Center for Plain Language

Advocating Plain Language: Research, Evidence, and Tools for Action

Register for the Symposium
Symposium Agenda - November 15, 2006

1:00 – 1:30
Registration “Meet and Greet”
Soft drinks and snacks provided

1:30 – 1:45
Opening remarks
Thom Haller, Executive Director, Center for Plain Language will welcome participants, introduce speakers, offer a few exuberant words, and outline the afternoon’s program.

1:45 – 2:45
Panel discussion: “What’s the evidence for plain language?”
Join our moderator and panel of experts as they explore anecdotal and scientific plain-language research and clearly define the evidence supporting plain language advocacy.

2:45 – 3:15
Open discussion: “So we have evidence…Now what?”
This open discussion will build on ideas presented by the panel. All members are encouraged to participate and share their anecdotes and ideas about research-based plain language advocacy. (This discussion will be recorded.)

3:15 – 3:30
Break
Soft drinks and snacks provided

3:30 – 5:00
Round-table discussions and report back: “What can we do now?”
Join one of the following moderated groups. Identify tools and action items for outreach, based on the evidence for plain language. At the end of this session, each group will present talking points related to their topic.
  • Practicing What We Preach—Ten ways to be sure we, the advocates, use plain language on the job and beyond (and why it’s important to do so). How can we be true to the research?
  • Taking It to the Streets—Plain language isn’t just for government. Why is outreach important? How do schools and non-government organizations embrace plain language? List seven to ten steps for articulating the research.
  • Building Strategic Alliances—How can we create strategic alliances for plain language with companies and not-for-profits? How can we help organizations make a commitment to clarity? Create a list of ten action steps.
  • Being Newsworthy—How can we gain attention about clarity, its benefits and methods? Develop a top ten list of strategies for raising awareness?

5:00 – 5:15
Membership Business

5:15 – 6:30
Reception
Enjoy this opportunity to say hello to old friends, meet new ones, and expand your plain-language network.
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