Keywords
Citation
(2000), "Conferences and exhibitions - PREP 2000", Kybernetes, Vol. 29 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/k.2000.06729bab.006
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2000, MCB UP Limited
Conferences and exhibitions - PREP 2000
Conferences and exhibitionsStudent centred conference - PREP 2000
Keywords Research, Conferences, Information technology, Computers, Students
A conference that is designed for postgraduate researchers and their supervisors has to be encouraged and is most certainly an important step for the postgraduate community and indeed, the whole research community. The conference, to be held at Nottingham University, UK from 11-13 April 2000 is supported by the UK's Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). Up to 250 free places are to be offered to students, with priority to EPSRC-funded students who are presenting papers.
Dr Mark Wilkins, the IT&CS programme manager provides good reasons why it has been organised:
There is evidence to suggest that many students feel rather isolated and need more contact with each other and with industry. PREP will offer an opportunity and I hope that as many students and supervisors as possible will take part.
This is backed up by a survey carried out by Strategic Marketing Associates (SMA), which is a research company that specialises in the education and training sectors. The survey was carried out because of the concern about maintaining a supply of well-trained researchers and academic staff. This is a concern that is felt worldwide where attempts have been made to raise not only the number of intending researchers as indicated by the numbers of PhD candidates, but also the quality. (Because of its important findings a summary of the SMA survey is included in this section of the journal.)
PREP will provide students with a unique opportunity to present their work, meet other students outside their immediate area of expertise, meet eminent industrialists and potential future employers, and to develop their business skills. An impressive line-up of internationally respected figures will lead a plenary forum. Also highlighted in the event is the presence of Trevor Bayliss, the inventor of the clockwork radio and campaigner for a Royal Academy of Invention.
Although the conference is for postgraduate researchers in their second and third years and for young researchers in industry their student supervisors are also encouraged to attend.
Full details are available in the Special Announcements section of this issue.