11. PhDForum: An online quiet study room providing a public space that nurtures the personal experience of being part of a global community
- Donna Peach (author)
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| Title | 11. PhDForum |
|---|---|
| Subtitle | An online quiet study room providing a public space that nurtures the personal experience of being part of a global community |
| Contributor | Donna Peach (author) |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.11647/obp.0462.11 |
| Landing page | https://www.openbookpublishers.com/books/10.11647/obp.0462/chapters/10.11647/obp.0462.11 |
| License | https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ |
| Copyright | Donna Peach; |
| Publisher | Open Book Publishers |
| Published on | 2025-07-02 |
| Long abstract | This chapter explores the significance of collaborative power dynamics in academia, emphasising the alignment of words and actions to foster genuine solidarity within the neo-liberal educational landscape. It advocates for creating spaces, particular for students—in this case PhD students—that nurture collective support and challenge the competitive, individualistic norms prevalent in Higher Education. The chapter critically reflects on the ethical implications of research practices, including respecting the right not to be researched, and highlights the need to prioritise agency and autonomy. By acknowledging the strength of relationships and resisting narratives of doubt, this work calls for a more compassionate and equitable academic culture that values trust, reciprocity, and shared growth—for hope. |
| Page range | pp. 135–140 |
| Print length | 6 pages |
| Language | English (Original) |
Donna Peach
(author)Like many, Donna Peach was born into poverty and disadvantage, where attending school was not considered a priority and educational ambitions were low. Donna was forty-four before she was awarded a degree after six years of distance learning study. More than a decade later, she has a self-funded MSc and a PhD, and has taught at the University of Salford since 2013. Thus, she recognises both personally and professionally the transformational power of education and the vitality of widening and empowering participation. She is passionate about reducing barriers to education—that activity must include the appreciation of learning in all its guises and not just those that are recognised by hierarchical measures. Her practice is based on nurturing our shared humanity as a way to dissipate manufactured constructions of power. On that basis, she started online activities that have blossomed into the PhDForum. This wonderful global community has a constant online presence and makes a difference in people’s “real lives”. It requires a daily commitment that Donna shares with others and brings an abundance of joy and support that ripples beyond its virtual boundaries.
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