This article serves as a concluding statement to the preceding articles on ways to improve conferences. The author pulls together themes of successful conference planning and participation and reviews the literature base for readers who wish to inquire further. (CT)

This article outlines major aspects of the planning of large conferences. These major aspects are a well-planned and well-structured organizational system and a detailed budget. Although conferences sponsored by voluntary associations are emphasized, many of the same principles apply to other types of large conferences. (CT)

This article is concerned with short-term residential adult education conferences of four to five days duration--approximately the time normally allocated to large-scale national conferences. The author offers suggestions for enhancing the effectiveness of short-term residential conferences and touches on some of the theoretical concepts that…

Examines three major decision elements in the program design process: (1) learner participation patterns, (2) educational provider characteristics, and (3) instructional design models. Each shapes and directs the actions of the program designer and the program outcomes. (JOW)