Led by Dr Kiril Sharapov
The session will consist of three parts. In Part 1, we will examine the ethical challenges and moral dilemmas involved in overseas fieldwork. These challenges range from researching sensitive topics, working in dangerous places, conducting research in a foreign language, and collaborating with overseas research assistants, to more fundamental issues such as using decolonial theory to question our knowledge production practices. We will also explore the ethical dimensions of our own identity in the ‘foreign’ field and the responsibility of ‘giving back’ to our overseas research participants.
In Part 2, we will discuss practical aspects, including pre-field requirements, protocols, and navigating university risk assessment processes. We will also cover pre-departure preparations, logistics, safety and security, and other related challenges. During the first two parts, we will play pre-recorded interviews with colleagues who have recently completed their PhDs and whose research involved overseas fieldwork to reflect on the specific challenges they faced and how they managed to overcome them.
In Part 3, you will work in small groups to discuss your own plans for overseas fieldwork. You will alternate between the roles of a researcher facing numerous practical and ethical dilemmas while preparing for your time away and a ‘devil’s advocate’ asking challenging questions such as ‘What if…?’ and ‘Have you…?’ to encourage critical and reflective thinking about your own research.
Register for Summer School here!