FOCAPD focuses on the big picture. All speakers are selected and invited by the conference organizers, and we use a single-track approach so that attendees gather together to hear all the speakers. Speakers are asked not to focus on their own research findings and accomplishments, but rather to talk about the latest trends and forward directions in their fields more generally. We want to know what is exciting about the field, and where it is headed next. We want the whole community at each talk so we can engage in lively discussions after each one about the future of our profession.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to present their research findings at one of three lively poster sessions. Held in the evenings with food and drink, the poster sessions are widely attended. These informal gatherings are ideal for research communication, informal discussions, and network development. Contributors can also publish their findings in the peer-reviewed conference proceedings.