The following tutorial is a guide to writing an effective NASPA proposal. The tutorial includes the following:

• Characteristics of Effective Proposals
• Evaluation Criteria Used by Program Reviewers
• Guidelines for Writing an Effective Title, Abstract, Program Description and Learning Objectives
• Links to Well-written Proposals

Characteristics of Effective Proposals

1. Relevance to the conference theme

   Proposals should reflect the conference themes which are detailed in the Call for Programs. Before preparing a proposal, you should evaluate your presentation topic and determine if it relates to the themes.

2. Evidence of a solid foundation for proposal content

   The Program Committee is interested in submissions that show evidence of a future orientation, that illuminate a persistent issue with a new and creative solution, and that will get you and your colleagues thinking in some new ways. Please do not feel any obligation to repeat the conference theme in your program's title. It is the concept of the conference, not the words in its title, which should inform your proposal.

3. Adherence to proposal submission guidelines

   It is important to include all information requested in the program proposal guidelines and adhere to length restrictions where indicated. Please note that the Program Committee will ask you to identify the two target audiences for whom your program is likely to be most relevant. We recognize that your colleagues at many levels may benefit from your session, but for purposes of ensuring an appropriate distribution of programs across levels, we will ask you to identify your top two only.

4. Reflective of good writing practices

   Well-written proposals are rated more favorably than those lacking clarity, specificity and conciseness. A logical program organization should be evident. Proofreading your proposal before submitting is essential.

Evaluation Criteria Used by Program Reviewers

Your proposal will be evaluated by approximately six program reviewers using the following five standards:

1. Contribution to the conference theme and/or profession
2. Clearly stated purpose and objectives
3. Engaging program format that involves the audience and stimulates discussion
4. Conceptually strong foundation
5. Qualified presenters with expertise in the subject matter

Guidelines for Writing an Effective Title, Abstract, Program Description and Learning Objectives

Writing the Program Abstract and Title

The program abstract and title are the portions of the proposal that are printed in the conference booklet. Both should be considered thoughtfully, written concisely, and thoroughly proofread before submitting.

Writing an Effective Program Title

The program title is your first opportunity to invite the reader to your program. An effective title encourages the reader to review the abstract; a poorly written title can cause the reader to dismiss the program. Again, please do not feel that you must repeat the program theme in your title, it is the concept of the theme, not the words which make a successful session submission.

At a minimum, an effective program title ...

• Introduces the subject of the program
• Captures the interest of the reader
• Adheres to NASPA title length restrictions (10-12 words)

If appropriate, an effective program title ...

• Identifies the scope, sequence and/or level of the program content
• Identifies sponsors or specific group presenting
• Identifies potential target audiences

Example of Well Written Program Title

Example of a Poorly Written Program Title

Writing an Effective Abstract

The abstract is a brief description of your presentation that provides the reader with an accurate picture of what the presentation will cover. Well-written abstracts identify the purpose and intent of the program, are concise, organized and specific. Additionally, effective abstracts begin with the most important information or thought. Defining unfamiliar abbreviations and acronyms is helpful to the reader. At a minimum, an effective abstract ...

• Captures the attention of the reader
• Adheres to the proposal submission guidelines (80 words)
• Previews the content and what the conferee can learn
• Identifies the manner of audience involvement
• Clarifies the contribution of the topic to the field
• Alludes to the benefits of the program content

If appropriate, an effective abstract ...

• Summarizes the content and activities of the presentation
• Distinguishes the program format (e.g., group discussion)
• Explains instruments or other research or technology tools
• Clarifies special programs which may not be familiar to NASPA members
• Designates the scope, sequence and/or level of the program content
• Names the potential target audiences

Example of a well written abstract

Writing an Effective Program Description

The program description provides an in-depth look at the content of the proposed presentation. Program reviewers rely on a well-written description to enhance their understanding of the content and goals of the presentation. A complete description includes background information, an overview of the presentation, and a description of the format. If the program is reporting research, a description of methods, findings and recommendations may be appropriate. The program description should also include learning outcomes (see tutorial), the relationship of the program to the meeting themes, methods of audience involvement (i.e., engaging in discussion, sharing effective practices, analyzing a case study), and the familiarity and background of the presenters with the subject matter of the program.

Effective learning outcomes ...

• Define the intended outcomes of the presentation
• Identify the action or level of thought required of the learner (understand, comprehend, synthesize, compare and contrast, categorize, identify, apply)
• Are learner centered
• May describe the degree to which the outcome will be achieved
• Identify how the learner will achieve the outcome

Example of a well written learning outcome

Links to Well-written Proposals

• Sample Proposal 1: Learning Communities: Opportunities for a Shared Vision of Student Success
• Sample Proposal 2: Critical Perspectives of Ethical Leadership
• Sample Proposal 3: Assessing Good Practices: The National Survey of Student Engagement