CHASE Induction Event

Tuesday 29 October | 11.00-17.00
The Courtauld Institute of Art, Vernon Square Penton Rise, London WC1X 9EW (Google map)

CHASE Workshops - various dates

Doctoral Illumination: Setting goals that are motivating and achievable
Fri 22 Nov 10.00-13.00 | In person

Completing a PhD is one of the biggest intellectual goals anyone can have set for themselves. However, goals this big need breaking down into more manageable targets that stimulate and keep momentum throughout the research process. 
 
Setting achievable goals (and then achieving them) is an important part of self-management and accountability, feeding the important need for self-belief throughout the doctoral journey where ‘imposter’ syndrome can be rife. 
 
By setting goals within a framework where motivation is clear, and by using reflective practice, the process of goal setting and working towards goals becomes a rewarding rather than a frustrating process. 

Crafting your literature review
Tues 12 Nov, 10.00-12.50 | Online OR
Mon 18 Nov 13.00-15.50 | Online

You’ll have absorbed a huge amount of material around your research topic – and now you need to review this literature in a way that’s accessible, persuasive, and justifies your own contribution to the field. But when do you stop reading and start writing? What do you do when you’re feeling overwhelmed by all your notes? And how do you make your own voice heard among the voices of so many other scholars? 

In this half-day workshop we’ll explore practical ways to find and file source material and then extract the information you need in the most efficient way. You’ll also practice stepping back from your notes to shape a strong narrative that tells the ‘story so far’ in a clear and compelling way, thereby setting the stage for your own contribution.

Half day online workshop (two Zoom sessions in a single morning, with an extended break between them to allow for a practical session when students participate in pair work and/or set exercises)

Tools for handling perfectionism and imposter phenomenon 
Wed 20 November, 13.00-16.00 | Online

Perfectionism is the act of setting such unreasonably high standards that you find yourself unable to reach them. Perfectionism is the enemy of ‘done’ because no matter how hard you work, the satisfying feeling of ‘good enough’ somehow eludes you. Perfectionist tendencies can cause you to delay starting or finishing work, especially when the task is complex or cognitively demanding.
Imposter phenomenon describes the sensation of thinking of yourself as a fraud, and discounting (or dismissing) evidence to the contrary. It is often coupled with an intense fear of being 'found out' and a reduced capacity to take real ownership of your achievements - perhaps leading you to attributing your successes to luck or situational factors.
Perfectionist behaviours and imposter feelings reduce our self-belief and cause us to sometimes get in the way of our own success. Experiencing either (or both) may mean you put yourself under more pressure to achieve, whilst at the same time experiencing increased stress; declining productivity; and undermining your confidence.
This workshop will introduce you to an array of techniques that help you minimise, address, and (with practice) overcome the unhelpful thinking patterns that underpin perfectionist behaviours and imposter feelings, increasing your capacity to effectively handle these issues as they arise in the future.
This workshop is highly interactive, rather than a presentation, so you are expected to be present in every sense, which means email and distractions off, camera on, and be prepared to take part in activities, plenaries, and small group discussions in breakout rooms. As a result, the programme isn't suitable for those seeking a solo or self-paced learning experience.

Staying well during your Ph.D 
Wed 27 November, 10.00-13.00 | Online

There is no doubt that a PhD is a major undertaking requiring dedication, focus, significant self-motivation and personal investment of time and energy. Whilst often a very rewarding experience, doctoral students also report that, at times, the demands of doctoral study can also invoke difficult feelings of stress, anxiety, exhaustion and isolation.  
 
In this interactive workshop we will explore ways to proactively support your balance and your wellbeing during your PhD. We will consider what contributes to good wellbeing, explore common triggers for work related stress and anxiety, and identify practical strategies to proactively support your wellbeing. By the end of the workshop you will have considered a range of practices, approaches and services that can help you in maintaining your health and wellbeing during your doctoral studies. Additionally, you will have an increased awareness of the practical steps you can take to facilitate a positive, healthy and rewarding PhD experience. 

This session is interactive and participatory. Please ensure you are in a quiet space and are prepared to take part in discussions and activities.