Web-Based Conference

'Making Sense of a VUCA World', Tuesday May 19th, 2020

The first in our series of live, web-based conferences takes place on the week our International 'Fostering Hope and Optimism' Conference was scheduled in Ireland this May. Due to having post-poned this event until October, we decided to host an online conference in its stead to continue to share information and ideas despite the current restrictions across the globe.

This first live, web-based conference is titled 'Making Sense of a VUCA World: Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous'. VUCA is an acronym which originated at a US Army War college to describe the post-war environment. Psychologists have applied the same principles to individuals who are highly distressed, and often see the world as a chaotic and unpredictable place. In light of the Covid-19 crisis, the principles of VUCA apply to the uncertain environments professionals, families, and individuals alike now find themselves in.

This conference will consist of three 1 hour presentations followed by interactive discussion. This will be hosted on the live webinar system Zoom, and allow participants to ask the speakers questions to be answered in real time.

Speakers

Professor Andrew McDonnell

CEO of Studio 3, Clinical Psychologist

Andy's work has for many years focused on the impact of stress reduction on well-being for both carers and distressed individuals. As the originator of the Low Arousal Approach, a method for managing behaviour of concern and reducing overall stress in an individual's environment, Andy's talk will be on 'Coping with the Stress of an Uncertain World'.

Peter Vermeulen

Founder of 'Autism in Context'

Peter is an internationally-respected speaker and trainer who works mainly in the field of autism research and education. Peter's research into the 'autistic brain' has informed practice all over the globe. Peter will be speaking about 'Absolute Thinking in a Relative World', and how to support people who may find the world to be a chaotic and uncertain place.

Adam Harris

Founder of 'AsIAm Ireland'

Adam is an activist and founder of the autism acceptance group AsIAm Ireland. Based on his lived experiences of autism, Adam is an inspiring speaker whose goal is to increase knowledge, awareness and acceptance of autism. He will be speaking about 'Making the World Less Chaotic: Building an Autism-Friendly Society'

Schedule

Welcome Address

10:00 - 10:15

Professor Andrew McDonnell, Director of Studio 3, welcomes delegates to the online conference and explains a few housekeeping points.

'Coping with the Stress of an Uncertain World'

10:15 - 11:45

Professor Andrew McDonnell presents on 'Coping with the Stress of an Uncertain World', followed by up to 30 minutes interactive answer period with live questions from delegates and discussion with panelists.

Break

11:45 - 12:00

A small break for refreshments and snacks.

'The Autistic Brain: Absolute Thinking in a Relative World'

12:00 - 13:30

Peter Vermuelen presents on 'The Autistic Brain: Absolute Thinking in a Relative World', followed by up to 30 minutes interactive answer session with live questions from delegates and discussion with panelists.

Lunch

13:30 - 14:00

A short lunch break for delegates and speakers, with entertainment provided throughout.

'Making the World Less Chaotic: Building an Autism Friendly Society'

14:00 - 15:30

Adam Harris presents on 'Making the World Less Chaotic: Building an Autism Friendly Society', followed by up to 30 minutes of questions from delegates and discussion with panelists.

Closing Address

15:30 - 15:45

A summary of the event followed by a closing statement from Professor Andrew McDonnell.

Book Now!

The cost of this web-based conference is £40 (per person). This conference is free to ticket holders who have already purchased tickets to our International Conference now postponed until October, and discounts are available for families and groups. To claim your free ticket or to discuss discount options, please contact or call us on 01225 334 111.

Book Now!