The topic group sessions are the core element of the retreat. They span across the entire week. Mostly the mornings between breakfast and lunch. Optionally also in the afternoons.
These topics are defined by the participants in a multi-step process:
Before the event: topics are proposed via a prepared slide deck (TODO: link to template) and discussed in the event chat (Group Sessions Planning channel).
- Suggested Topic Pitches: Each topic proposer pitches their topic in 1-2 minutes. No questions.
- Spontaneous Topic Pitches: New topics that were not previously proposed via the “Before the event” process are welcome to be added. Again 1-2 minutes per topic. No questions.
- Topics “Poster” Session: Printed topic pages or - if they were spontaneous - spontaneously written topic pages are distributed across the room and people walk around and discuss them. Proposers are encouraged to not stay with their topic the entire time, since not all topics will be chosen.
- Topic Decision: Each person decides on the topic they'd like to work on. This is usually done by standing next to the topic. The organizers note down the topics and number of people that want to work on each topic.
Topic groups are usually comprised of 2-7 participants.
- If groups get too big, they should split into subtopics.
- New topics can be formed by merging two related topic ideas.
Choosing a topic can be difficult, yet folks should choose one. It is always possible to drop out or switch.
- Topics should be feasible to pursue within the time of the retreat ⏰
- Maximum available time: sessions in the schedule that say "Unconference: Topic Groups".
- There is no topic leader 🗣❌
- The unconference sessions are intended to be collaborative. Different roles in the team are needed, but let’s not build unnecessary hierarchies.
- This is a retreat: Take care of yourself and others 🤗
- If you need time to yourself, take it. Let your group know.
- Follow the Code of Conduct.
- Some time slots are double booked 🗓
- If you will not join your team in a session (e.g. because you have a mentoring conversation), let your team know.