APPENDIX A: 2023 MA PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP & SEMINAR SERIES SCHEDULE (SEM. 1)

INTRODUCTION to Research at Wits Digital Arts with Supervisors & in Process MA’s and Research Groups

27 FEBRUARY 2023 4pm - 6pm

Digital Arts Dept.

- Quick overviews on Research Being conducted in the Dept. by in Process MA Students & Supervisory Staff

An introduction to Proposal development expectations and short initial expressions of interest.

- Follow this session by sending your initial expressions of interest to Dr. Bristow by end of Wednesday 1st March on ULWAZI

WORKSHOP 1: THE PROPOSAL & RESEARCH QUESTION

6 MARCH 2023 4pm - 6pm

Digital Arts Dept.

- Start with Supervisor Allocation Announcements

Time to lay the groundwork for the daunting, difficult and hugely important proposal. If you get it right, it will help the whole research process.

- Research questions to be submitted for discussion and unpacking in the next session.

WORKSHOP 2: AIM & RATIONALE 20 MARCH 2023 4pm - 6pm Digital Arts Dept.

After getting your research question down, exploring why you are pursuing that question and where it fits in the bigger picture is a crucial part of your contribution.

- Draft Aim and Rationale and submitted for review in the next session.

WORKSHOP 3: THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS & LIT REVIEWS.

3 APRIL 2023 4pm - 6pm

Digital Arts Dept.

CHECK IN SESSION: LIT REVIEW & THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKQUESTIONS / DEVELOPMENT, ETC.

17 APRIL 2023 4pm - 6pm

Digital Arts Dept.

WORKSHOP 4: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

24 APRIL 2023 4pm - 6pm

Digital Arts Dept.

- The nitty gritty of theory and literary resources. Getting stuck in here will help you not only structure and think through your argument, but also defend them.

A check in with the whole MA cohort post the research break. Exploring the Lit Review & Theoretical Framework - answering questions, solving structural problems & peer to peer literature support.

The way you conduct your research is important. The methodology section of your proposal is where this is outlined and described. Session led by Dr. Duncan from IACS

WORKSHOP 5: PRACTISE WORK EXPECTATIONS

8 MAY 2023 4pm - 6pm

Digital Arts Dept.

If your research includes a practice component, it is important to understand what the examinable expectations are for it and how it should relate to your written contribution. A section of your proposal will need to address the practice component of your research.

SHUT UP & WRITE GROUP READINGS (VARIOUS)

VARIOUS TBC We will be running various reading and writing groups during this time. They will be less compulsory than the workshops, but you are encouraged to participate as much as you can. The MA is a lonely process and the more help you have from your peers the better!