Conference • Nov 6–7, 2026 • Calgary, AB, Canada

Thinking is not
a Subject.
It’s a Skill.

Join us for the inaugural conference dedicated to applying the Building Thinking Classrooms framework to every subject area K–12.

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Hosted By

The Consortium - Calgary Office

Thinking Doesn't Stop at the Math Door.

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.

  • Beyond the Book Adapting vertical surfaces for writing, inquiry, and discussion-based subjects.
  • Cross-Curricular Collaboration Connect with educators successfully implementing BTC in Humanities, Science, and the Arts.
  • Leadership Insights Strategies for Admins and Coaches to support and scale these practices.
Students collaborating at a whiteboard
Building Thinking Classrooms logo The Framework

What is Building Thinking Classrooms?

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 website
Target Audience

A Conference for Every Classroom

ELA & Literacy

Using vertical surfaces for essay planning, literary analysis, and collaborative writing.

STEM

Foster the resilience and hypothesis-testing mindset required for true scientific inquiry.

Math

Go beyond the basics with advanced sessions on consolidation, assessment, and flow.

Leadership

Strategies for cultural change, observation tools, and supporting teachers through implementation.

Learn from the Leaders

We are bringing the experts to Calgary to help you refine your practice.

Peter Liljedahl

Peter Liljedahl

Keynote Speaker

Author & Professor, SFU. Setting the stage for how these revolutionary practices are evolving beyond the math classroom.

Maegan Giroux

Maegan Giroux

Speaker

Co-author and expert facilitator, specializing in classroom culture and adapting tasks for diverse needs.

Kyle Webb

Kyle Webb

Speaker

Co-author and expert facilitator, offering practical insights on implementation and assessment.

View All Speakers

Browse the full presenter lineup on our schedule platform.

See the Directory

Sessions for Every Subject

From 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

Equity, Access & Inclusion

Designing thinking spaces that honor every learner — Indigenous education, neurodiversity, and ELL support.

Assessment in a Thinking Classroom

Evaluating student thinking, building rubrics, and communicating progress beyond traditional grading.

Across the Curriculum

BTC practices in Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Arts Education, and beyond.

21st Century Learning & Technology

Integrating AI and digital tools without disrupting the collaborative thinking process.

Leadership, Coaching & Systemic Change

Supporting teachers, shifting school culture, and leading PD that models thinking practices.

Pedagogy & Practice (The BTC Core)

Deep dives into the 14 practices — flow, consolidation, task sequencing, and more.

Classroom Reflections & Stories

Real stories from the classroom — successes, productive failures, and honest pivots.

View Full Schedule
The Venue

Join Us in Calgary

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.

International Guests

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.

Common Questions

What is the cost of the conference?

We are pleased to offer tiered pricing to reward early registrants:

  • Super Early Bird: $400 CAD (ends May 31)
  • Early Bird: $450 CAD (ends August 30)
  • Regular Rate: $495 CAD
Is this only for math teachers?

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.

I'm not Canadian. Can I still attend?

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.

What does my registration include?

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.

What payment methods are accepted?

Payment is strictly Credit Card only (VISA or Mastercard). Please note that we do not accept American Express (AmEx) or school Purchase Orders (POs).

Who do I contact for help with registration?

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.

Do I need prior experience with the framework?

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.

Will I receive a certificate of attendance?

Yes. All attendees will receive a digital certificate of completion following the conference, which can be used for professional development reporting.

Will Peter Liljedahl be there?

Yes! Peter Liljedahl will be delivering the keynote address and we are excited to welcome him to Calgary.