August 7 to 10 2025
Researching and Applying Metaphor 17
at Lawrence Technological University
Southfield, MI, USA
Welcome!
Welcome to RaAM17, hosted at Lawrence Technological University in Michigan, USA! Join us for this historic event, as it will be the first-ever RaAM conference held in North America. On this website, you will find important information regarding the conference theme, plenary speakers, pre-conferences workshops, the call for papers/submission portal, and information about accommodations.
Visit this website regularly for updates, in addition to the RaAM Facebook and X pages.
For any direct questions, please contact the head conference organizer Hamad Al-Azary
Please join us to make this a historic RaAM event!
Conference Theme: Metaphor, Technology, and Communication
The study of metaphor is bidirectionally connected to technology. In one direction, metaphor actively shapes our conceptualization of emerging technologies, such as in communicating and thinking about novel technologies and scientific advances (e.g., "artificial intelligence", "information highway", "the brain is a computer" etc). In the other direction, emerging technologies can actively contribute to the study of metaphor, from using big data to build computational models of metaphor, to technology providing new means of metaphoric expression, such as in social media and memes. This RaAM conference theme of Metaphor and Technology encompasses the multiple ways metaphor and technology, broadly defined, interact. We are particularly interested in papers and posters that are related to this broad theme, but welcome all submissions that fit the general RaAM areas of study, including metaphor and:
Artificial Intelligence and/or computational modelling
Technological conceptualization and innovation
Big data
Scientific and technological communication
Embodiment and metaphor in humans vs machines
STEM Education
Expressing metaphor through technological tools (emojis, memes, tweets)
Other topics
Abstracts can be submitted through the submission portal until Dec 15, 2024
Plenary Speakers
Pre-Conference Workshops
Pre-Conference Workshops are Planned for August 6, 2025
Introduction to Text-Mining - Paula Lauren, Associate Professor of Computer Science, Lawrence Technological University
Statistics with R - Bodo Winter, Professor of Linguistics, University of Birmingham
Getting to LTU
Lawrence Technological University
21000 W 10 Mile Rd
Southfield, MI, USA
48075
Southfield, MI, USA
48075
Nearest International Airport: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).
For those flying in, Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is about 30 minutes away by car. Several ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft are available for transport to the university, in addition to local taxis.
Suggested Accommodations
Comfort Suites Hotel - This hotel is adjacent to LTU and has a special conference rate ($120 per night + tax) which includes free hot breakfast, complimentary WIFI, and access to a pool and jacuzzi. Click here to book with conference rate. There is a limited number of rooms with this rate, so it is at a first-come, first-served basis.
Other Nearby Hotels
Westin Hotel: 5-10 minute walk
Courtyard Detroit Southfield: 15-20 minute walk
Detroit Marriot Southfield:15-20 minute walk
Staying in Downtown Detroit
Attendees may prefer to stay downtown nearby more attractions. In that case, LTU is about 20 minutes away by car (e.g., Uber, Lyft, cab, etc.).
Nearby Attractions
As you gear up for RaAM at LTU, take some time to explore the vibrant attractions of Metro Detroit. Discover cultural highlights like the Detroit Institute of Arts, renowned for its impressive collection, and the iconic Motown Museum, where you can relive the sounds that defined a generation. Enjoy world-class performances at the Detroit Opera House and the Fox Theatre. For outdoor activities, stroll along the scenic Detroit Riverfront (the #1 riverwalk in the US) or relax in Belle Isle Park, which offers trails and stunning skyline views. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from classic Coney Island hot dogs to gourmet dining in neighborhoods like Greektown and Corktown. Sports enthusiasts can cheer on local teams such as the Tigers (MLB), Lions (NFL), and Red Wings (NHL) for an exciting game day experience. Lastly, delve into the area's rich history at the Henry Ford Museum, celebrating American innovation, and the Charles H. Wright Museum, which provides insights into the civil rights movement. Metro Detroit promises a unique blend of experiences to enhance your visit.