
In the realm of continuing education and professional development, virtual study days have emerged as a powerful tool, breaking down the geographical and logistical barriers that often limit access to high-quality educational content. Our experience with producing virtual study days, particularly highlighted by our long-standing collaboration with an esteemed Allergy Academy, offers insights into the transformative potential of these events.
A Decade of Collaboration:
For over a decade, we have been at the forefront of capturing and disseminating the wealth of knowledge shared during the Allergy Academy’s study days. Traditionally held as physical events, these sessions were meticulously recorded and hosted on an e-conference portal, creating an extensive archive of invaluable educational material accessible to delegates worldwide.
The Pivot to Virtual:
The unprecedented circumstances of 2020 necessitated a swift pivot to fully virtual study days. This transition, while driven by necessity, unveiled a myriad of advantages associated with the virtual format. Notably, it allowed for a significant expansion of the Academy’s network of guest presenters and a substantial increase in its delegate base.
Key Features of Our Virtual Study Days:
- Frequency and Accessibility: With 6-8 virtual study days conducted per year, delegates have ample opportunities to engage with current topics and trends in allergy medicine, all from the comfort of their homes or offices.
- Interactive Sli.do Polling/Q&A: To mimic the interactive essence of physical events, we incorporate Sli.do for live polling and Q&A sessions. This feature facilitates real-time engagement, allowing participants to pose questions, share insights, and actively contribute to the discussion.
- Integrated Feedback Form & CPD Certificate Facility: Recognising the importance of continuous professional development, we ensure that participants can easily provide feedback and, in turn, receive CPD certificates. This streamlined process not only enhances the learning experience but also simplifies administrative tasks for both organisers and attendees.
- Sponsors Gallery: Virtual study days also offer unique opportunities for sponsors. Our platform includes a dedicated sponsors gallery, providing visibility and interaction between sponsors and delegates, thus replicating the networking benefits of physical events.
- Speaker Biographies Page: To further enrich the delegate experience, we feature a comprehensive speaker biographies page. This section allows attendees to learn more about the expertise and background of each presenter, fostering a deeper connection and understanding.
The shift to virtual study days has not only sustained but significantly enhanced the reach and impact of educational events like those hosted by the Allergy Academy. Our collaborative efforts have demonstrated that with the right technology and approach, virtual events can offer a more inclusive, accessible, and effective way to disseminate knowledge and foster professional development. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue leveraging the possibilities of virtual platforms to support educational initiatives and expand the horizons of learning and engagement.