From the Winter 2021 Journal of the Colorado Dental Association
The last year has presented many challenges but also some unique opportunities. One of those amazing opportunities is the chance to experience a new and exciting virtual Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC) Anywhere. As the name indicates, on Jan. 21-23, 2021 you can access a wide variety of well-known dental industry speakers from the comfort of your couch or during your lunch break at work. Industry leaders including Dr. Sascha Jovanovic, Dr. Terry Tanaka, Dr. Harold Crossley, Dr. Cathy Flaitz, Dr. Paul Feuerstein, Dayna Johnson, Penny Hatzimanolakis and more will offer insight and tips to help you grow in your career while vendors display the latest in dental technology, products and services in the virtual Expo Hall. As if that’s not enough, there will be networking opportunities and plenty of chances to win fun prizes like tablets, smart watches, home speakers and even a drone.
One of the best parts of RMDC Anywhere is that you can get more continuing education than ever before. Other than a handful of live only (available only at the published time) courses, all other courses will be available both live at the published times and recorded to be viewed on-demand for 30 days following RMDC Anywhere. That’s more than 80 hours of CE!
To assure that you have the best possible experience, use these tips as a blueprint for planning your time at RMDC Anywhere.
Perspective – There is often an unconscious bias that adult online learning is “second best.” Whether this is caused by “Zoom fatigue” or because the method of learning is newer to most of us, it’s time to cast out the stereotype. Just like an in-person convention, you are likely to get more out of a virtual experience if you invest a little time preparing and are fully engaged.
Prepare – Register early. Although it is a virtual convention and you don’t have to plan travel and may not be planning to take time away from your dental practice, register early to allow yourself time to prepare. Review course descriptions and speaker bios in the online program or the registration kit and take advantage of the mobile app to build your schedule so you have it handy when the convention starts. (Remember to pay special attention to “live-only” sessions.) Once you have the courses and networking events you would like to attend, block time off in your calendar so you don’t schedule patients, haircuts or social events over these time blocks.
Workspace – While you can attend the 2021 RMDC from anywhere, set aside a workspace fit for learning. Aim for something free of distractions that is comfortable and has reliable internet. Make sure the equipment you will be using, whether it is a desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, has the latest operating system and browser updates for a seamless use of the convention platform. Try closing other browser tabs and turning off email and phone notifications so you aren’t tempted by online shopping or games during your scheduled convention time.
Engage – RMDC Anywhere was carefully planned to allow ample opportunities for networking. Take advantage of features like live chats, the convention mobile app and social media to forge connections with other attendees. Stay tuned for information on networking events to catch-up with colleagues and friends. Plan time in the virtual Expo Hall and make appointments with vendors online or video chat to learn about new products and the latest technology.
Break – Give yourself a break. Be realistic about how long you plan to sit in front of a computer. Schedule breaks for yourself to grab snacks, use the restroom, stretch, engage with family, friends or even see a patient. Your eyes and back will thank you for it!
Reflection – Take some time for reflection between sessions. Instead of doing laundry or making dinner, consider reviewing your notes, making sure you have the course code recorded properly to earn CE and completing the session evaluations. You should also take the time to visit the course sponsor booth in the virtual Expo Hall or related technology and products that were discussed.
The RMDC Anywhere team is here to help! If you need assistance registering on rmdconline.com, have questions about specific courses or speakers or want to make sure your technology is ready for the convention, contact the team at mdds@mddsdentist.com or call 303-488-9700. Be sure to like RMDConline on Facebook for more tips.
The MDDS volunteers, speakers, vendors, sponsors and team have been working for months to design a truly dynamic experience and can’t wait to share RMDC Anywhere with you.