Today’s Massive Outreach Event was many things. I`ll start with awesome. Followed closely with Shiny. I have attended five conferences by now, and this MOE was by far my favourite. Not only was it the most fun, but it kicks ass in terms of impact. Even if only one student per class was inspired by this morning, it still will have longer term impact then standing outside City Hall in the cold. (Or being told to F-off by an irate Toronto businessman)
EWB promotes a culture of criticism and learning lessons, and there are some here. Notably, I feel that the video teleconference was a bit long. Not only long, but it was also a tad complicated for that crowd. (ie: governmental foreign affairs protocols) Before people jump all over me for underestimating High School students, I am in no way debating the fact that some High School students are capable of significant critical thought. However when you are addressing 4500 people, you have to go for at least the middle common denominator. I also would not have streamed that talk to 4500 second year engineering students. I know in the gym I was in, there was substantial fidgeting by 45 minutes. I think the overall idea was pure genius, I just would have made it a little more accessible to the average high school student.
That being said, I think the MOE was an absolutely amazing experience which will go a long way towards making this one of the best conferences ever. It has also significantly raised the bar for every MOE that will follow from here on out. Thanks so much to all the organizers. You rock my socks.
Cale Ettenberg – Ottawa Regional Chapter
