HCSS 2020 Virtual Conference Venue
While we look forward to the day when we can come together in Annapolis again, for 2021 the HCSS Conference will be held virtually. The talk and panel presentations will take place on the Hopin virtual conferencing platform. Hopin is a virtual venue with multiple interactive areas that are optimized for connecting and engaging. Networking sessions, breakout discussions, and fireside chats will take place on the Gather.town platform. Registered attendees will receive an email with instructions for accessing the platforms in the week prior to the event.
Hopin
Hopin is a web-based platform, you will not need to download additional software to attend the conference. There are several things you can do to ensure you have the best experience on Hopin:
- In general, using a laptop or desktop will be much more successful than a tablet or phone. To test your internet connection, you can do a speedtest.net test. ("Upload" speed is the most important measure).
- Chrome is the recommended browser. Firefox will work as well. Please avoid Brave, Safari, and Microsoft IE or Edge for now.
- Take a moment to watch the Hopin introductory video which will give you a complete overview of the platform and the various interactive areas.
Gather Town
We have enabled a Gather Town virtual world for the whole duration of the conference. Gather is a unique environment that allows attendees to interact, socialize, meet new people and talk about research in a more organic way. Move your avatar around the 2D world with 8-bit graphics by using your keyboard's arrow keys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I access the platforms?
In the week prior to the symposium, registrants will receive an email with instructions on how to access Hopin and Gather. Please be sure to register in order to receive the credentials. There is no fee to attend this year.
Can I listen to the symposium via phone?
No. Audio can only be heard through Hopin directly via your web browser. There is no dial in option.
What technology do I need to attend this event?
An internet connection that allows you to participate in a Google Meet or Zoom call is sufficient for both the Hopin and Gather platforms. For Hopin, you do not need a camera or microphone unless you want to come on screen to ask a question. For Gather, you will need a camera and microphone for the best experience. If you do not have a camera and microphone installed, you will still be able to walk around the Gather event space, view posters, and interact with other attendees via the chat.
What kind of technical support will be provided?
There will be a dedicated help desk in both the Hopin and Gather platforms. The help desks will be staffed for the duration of the symposium. In hopin, select the 'Help Desk' icon from the left-hand vertical navigation bar. In Gather, the Help Desk is located in the main lobby. You may also email hotsos2021@cps-vo.org and a staff member will promptly assist you.
Q: What’s the difference between the Event and Session chat?
A: The event chat is for conference-wide discussions. It’s accessible on every page of the platform. The session chat is for discussions during session presentations. Questions for speakers should be put in the session chat.
Q: What happens when I send an attendee a direct message?
A: Attendees can message each other through direct messages. To send a DM, find the person you wish to chat with in the People tab, click their profile photo and send the message. A red dot in the recipient’s People tab and on the envelope icon (top right) will let them know they have a new message.
Q: What happens when I invite another attendee to a video call?
A: The attendee will receive a direct message letting them know that you’ve invited them to a video call. You will both receive a link to a private session room within Hopin. The room will allow up to five people to share their webcam, therefore you may share the link with up to three other people.