Contact Us
Got a question, we have an answer.
Just Moodle?
Glad you asked. While we started out as a Moodle conference many years ago we have evolved with the times. Nowadays, while we still have some Moodle specific presentations, many sessions are focused on design principles in general, edTech, pedagogy, or address the wider aspect of course design and engagement. In reality the LMS is just the tool, but what you do with it is really what matters. This year we are reaching out to Canvas and D2L as we grow the depth of topics at the conference. We will however continue to keep the conference right about the 130 level as that is the sweet spot for us.
Frequently asked Questions
| Is lodging available on campus? We have always tried to keep the Moot accessible for anyone and to keep the pricing reasonable. This year we will once again have housing on campus in our Trinity Dorm although the A/C will not be functioning. Rooms in this dorm are simple but nice. Each room has three to four bedrooms off of a common living space with a kitchen. If you choose to join us on campus you will get placed in a pod with others. You will have your own individual room with bedding but will share the common living space, kitchen and bathroom with up to three other folks. In the past this has been a great way to get to know others and in reality, you wont spend that much time in your room. The rooms are keycard operated and a hot breakfast at the campus dining hall is included each morning (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday). Rooms are $60 each night for 2024. Lodging is also available right across the street at the Best Western Great Northern for a discounted rate. More information here. |
| Is everything within walking distance? Yes, if you stay in the Best Western Hotel Great Northern, everything is within a short easy walk. This includes the Opening Reception at the Lower Brewhouse, the conference itself, the campus dining hall and the big moot party. Downtown Helena (about 6 blocks) is just a short walk away but very walkable. We will be having a pre-moot party on Tuesday night at Ascension Brewery which is located downtown that is free but optional. |
| When I fly in, do I need to rent a car? Short answer is no. We can pick you up at the airport or if staying at the Best Western (or other Hotels in Helena) they have a free shuttle. You will not need a car for the conference. However, if you plan on exploring the wilds of Montana or taking a drive up to glacier (4 hours away) or down to Yellowstone (4 hours away) then a car is nice. Driving is very easy and very scenic, but note that dawn and dusk including nighttime driving can be difficult due to wildlife on the highways, especially deer. |
| Do I need money for food? Maybe. Most meals are included in the moot and we have a lot of social events that include free food and drinks. Some folks do get together for a late meal out and for sure some drinks after hours as a few bars are within easy walking distance. Snacks and coffee and drinks are also provided throughout the conference for free. |
| Will someone pick me up at the airport and get me back at the end of the moot? Yup, we got you. Only a limited number of flights fly in and out of Helena so chances are a few others are on your same flight both coming and going. We pick you up and get you back - just a side free benefit of the moot. The airport is only about 6 minutes from downtown Helena and Carroll College. And, yes we do know that most flights leave Helena first thing in the morning (like really early). |
| What is this I hear about Ice-Blocking? Ice blocking is really just what is sounds like. Right next to the Library where the conference is held is a nice big grassy hill that slopes down to a huge grass flat area. We have some of our Mootineers run over to the local grocery store and pick up a few solid ice blocks. We then slap a towel on top, have you sit on the towel and away you go. Be a kid again, kind of like sledding in the summer. You have to try it. |
| Are Drinks really free at events? To a certain extent. It seems that some of the best ideas and conversations happen around a table with a few beers (or wine) in the middle. Don't drink alcohol, no worries, we got you as well. |
| What makes this conference different? We are glad you asked! Without a doubt, the people! Many of our attendees come back every year from all over the US and abroad. We are all about the community and making those connections with other subject area experts or just having someone who can help you along the way. To help foster this sense of community we have many social events, long breaks between sessions and encourage collaboration at every step. You may come in to this conference not knowing anyone, but you will have many friends by the time you leave. |
| Where are your attendees from? Every year we got attendees from well over 25 US States, all over Canada and even abroad. States such as Utah, Oregon, Washington, California, New Mexico, Arizona, Idaho, Wyoming, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Alabama and many more. And yes, folks from Montana as well. |
| So who actually comes to this conference? Moodle is the largest LMS in the world, and because it is open source it is used in many areas. We really have folks from all walks of life and areas. Typically we have a large number of folks in Education (both Higher Ed and K-12). On top of that we have folks who use Moodle for all kinds of workplace training from the Military to Real Estate, Truck Driving, State Institutions, Police and Fire Departments, and many many more. Yet we are all trying to do the same thing well, use an LMS to engage and educate in an effective way. Over the last few years we have been incorporating AV/IT and EdTech sessions. It is really enough to fill anyones plate, and with over 40+ sessions you will have a great number of takeaways. |