Join us for the inaugural conference dedicated to applying the Building Thinking Classrooms framework to every subject area K–12.
Not ready to register yet?
Sign up for our mailing list to get updates.
You know the framework changes how students approach problems. But "thinking" isn't exclusive to mathematics. Whether you are analyzing historical texts, conducting science labs, or critiquing literature, the battle against passive learning is universal.
This conference brings together educators from all disciplines to translate the 14 practices of thinking classrooms into new contexts.
Based on 15 years of research by Peter Liljedahl, the Building Thinking Classrooms framework is a set of 14 teaching practices designed to get students thinking instead of mimicking. It moves instruction away from passive listening and towards active, collaborative problem-solving using vertical surfaces and random groups.
Learn more at the official websiteUsing vertical surfaces for essay planning, literary analysis, and collaborative writing.
Foster the resilience and hypothesis-testing mindset required for true scientific inquiry.
Go beyond the basics with advanced sessions on consolidation, assessment, and flow.
Strategies for cultural change, observation tools, and supporting teachers through implementation.
We are bringing the experts to Calgary to help you refine your practice.
Keynote Speaker
Author & Professor, SFU. Setting the stage for how these revolutionary practices are evolving beyond the math classroom.
Speaker
Co-author and expert facilitator, specializing in classroom culture and adapting tasks for diverse needs.
Speaker
Co-author and expert facilitator, offering practical insights on implementation and assessment.
Browse the full presenter lineup on our schedule platform.
See the DirectoryFrom vertical surfaces in French class to random groups in Physics, our full schedule spans Art to Zoology. Explore the sessions, speakers, and strands below.
Sessions Across 7 Strands
Designing thinking spaces that honor every learner — Indigenous education, neurodiversity, and ELL support.
Evaluating student thinking, building rubrics, and communicating progress beyond traditional grading.
BTC practices in Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Arts Education, and beyond.
Integrating AI and digital tools without disrupting the collaborative thinking process.
Supporting teachers, shifting school culture, and leading PD that models thinking practices.
Deep dives into the 14 practices — flow, consolidation, task sequencing, and more.
Real stories from the classroom — successes, productive failures, and honest pivots.
We are thrilled to host this gathering in Canada, the birthplace of the research. The Telus Convention Centre is located in the heart of downtown, steps away from world-class dining and the C-Train.
Airport: YYC (Calgary International)
Currency: Canadian Dollars (CAD)
Please check visa requirements before booking.
Need a place to stay? See our recommended hotels near the venue.
We are pleased to offer tiered pricing to reward early registrants:
Absolutely not! While the framework originated in math, this conference is specifically designed to showcase how these practices apply to Science, English, Social Studies, and more.
Yes! We welcome educators from all over the world. Please note that all transactions are processed in Canadian Dollars (CAD), and you may require a visa or eTA to enter Canada. Please check current government regulations before booking travel.
Your ticket includes full access to all keynote and breakout sessions, coffee/tea service in the morning, and a hot lunch on both days of the conference.
Payment is strictly Credit Card only (VISA or Mastercard). Please note that we do not accept American Express (AmEx) or school Purchase Orders (POs).
Registration is managed by our partners at the Alberta Professional Learning Consortium (APLC). If you have questions about payment, modifications, or your account, please email calgary@aplc.ca.
Not at all. Whether you are brand new to Building Thinking Classrooms or have been implementing it for years, there is a place for you. The schedule includes dedicated introductory sessions for beginners, as well as advanced masterclasses for experienced practitioners.
Yes. All attendees will receive a digital certificate of completion following the conference, which can be used for professional development reporting.
Yes! Peter Liljedahl will be delivering the keynote address and we are excited to welcome him to Calgary.