Tara Brabazon podcast

So much of higher education - and teaching and learning more generally - is based on assumptions. But what is the point of a PhD oral examination? What is its role for students and supervisors, and international universities?

The podcast explores the significance of using social media for research dissemination, covering topics like the best platforms, convincing arguments for researchers, challenges in information retrieval, evolution of media studies, practical applications of theoretical knowledge, and the positive impact of social media on academic connections and collaborations.

Sunny, Steve and Tara go into theory. They explore Stuart Hall's theorizing and how it frames Sunny's thesis. Tara goes hard on the current state of cultural studies (again). Steve and Sunny are patient with her.

Tara and Steve have a sad announcement for podcast listeners. Mick Winter - our remarkable PhD student - has died. Steve and Tara talk about 'what's next' and what will happen to his thesis now.

Amy Seymour-Walsh talks with Tara about her PhD and her innovative strategy to move from a series of ideas and incomplete chapters and to a full first PhD draft.

Tara and Steve discuss strategies for early article publication, transitioning from articles to theoretical papers, the impact of digitization on publishing speed, efficient referee selection, and integrating teaching and research in legal education.

Tara, Steve and Anne probe what it means when the word 'educator' is replaced by 'teacher'? Particularly, they probe the consequences of changing the language from 'early childhood educator' to 'early childhood teacher.'

Steve and Tara introduce Mark Brown's mock confirmation of candidature. They talk about the value of a mock event and how students can improve and learn through this process. The podcast also includes Mark's live and raw mock CoC and how - in real time - he created improvement.

The discussion dives into the intersection of academia and journalism, highlighting essential storytelling skills. Topics include how digital advancements are reshaping academic journalism and the challenges faced by early-career journalists, especially women. The importance of sharing research freely to build an academic brand is emphasized, along with the role of social media in democratizing ideas. Finally, the conversation touches on the removal of traditional gatekeepers in academic publishing, empowering scholars to reach wider audiences.

What are the reasons to choose to enrol in a research masters rather than a doctor of philosophy? Steve and Tara talk through the differences for students, supervisors and examiners and - once more - recognize the key skill of time management in supervision.