Call for Papers -- Poster Session
Deadline for Submission -- October 1, 2007

PURPOSE: The poster session provides individuals an opportunity to present a poster on applied research they have conducted on new or different educational methods/techniques they have used, or to illustrate how an identified educational need in the camping community was addressed and what the observed results were. This could include specialty camps or new innovative programs.

ELIGIBILITY: All NCI participants are eligible to compete.

GUIDELINES:

  • An individual or team of 2 or more may submit a proposal for a poster session on one poster in a category.
  • An individual or team of 2 or more may submit one or more posters; however, only one poster will be accepted for a category.
  • Poster size must be no larger than 44" x 44", but not smaller than 36" x 24".
  • Winners will be awarded first, second, and third places. If a team of 2 or more wins, the amount is to be divided among those team members.
  • The posters must be set up in the Poster Session area 1hour before session to begin in order to qualify. Judging will take place immediately after set up.
  • The Poster Session Committee will have full authority to accept or reject a poster abstract upon evaluation of the title and submitted abstract. The committee's decision is final.
  • Each poster accepted must have a person(s) to be present to talk about the poster contents.
  • All posters must be displayed until the end of the event.

JUDGING
Poster judging will be based on the following criteria:

  1. Scientific/Educational Merit (60 Points)
  2. Poster Presentation (30 Points)
  3. Follows Instructions for Presentation/Mounting (10 Points)
 ENTRY
Complete the "General Application Form" (attached) and write an abstract. Both must be sent to Bryan Branch. These must be submitted by October 1, 2007. See attached abstract example and format that must be followed.

AWARDS
Awards will be given in the form of scholarships toward the next NCI at the following amounts:

Best Contributed Poster -- $250 and a certificate
Second Place -- $175 and a certificate
Third Place -- $100 and a certificate

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING ABSTRACTS

  1. Abstract Format
    1. The text should be roughly 150-250 words. An original copy of the abstract has to be submitted.
    2. TITLES SHOULD BE COMPLETELY CAPITALIZED and typed from the left margin on the first line. It should not be underlined. The body of the abstract should be fully justified (both margins even).
    3. Name(s) of author(s), Camp(s), and addresses should be entered two lines below the title line. Name(s) of author(s) should be underlined and written in the order of family name and the initials of the given and middle name. The last name of the presenter should be marked with an asterisk (*) at right.
    4. Insert an empty line before beginning to type text. Text should be preceded with a space of three letters.

Supporting Materials
Material that supports the poster (i.e., workshop workbooks, handouts, etc.) may be placed below the poster on the floor. Room for supporting material is limited to space directly below your poster. A pocket may be attached below each poster to allow people who are interested in learning more about your program to leave their business cards.

"Quality Matters When Preparing a Poster"

Adapted from Comminicaid article by Evie Liss and Bernadine Strik, 1991

  1. How well is the message conveyed (simplicity and clarity of the message)? Most people spend less than 10 minutes at a poster. Each poster will be evaluated for a center of interest to identify and introduce the message.
  2. How easy is the poster to read at 3 feet? Readability of lettering style is important.
  3. Is the poster visually balanced and organized? Successful posters do not crowd the information.
  4. Does the poster use colors and contrast to visually attract the readers? Contrasting colors are used to lead the viewer's eye throughout the poster, and imaginative ways to add color might include photographs, illustrations, charts, graphs, and colored poster board.

Judging/Scoring Details (30 Points)
1.Scientific/Educational Merit:(60 Points)
Hypothesis or need for research/educational activity clearly stated (i.e. Situational Analysis)15 Points
Sound research/education methodology used to prepare project (i.e. Program Logic Model)20 Points
Presentation of research/activity adequate for reader to gain understanding10 Points
Results of research/educational activity clearly stated.15 Points
2.Poster Presentation
Uses a good combination of text and graphics to explain message5 Points
(Presents one to three main points, etc.) Ease of reading text and graphics on poster - Is the print too small (on graphics or text) to read easily? Are concise, easy to understand sentences used?10 Points
Information on poster is balanced and organized. Information is not crowded. Poster has logical order.10 Points
Poster uses colors and contrast to visually attract readers.5 Points
3.Follows instructions for presentation/Mounting(10 Points)
Title, authors name(s), affiliations, and addresses appear on poster. (supporting materials not required) Overall appearance is neat and pleasing to the eye.
Total Points 100 Points

GENERAL APPLICATION FORM
2008 NCI POSTER SESSION

Name:     Camp/Facility:

Position:     Office Address:

Office Phone:     City:

Fax:     State: Zip:

E-mail:

If this application represents a team effort, include the names of team members here (attach additional sheet if necessary):

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

By submitting this form I verify that I have read and understand the rules, and certify that my entry meets the requirements for the "Poster Session" entry. I have also attached my abstract.

Check one:
Applied Research
Education

Poster Title:

DEADLINE for submission is October 1, 2007