Session Types Most Often Listed in the Call for Papers

Formal Paper

The most common session format.  Authors are asked to submit extended abstracts for organizer consideration.  Final papers based on original empirical research or metatheoretical work are expected by meeting date.  Organizers usually select 3-5 papers for formal panel presentation.  Formal paper sessions are called “invited panels,” and not listed in the open call for papers, when organizers privately solicit and secure panelist participation.  Literature reviews are not appropriate for presentation on a formal panel. 

Poster

The Program Chair usually identifies one member to organize a poster session for faculty and graduate students and another member to organize an undergraduate poster session.  Authors are asked to submit extended abstracts for organizer consideration.  A poster based on original empirical research or metatheoretical work is expected for display at the meeting.  Only in the case of undergraduate posters, may students propose and present a poster that represents key ideas based on their review of a research literature. Posters are usually put on display for an extended period of time: Poster authors are scheduled during a single session time block to answer questions about their poster.

Roundtable (Graduate Student, Faculty, Applied Professionals)

Authors are asked to submit extended abstracts for organizer consideration.  Final papers based on original empirical research or metatheoretical work are expected by meeting date.  Roundtable sessions include 10 or more tables of 3 or 4 presenters.  Tables run simultaneously in a large room during a single session time block.  Literature reviews are not appropriate for roundtable presentation. 

Roundtable (Undergraduate)

Authors are asked to submit extended abstracts for organizer consideration.  Final papers based on original empirical research or metatheoretical work are expected by meeting date.  Roundtable sessions include 10 or more tables of 3 or 4 presenters.  Tables run simultaneously in a large room during a single session time block.  Literature reviews are not appropriate for undergraduate roundtable presentation. 

Sessions Types Not Usually Listed in the Call for Papers 

Book Author and Critics or Reviewers

This format is best adopted when an organizer would like to highlight a particular book.  The format usually involves securing commitment from a book author to attend the session.  The organizer usually then invites two or three colleagues to discuss the book.   

Debate

Organizers invite two or more panelists selected to present opposing arguments and empirical evidence on a given topic, question or issue. Formal papers may or may not be expected.

Computer Demonstration

Organizers usually secure a professional with a particular expertise in a software or computer-based application to demonstrate.  These demonstrations may be scheduled concurrently with the poster session or in some cases integrated into the book exhibit.    

Conversation

Conversation sessions create a meeting structure for those wishing to engage colleagues with shared interests in a discussion about developing ideas or issues.  For example, this would be an appropriate format for colleagues to share ideas on research protocols in development or discuss strategies for navigating graduate study.  This would also be an appropriate forum for colleagues to discuss developing understandings of a particular research literature.  In either case, an organizer might invite a particular senior researcher or professional in the field to facilitate the discussion among those who attend this session. 

Panel Discussion without Titles

This format is best adopted when formal papers are not expected; rather, organizers invite a panel of colleagues with particular expertise to discuss a topic or issue and then engage audience.

Panel Discussion with Titles

This format is best adopted when formal papers are not expected; rather, organizers invite a panel of colleagues with particular expertise to discuss a topic or issue and then engage audience.  Organizers may choose to negotiate with panelists individual titles that will bracket their contributions to the discussion.

Panel Interview

This format is best adopted when formal papers are not expected; rather, organizers invite a panel of colleagues with particular expertise.  Organizer or presider prepares a set of questions for the panel on a given topic or issue and/or facilitates question and answer session between audience and panel.

Plenary

Plenary sessions must be developed with the PSA President. Organizers invite a panel of colleagues with particular expertise to discuss a topic or issue and then engage audience.  Unlike a panel discussion with(out) titles, plenary sessions are high profile sessions usually scheduled in a time block without other meeting events. 

Presidential

Reserved status for sessions organized by or with the PSA President.

Video/DVD Film

Screening of a popular film or documentary.  May or may not be linked to post screening facilitated discussion. 

Workshop

Organizers usually secure a professional with a particular expertise to teach a skill or facilitate an in-depth exploration of an issue or topic.  All workshops should incorporate experiential pedagogy.  If needed, organizers may request an extended time block (2-3 hours) for workshop offerings.