Turning points: Changes academics make to shape their working lives
In this global research project, we explored what it is like for academics who have been working in universities and other higher education settings over the last few years, and what kinds of changes they have made in their practices and approaches to their work.
Our project was based on addressing the following research questions
How do academics who work in a changing higher education environment articulate and represent
- the turning points that have caused them to change course and do something differently in their faculties, and
- the holding points, where the changes have taken hold?
We gathered data via an online survey during May – June 2024, where participants were asked to think about their experiences through the lens of text, imagery and music.
As this project evolves, we will post further information about what we found out along with various outputs.
Images of Academic Turning Points
As part of the study, we asked participants to think about and describe an image that represents their changed approach to their work. These descriptions were entered into an AI generator that converted the text to image; some examples of these generated images are shown below.
Playlist Collection
As part of the survey, we asked participants to think about and provide the name of a piece of music that represents their changed approach to their work. Based on their responses to the music question we have developed a suite of 7 playlists that audibly capture professional journeys across the globe.
Below is the first of these playlists. Watch this space for additional playlists which will be published over the coming months.
Academic Turning Points 1: Reframing Perspectives on Work-Life Balance
This playlist explores the profound need for balance, perspective and self-compassion amid academia's relentless demands. These tracks refer to introspection, slowing down, gaining clarity and better work-life balance. Listen on spotify.
Hear from lead researcher Mark Selkrig
Survey
The online survey for the project is now closed.
We would like to thank the many participants from around the globe who participated.
If you would like to know more about the project feel free to contact the lead researcher Associate Professor Mark Selkrig