaborative and meaningful learning experiences
- Strategies for blended work environments and learner-centred approaches
- Upskilling and reskilling in the evolving work landscape
- The role of collaboration, partnership, and human connections in L&D
Why attend instructional design conferences?
- Networking Opportunities: Conferences are a hub for instructional designers to connect with peers and experts, fostering professional relationships and collaborations.
- Learning from Industry Leaders: Featuring a line-up of seasoned professionals and thought leaders, these events offer insights into the latest trends and best practices in the field.
- Skill Enhancement: Workshops and sessions provide hands-on experiences, equipping attendees with practical skills and knowledge applicable to their day-to-day work.
- Innovation and Inspiration: Discover innovative tools and techniques that can revolutionize learning experiences and instructional design methodologies.
- A Comprehensive Learning Experience: While resources, online courses, and academic programs offer structured and in-depth knowledge, conferences provide a dynamic, fresh and immersive learning environment. An effective way for staying connected and current in a rapidly evolving field and a good complement to more formal education methods by providing real-world context and immediate applicability.
Attending conferences on limited budget
Attending conferences in specialized fields like instructional design can be a rewarding experience. They offer extensive learning opportunities, a chance to network with peers, and a platform to learn from experts. However, the costs associated with these events can be a barrier, especially when operating on a limited budget. There are several strategies to mitigate these financial constraints:
- Employer Sponsorship: Many employers recognize the value of professional development and are willing to sponsor conference attendance. Discuss with your employer the benefits of attending a specific conference. Highlight how the knowledge and skills gained could directly contribute to your role and the organization’s objectives.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Early bird discounts can significantly reduce registration costs. Additionally, many conferences offer virtual attendance options, which eliminate travel and accommodation expenses. Volunteering at a conference can also sometimes provide free or discounted access to the event.
- Leverage Free Events: Some conferences offer free sessions, workshops, or access to the exhibit hall. These provide opportunities to gain knowledge and network without the expense of full conference registration.
What to expect at an Instructional Design Conference?
When attending instructional design conferences, participants can expect a diverse range of presentations and activities designed to cater to various learning styles and professional interests. Here’s an overview of what you might encounter:
- Keynote Speeches: These are typically delivered by leaders in the field, offering insights into current trends, future outlooks, and innovative practices in instructional design.
- Panel Discussions: Panels often feature a group of experts debating or discussing various aspects of instructional design, offering multiple perspectives on relevant topics.
- Workshops: Hands-on workshops provide practical experiences, teaching new tools and techniques that can be applied in instructional design work.
- Networking Events: These are great opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators in a more informal setting.
- Breakout Sessions: Smaller sessions allow for in-depth exploration of specific topics and often include interactive elements to engage attendees.
- Product Demonstrations: Vendors and tech companies often showcase the latest tools and technologies in instructional design, giving attendees a chance to see new products in action.
- Poster Presentations: These involve presenters showcasing their research or projects in a visual format, allowing for one-on-one interaction with attendees.
- Virtual Participation Options: Many conferences now offer virtual attendance options, including live-streamed sessions and digital networking opportunities.
Each of these components aims to provide a comprehensive learning and networking experience, making instructional design conferences in 2024 valuable for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field.
Optimizing Your Conference Experience
When planning to attend instructional design conferences in 2024, consider these key points:
- Choose Relevant Conferences: Select events that align with your professional interests and development goals in instructional design.
- Coordinate with Travel Plans: Align conference dates with your travel plans to optimize time and costs.
- Consider Logistics: Plan for accommodation, transportation, and any visa requirements if traveling internationally.
- Decide What to Bring: Pack essentials like notebooks, business cards, and tech gadgets necessary for the conference.
- Define Your Goals: Before attending, determine what you want to gain from the experience, whether it’s learning specific skills, networking, or gaining new insights.
- Review the Schedule: Look at the conference agenda beforehand and plan which sessions and workshops to attend.
- Budget Planning: Look for early bird discounts or consider volunteering at the conference for reduced fees.
- Post-Conference Action Plan: Think about how you will apply the knowledge and connections you gain back in your work environment.
