Why Attend AECT26

Build Bridges. Expand Possibilities.

The AECT 2026 International Convention brings together scholars, practitioners, students, leaders, and innovators from across the field of educational communications and technology for a week of learning, connection, and inspiration in Chicago.

Centered on the theme Building Bridges, this year’s convention is designed to connect research and practice, strengthen professional relationships, and create new opportunities for collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and borders.

Whether you are a longtime member or attending for the first time, AECT 2026 offers meaningful opportunities to grow your network, deepen your knowledge, and engage with the ideas shaping the future of our field.

Why Attend?

Connect with a Global Community

AECT’s convention brings together a diverse community of educators, researchers, instructional designers, students, consultants, and industry professionals. It is a place to build new relationships, reconnect with colleagues, and engage with people who share your commitment to advancing learning and technology.

Learn What’s Next in the Field

Attend sessions that explore timely topics, emerging trends, innovative research, and practical applications across educational technology. From theory to implementation, the convention offers valuable insights you can bring back to your institution, organization, or classroom.

Turn Ideas into Collaboration

The convention is more than a series of presentations. It is a space where conversations begin, partnerships form, and ideas grow into future projects, publications, and initiatives. AECT 2026 is built to help attendees make meaningful connections that last beyond the event itself.

Discover Research You Can Use

Engage with work that bridges scholarship and practice. Whether you are presenting, attending, or simply exploring new areas of interest, you will leave with fresh ideas, new perspectives, and actionable takeaways.

Grow Your Professional Network

From formal networking events to informal hallway conversations, AECT’s convention creates space for relationship-building at every stage of your career. Meet mentors, collaborators, future co-authors, and peers who can support your professional journey.

Gain Visibility for Your Work

The convention offers a platform to share your expertise, exchange feedback, and contribute to important conversations in the field. It is an opportunity to showcase your work, build your reputation, and engage with an audience that understands its value.

Find Inspiration in a Historic City

Hosted in Chicago, AECT 2026 combines a dynamic professional experience with the energy of one of the country’s great convention cities. Known for its architecture, culture, food, and iconic bridges, Chicago provides the perfect backdrop for a convention focused on connection and possibility.

Who Should Attend?

AECT26 is designed for:

• Higher education faculty and researchers
• Instructional designers and learning experience professionals
• Graduate students and emerging scholars
• K–12 educators and leaders
• Industry professionals and consultants
• International members and collaborators
• Anyone interested in the future of learning, design, media, and technology

What You’ll Gain

By attending AECT26, you can expect to:

• Expand your professional network
• Explore current research and practical innovations
• Engage in conversations that bridge theory and application
• Discover new tools, ideas, and strategies
• Strengthen your connection to the AECT community
• Return home with renewed energy, perspective, and purpose

Be Part of the Conversation

AECT 2026 is an invitation to come together, share ideas, and build bridges that strengthen our field. Join colleagues from around the world in Chicago as we learn from one another, celebrate innovation, and shape what comes next.

Make plans to attend AECT 2026 and be part of the connections that move our field forward.