The most effective open sessions catalyze new ideas and may lead to proposals for new collaborations, expert groups, workshops, data products, analytical tools, theme sessions or conferences.
Anyone present at the ASC is invited to join an open session. Topics for open sessions can be proposed by anyone in the ICES network. The most effective open sessions usually tackle challenging topics and bring together scientists and advisors who may not interact on a regular basis.
The structure of open sessions is decided by the proponents, and they will also identify any speakers for the proposed sessions and the format for discussions. Successful proponents of open sessions are rewarded with reduced registration fees at the ASC.
Typically, eight open sessions will be held at an ASC. The number of sessions is limited to maximize participation and avoid overlaps with other conference activities. If more open sessions are proposed than we can accommodate then these will be prioritized by the Science Committee. This prioritization is based on merit, relevance to the ICES mission and to achieve a balance of science, data and advice-focused topics.
Once an open session is successfully completed, the leaders of the session produce a report on outcomes, including any recommendations for future activity, for the Science and/or Advisory Committees and publication on the ICES website. These reports help ICES identify future science, data and advisory priorities and support the ICES network.