SDT CONFERENCES: AN OVERVIEW

In 1999, the First International Conference on Self-Determination Theory was held at the University of Rochester, and in 2004, the Second International Conference on Self-Determination Theory was held at the University of Ottawa.  A resounding response to prior conferences has been that participants appreciate the opportunity to get together with others who are interested in similar ideas to their own, to discuss and extend their own current research from feedback received from experts in their area, and to build relationships that will facilitate their research—perhaps even to find collaborators with whom they can work on shared interests.

It is clear that holding the conference now represents a timely update from the last gathering.  Since the 2nd conference, the interest in SDT has grown exponentially.  Indeed, we currently have over 450 members on our listserv, with new additions daily.  SDT has gained greater stature and visibility in the field in recent years, as evidenced by target articles in major journals in the field, featured keynote addresses for numerous international conferences, prominent positions held in the field by SDT members, and major grant awards from the most prestigious public and private funding agencies.  It is clear that recognition of, and interest in, SDT is substantial, and that the conference is growing in an organic way, much like the theory itself.

The Third International Self-Determination Theory conference was held this year on May 24-27th, 2007 at the University of Toronto.

Click the links to get more information about the first, second, and third conference.