Call for Abstracts
Guidelines and Submission Information
Abstract Deadline
The deadline for abstract submissions is March 26, 2012.
Completion of Forms
Please complete two abstract submission forms:
- Abstract Submission Form - Practice (Word Document): needs to be submitted in its entirety with full author and contact information.
- Abstract Submission Form - Research (Word Document): needs to be submitted simultaneously, containing only the suggested track, level, title, and abstract for blind review.
Abstract text must be typed and may not exceed 500 words. Only electronic submissions, using the form provided, will be accepted. Incomplete or faxed submissions will not be considered for review. Submit both versions of the form to: abstracts@son.umaryland.edu.
Scholarships and Cash Awards
Click here for information on scholarships and cash awards.
Selection Criteria
- Adherence to guidelines
- Clarity and quality of abstract
- Relevance to one or more conference objectives and/or tracks
- Potential for contribution to knowledge and/or practice
- Significance and innovation
Review Process and Notification
The abstracts will be judged through a blind review process based on the criteria above. Only the lead author will receive email notification of abstract status on or about April 30, 2012. The lead author is expected to relay this information to additional authors. Only authors listed on the original abstract will be listed in the program materials.
Acceptance to Present and Registration
Presenters are expected to register to attend the conference on the day of their presentation and to pay for their own expenses associated with the conference, unless awarded a scholarship to cover registration costs. Your acceptance to present and a completed registration form must be received on or before May 14, 2012. Failure to register by this deadline will constitute a decline to present.
Guidelines for Presenters
Workshop for Presenters
All podium and poster presenters are invited to a free workshop on effective speaking and presentation techniques from 8:30 - 9:15 a.m., Wednesday, July 18, 2012, prior to the keynote address. Please respond with your attendance plans via email or make a notation on your registration form.
Podium Presentations
Each podium presentation will last 30 minutes, e.g., 20-minute presentation followed by 10-minute discussion. The successful presentation generally covers new material, with a focus on recent accomplishments, and offers practical application.
Poster Presentations
Posters describe programs or research projects by visually depicting concepts and context. Authors will have the opportunity to discuss their projects and distribute handouts. The poster session will take place during a catered lunch from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Friday, July 20, 2012. This arrangement permits ample networking. Authors should set up the posters on the prepared stands between 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. Friday, July 20, 2012, and remove them by 2 p.m. that same day. The posters should be no larger than 4' high by 6' wide and should be displayed using push pins, which will be provided.