In the last two Friday research calls we’ve been coming together to reflect on what would make for a wise next step with regard to the structure and organisation of these weekly meetings, and I wanted to share the results of this reflection.
For context these reflections build on previous ideas on the nature of the research group, which includes the goal of producing research content - whether in the form of academic papers, more informal writings or recordings of weekly sessions - around the concept of a Second Renaissance.
Some things we coalesced around include:
- A rota system whereby those who wish to take part act as hosts for the session every X weeks.
As before, during your weekly slot you can choose the structure and content - whether that’s a presentation of research-in-progress, hosting an exploratory practice, or even inviting a guest speaker to interview or present in your place.
The purpose of this is to make for a clearer sense of co-ownership, shared commitment and direction of the group. A number of people said that what they’re looking for in a research group such as this is a place to share and discuss research ideas that also offers a sense of community and opportunities for collaborative work. A commitment to regular participation and hosting helps serve this goal.
- Continued guest speakers, but with a more participatory form.
Guest speakers are important as an injection of new ideas, a way of engaging with the wider Second Renaissance ecosystem, and a way of producing research content in the form of recordings. At the same time we want to bring a greater level of group participation into both the structure of the sessions - e.g. more time for open dialogue and discussion - and the selection of speakers - e.g. greater opportunities for all research group members to select and invite speakers.
- Collective integration with Oasis calls
At the monthly ‘research tent’ sessions in the Oasis calls, we’ll weave the results of research explorations into the Oasis community with practices or presentations around findings from coherent tracks of research. We’re planning to start on this at next Tuesday’s call when @JonahW and @Naeema will host a practice around AI and wisdom - a sustained theme in recent research calls.
How to get involved
A reminder if you’re not yet part of the group but would like to get more involved, the first step is usually just to attend one of our calls. They’re often advertised here on the forum and on the life itself whatsapp group, but there’s also a standing link in the community calendar.
You’re also welcome to schedule a call with me (you can DM me here on the forum) to discuss any questions you might have.
After you attend one of these you can join our dedicated whatsapp channel to be more in the loop on what’s happening each week, and sign up to be part of the research rota.