SIGN6 and SIGN7

[Ulrike Zeshan]

Dear colleagues,

the iSLanDS Institute is in the planning stages for the next SIGN conferences, and we would like to open up the possibility for potential partners to express interest in hosting a conference. Below is some background information on the SIGN series, and some issues for potential host institutions to consider.

About the SIGN series

The SIGN conference series provides a global platform for academics in topics such as theoretical and applied sign linguistics, Deaf community development, empowerment and education, and Deaf Studies, and is a "conference of sign language users". That is:

-         Presenters present either in the host country's sign language or in International Sign.

-         Interpreting (voiceover) for non-signers may also be available for part of the conference depending on local possibilities.

-         A pre-conference workshop on International Sign for participants is provided for each conference.

-         The conferences include a high percentage of interactive sessions, as well as lengthy breaks and longer presentation slots.

-         Abstracts are submitted either in writing or as a sign language video.

The SIGN series began in 2006 (initially called CLSLR) in Nijmegen, home of the first sign language typology research group. SIGN conferences have since been held at iSLanDS in Preston in 2008, in India in 2009, and in Turkey in 2011. The first conference attracted 50 participants, while SIGN5 in 2011 welcomed over 200 participants from more than 25 countries.

Issues for consideration

Timing: SIGN6 should take place around January/February 2013. SIGN7 should take place any time in 2014.

Organisation: For SIGN6, iSLanDS is able to set up an academic committee as for previous conferences. During SIGN6, an international committee will be established which will then look after the academic organisation of SIGN7. Hosts for SIGN6 and SIGN7 will form a local organising committee to work with the academic committee.

Support: iSLanDS can support the SIGN6 host by managing all abstract submission, selection, and programme planning activities. We can also organise the programme for the International Sign workshop, and manage admission for participants from outside the host country if needed. SIGN7 hosts will receive more comprehensive support and guidance for hosts under new arrangements to be agreed by the new SIGN committee.

Criteria: It is our aim to work with host institutions who will maintain the unique format and spirit of the SIGN conference series. If you are interested in hosting SIGN6, iSLanDS will discuss details with you asap. If you are interested in SIGN7, iSLanDS will start a dialogue with you, and the new committee will then discuss details with you after SIGN6.

Host organisations could be universities, NGOs, or other types of suitable organisations.

If you think that you may be interested in hosting SIGN6 or SIGN7, please express your interest in an informal email to Claire Perdomo at CLPerdomo1 at uclan.ac.uk<mailto:CLPerdomo1 at uclan.ac.uk> by SUNDAY 29 April, explaining the general rationale and feasibility of your institution being a host for SIGN6 or SIGN7.




Prof. Ulrike Zeshan
Director, International Institute for Sign Languages and Deaf Studies
University of Central Lancashire
Preston PR1 2HE
UK
Ph.: +44-1772-893104
Fax: +44-1772-894933
uzeshan at uclan.ac.uk

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