At a glance:

What:

A gathering for unschooled young adults and families to create social networks, meet potential mentors, find resources, and make meaningful friendships.

Where:

Marriott Courtyard
Columbia, South Carolina
» Directions

When:

March 12-14, 2010


News
2/14/10- Unfortunately, Beth Fuller will not be able to make it to the Symposium this Spring.

12/09/09- The Mentor Pages have been created!

11/09/09- New Workshops and Events added! Many more to be announced!

8/09/09- Check out the Presenters & Guests page for presentation descriptions!

6/13/09- Check out the Logistics page to book your hotel room!

6/1/09- Check out the Presenters & Guests page for newly added photos and bios!
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FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions
 

What is unschooling?

Unschooling is a word coined by John Holt and the philosophy that has built up around it which puts the education in the learner's hands. Rather than being the teachers, the parents are partners, facilitators, and resources, supporting each of the learner's interests at any given time. It's a form of homeschooling that allows the learner to go at his/her own pace, follow his/her passions without interference, learn from real life experiences, and work towards real goals and purposes. Learning occurs naturally; and when patience, resources, trust, and respect for one's own way of learning come together, it flourishes.

-Cameron Lovejoy
 
 

Will there be activities for children?

Of course! There will be a room for activities where blocks, toys, and a huge pile of dress up clothes will be located! Workshops like Henna Bomb, Play With your Food, Mandala Art, Letterboxing, and Take It Apart are all fun, too! Just hanging out and running around with friends is popular, too!
 
 

Will there be activities for teens?

Many of the presentations are geared towards young adults who are seeking aid with their personal projects, etc. Workshops like Leadership for Teens, The Art of Hugging, Journaling, Blues Dancing, LaughterYoga, and different communication skill workshops, are a few of the possible workshops for teens.  The Symposium Sock Hop, Game Night, and The Mentor Mixer are exciting big events as well. They are also encouraged to just hang with their old and newly-found friends!
 
 

Will you be offering scholarships?

Unfortunately, since this is our first attempt at directing a conference, we are not going to offer scholarships this year. In future years, we will consider offering scholarships.
 
 

May I volunteer?

We love volunteers! Contact Cameron at cameronlovejoy@gmail.com to discuss your interest!
 
 

May I facilitate a workshop? How?

You're welcome to contact Cameron via email to discuss your workshop ideas! cameronlovejoy@gmail.com
 
 

May I bring my RV?

Yes, there is RV space in the hotel parking lot, but you must pay a nightly fee of $35. Limited RV space is available at the Lovejoy's house- it's a 20 minute drive.
 
 

What time should I arrive?

We suggest that you arrive on Thursday, March 11th so you're able to settle in before the early registration on Friday morning. Otherwise you're expected to be at the registration table between 9am and 11pm on Friday, March 12.
 
 

Is there wifi at the hotel?

Complimentary wifi is available in all hotel rooms and the hotel lobby.
 
 

I have a great idea for your conference. Can you make it happen?

Quite possibly! We do have the power to make it happen! Please contact Cameron by email and let him know your ideas! cameronlovejoy@gmail.com
 
 

What does the conference fee cover?

The fee covers all presentations, workshops, symposium bags, all scheduled events from Friday through Sunday at 5:00 pm. It does not cover t-shirts, food or hotel room.
 
 

May I come for just one day?

You can come for one day, but, alas, you must pay the full fee.
 
 

Is there a Yahoo group for this conference?

Yes! http://groups.yahoo.com/group/The_Autodidact_Symposium
 
 
 

What's the schedule?

An outline of the schedule is located at the bottom of the Logistics Page.
 
 

How do I contact you?

My name is Cameron Lovejoy, and you're more than welcome to e-mail me at cameronlovejoy@gmail.com.
 
 



 
 
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