This student-led workshop has been designed to teach students strategies on how to develop resilience and a critical consciousness during the challenging process of completing a PhD. The strategies covered in the workshop are informed by postcolonial and feminist theory, Freirian pedagogy, and the methodology of Augosto Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed. No prior knowledge is required to attend, although you will need access to Zoom.
Some of the specific topics that will be covered include how to: practice pro-active selfcare; recognise and manage the symptoms of burn-out; and protect one’s mental health. Concepts such as tang ping (“lying flat” – a Chinese counterculture movement promoting a more relaxed approach to the workplace) and interactive exercises from Boal’s Rainbow of Desire will also teach attendees to recognise structures of oppression and break unsupportive patterns and ways of thinking. By the end of the workshop, attendees should feel empowered and capable of positively transforming their PhD experience.
This two-part event will take place on Wednesday 27 October and Friday 29 October from 11:00 to 15:00 (with a 30-minute recess from 13:00 to 13:30).
This event is open to PhD students from all social science backgrounds who are interested in a theory-based approach to building resilience during the process of completing their PhDs. Masters students who intend to pursue a PhD in future would also benefit from attending this workshop.