Call for papers

It is our great pleasure to invite you to the first international Klaara Conference, focusing on easy-to-read (EtR) language research, to be held in Helsinki, Finland from 19th to 20th September 2019.

The aim of this multidisciplinary conference is to function as a venue for researchers interested in the study of EtR languages and accessible communication. The conference especially aims to advance research which uses linguistic research methods to investigate modified language used for communication with people who have various difficulties in understanding standard forms of language. Studies on other perspectives of EtR and accessible communication, e.g. social sciences or special education, are also welcome.

The need for EtR research grows out of both practical and theoretical considerations: On the practical side, changes in society increase the demand for research-based standards, practices, and applications. For example, migration, aging population and increased pressure for personal autonomy (UN convention on the rights of persons with disabilities) intensify the need for clear communication. On the theoretical side, the current EtR language practices provide interest as research objects: what kind of linguistic concepts are EtR languages actually, and how is EtR linked to other important concepts such as participation, communication, and access to information?

We welcome section papers, posters and workshops. While we hope that the section papers and posters be based on completed or in progress research, we encourage workshops aiming to connect people with new themes or provisional ideas. Abstract submission is now open here.

Important dates:

  • Abstract submission deadline: March 15, 2019
  • Notification of acceptance: May 15, 2019
  • Registration closes: August 15, 2019

Confirmed plenary speakers:

  • Christiane Maass, Universität Hildesheim, Germany
  • Cliff Goddard, Griffith University, Australia

We hope that exciting research topics and colleagues working with various aspects of EtR would intrigue you, too.

Welcome to Klaara 2019 in Helsinki!