Virtual writing groups for people working on their dissertation in philosophy will be forming soon.

Once again, Joshua Smart (Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville) is organizing them. He writes in with the following information:

What it is: Virtual Dissertation Groups is a free service for those currently working on their doctoral dissertations in philosophy departments. Since 2014, VDG has connected students from over 30 countries to provide peer feedback on dissertation work with a minimal time commitment.

How it works: Each dissertator is placed in a group of three on the basis of a short survey about their project/area of work. Toward the end of each month, Feb. – Apr., one member will send some work (3k – 6k words) to the other two, who then return feedback in a week or so. (Usually these are written comments, though some groups elect to do video discussions.)

Why it’s good: While advisors and committees are important, it can be incredibly helpful to discuss one’s work with peers in a lower-stakes environment, and particularly enlightening to do so with those who take a different approach, outlook, or focus. Not only that, but there is evidence from psychological research that even just thinking about problems in relation to persons who are geographically distant can promote creative insights. With students at a variety of programs and from many states, countries, and every continent (well, except Antarctica), Virtual Dissertation Groups is a great way to capture some of these benefits!

How to Join: To sign up, just fill out the short survey at www.jasmartphilosophy.com/virtual-dissertation-groups. Sign ups are open through February 6th (and conditional on availability for a week or so after). Hope to see you there!