Abstract Writing Guidelines

Students from the following colleges should follow the Guidelines below:

• College of Business and Public Management
• College of Education
• College of Science, Mathematics, and Technology
• College of Health Professions and Human Services

1. Abstract 

• Word Limit: 150 -350 words. Adhere to this limit strictly.
•  Tables, charts, and graphs are prohibited in abstracts.
• Formatting
  • Font: Regular, no bold (except for section headings if applicable).
  • Font size: 12 pt
  • Line spacing: 1.5 or double-spaced
• Structure: The abstract MUST include the following headings:  PURPOSE, METHODS, CONCLUSION and SIGNIFANCE/NOVELTY.  

 2. Title

• Clear and Concise: Your title should be specific and reflect the core of your research. Avoid overly technical language or jargon.
• Attention-Grabbing: Make it engaging while staying true to the content of your research.

3. Introduction/Background

• Research Context: Briefly introduce the problem or research question you're addressing. Why is it important? Provide a concise background.
• Objective/Purpose: State the main objective or purpose of your research in one or two sentences.

Example: "This study investigates the impact of urban green spaces on mental health in city populations."

4. Methods

• Brief Description: Summarize your research design, methods, or approach in one or two sentences.
• Key Techniques: Mention the research methods (e.g., surveys, experiments, qualitative interviews) but avoid too much detail.

Example: "A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys of 150 participants with qualitative interviews."

5. Conclusion/Impact

• Implications: Explain the broader implications of your research. How does it contribute to the field or society?
• Future Directions: If appropriate, mention any next steps or future research areas that arise from your findings.

Example: "These findings suggest that urban green spaces may play a crucial role in mitigating stress in urban populations, highlighting the need for more accessible public green areas."

6. Keywords

• Relevance: Choose 3-5 keywords that describe your research focus. These help conference organizers categorize your abstract and assist others in finding your research.

Example: Urban Green Spaces, Mental Health, Stress, Public Health, Environmental Psychology

7. Writing Style

• Clarity and Precision: Be concise and clear. Avoid jargon or overly technical language unless essential for your audience.
• Active Voice: Use active voice (e.g., "The study found" rather than "It was found by the study").
• No References: Do not include citations or references to literature in the abstract.
• No Figures or Tables: Keep the abstract text-based unless the conference specifically requests visual content.
• No New Information: The abstract should summarize existing research and findings. Avoid introducing new concepts not yet explored in the body of your work.

8. Proofread and Edit

• Check Grammar and Spelling: Review your abstract for any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Word Choice: Ensure that you use clear, precise language. Avoid ambiguity and overly complex sentences.
• Seek Feedback: Have a peer, mentor, or advisor read your abstract to ensure clarity and relevance.

Sample Abstract Format:

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance Among College Students

Author: John Smith, Department of Psychology, XYZ University

Abstract:

Social media use has become ubiquitous among college students, raising concerns about its impact on academic performance. Previous studies have indicated both positive and negative effects of social media on students' academic outcomes, but the overall relationship remains unclear. This study explores the impact of social media usage on the academic performance of college students, focusing on the amount of time spent on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

A total of 200 undergraduate students participated in this research, completing a survey assessing their social media habits and academic performance. The survey measured the number of hours spent on social media per day, the types of activities engaged in, and self-reported GPA scores. In addition, participants were asked about their perceived academic distractions from social media and their strategies for managing these distractions.

The results indicate a significant negative correlation between the number of hours spent on social media and GPA. Students who reported spending more than three hours per day on social media had lower GPAs compared to those who used social media less frequently. Interestingly, students who used social media primarily for academic purposes, such as accessing study groups or educational content, showed no significant difference in academic performance from those who used social media less frequently.

These findings suggest that excessive use of social media can negatively affect academic performance, particularly when used for non-academic purposes. However, when used strategically for educational benefits, social media may not hinder academic success. This research highlights the importance of managing social media habits to ensure students' academic success, and it recommends that universities offer workshops on effective social media use for academic purposes.

Keywords: Social Media, Academic Performance, College Students, GPA, Time Management

Students from the following colleges should follow the concept statement guidelines below:

• College of Liberal Arts
• Michael Graves College

1. Concept Statement/Artist Statement Submission Guidelines

• Word Limit: 250 words maximum. Adhere to this limit strictly.
• Formatting
  • Font: Regular, no bold (except for section headings if applicable).
  • Font size: 12 pt
  • Line spacing: 1.5 or double-spaced
• Structure: The abstract MUST include the following headings:  PURPOSE, METHODS, CONCLUSION and SIGNIFANCE/NOVELTY.

• 2. Title

• Attention-Grabbing: Make it engaging while staying true to the content of your research

3. Writing Style

• Clarity and Precision: Be concise and clear. Avoid jargon or overly technical language unless essential for your audience.

4. Proofread and Edit

• Check Grammar and Spelling: Review your abstract for any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Word Choice: Ensure that you use clear, precise language. Avoid ambiguity and overly complex sentences.
• Seek Feedback: Have a peer, mentor, or advisor read your abstract to ensure clarity and relevance.

Sample Concept Statement Format:

Title: "Fragments of Time: A Multisensory Exploration of Memory and Identity"

Author: John Smith, Department of -, XYZ University

"Fragments of Time" is a creative project that explores the intricate relationship between memory, identity, and the passage of time through an immersive, multisensory experience. This project aims to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling by incorporating visual art, sound design, and interactive elements to invite the audience into a deeply personal, yet universal exploration of how we remember, forget, and reconstruct our past.

Drawing on my background in multimedia art and my passion for experimental storytelling, "Fragments of Time" fuses digital video projections with physical installations. Each fragment of memory is represented by a unique combination of fragmented visuals, abstract soundscapes, and tactile elements that the audience can touch and manipulate. Through these sensory inputs, the audience will embark on a journey that mirrors the fragmented, nonlinear way we experience and recall our own histories.

At the creative conference, I will present the process behind the project, including conceptual development, the challenges of integrating multiple art forms, and how technology can enhance emotional storytelling. This presentation aims to spark a conversation about the future of interactive art and its ability to communicate complex psychological and emotional experiences. My goal is to inspire fellow creatives to experiment with multisensory approaches in their own work, encouraging a deeper connection between the audience and the art they experience.