Learning updates convey information in only one direction.  A conference is an important opportunity for further dialogue.

A three-way conference is one in which parents/guardians, students and teachers are actively involved in reviewing student strengths, setting goals, and determining support in attaining goals. The students would be responsible for sharing their learning orally and through work samples. 

A student-led conference is one in which the student and parent are actively engaged, with the student taking responsibility for leading the conference, and the teacher acting as a facilitator. The student is responsible for sharing his/her learning orally and through work samples.

Remember, reporting conferences need not be your only contact with your child's teacher.  An interview can be scheduled at your request any time during the school year.