Call for Papers: Orality & Literature Conference, April 3-4, 2025, Geneva College

2nd International Conference on Orality & Literacy in the Curricula

Deadline for Submission: Saturday, December 14th, 2024, 11:59 p.m. EST

Proposal Submissions: Attn. Blaine Gutberlet, btgutber1@geneva.edu

Walter J. Ong’s discussion in his influential books The Presence of the Word and Orality & Literacy invite us to ask, what are words and how do words work? Such basic questions, often taken for granted historically, technologically, and theologically, should instead prompt further inquiry. Ong’s contributions suggest we might find fruitful cues for thought by continuing to study modern means of communication. Ong’s reflections on oral patterns of thinking, transitions in writing and printing, and prescient insights regarding our social media technologies provoke stimulating questions worth considering, and in this year’s conference we invite application of his ideas to academic curricula, with our expectation that professors and practitioners in diverse fields will explore these connections.

Paper proposal submissions should be a 300-500 word abstract with a bibliography. Abstracts can be submitted either as a Microsoft Word document or a PDF. Please email submissions to administrative assistant Blaine Gutberlet at btgutber1@geneva.edu. Please indicate in your proposal whether you would need any A/V equipment (essential equipment only, please). 

If you have any questions, please contact the program planners for questions regarding the conference or submission via the administrative assistant.

Proposals may be received by mail at:

Geneva College – Attn: Blaine Gutberlet 3200 College Ave, Beaver Falls, PA 150