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Amsterdam Institute for Humanities Research (AIHR) AIHR

Popular Writing for Academics

With this workshop you will gain insight in the potential that popular writing offers to increase scholars’ visibility and to disseminate academic knowledge to a larger audience. We will discuss the possibilities of both online and print media, and participants will learn how to write captivatingly about their research.

Course description

Insights from PhD projects are also of interest to audiences beyond the circle of academics. Many scholars actively strike up and participate in societal debates, adding unique and informed perspectives to public discussions. Possibilities are endless: contributing to op-ed sections of newspapers, authoring popular scientific books or by-passing conventional gatekeepers altogether via your own (group) blog. All hold the potential of reaching vast audiences. But how does this work? How can you translate your research into attractive and engaging writing? And who constitutes your audience? Who should benefit from your work and what is the best way to reach them? Additionally, the course will address issues such as responsibility, striking a balance between your personal and professional online profile, copyright, and engaging in debate.

Course dates & Registration
  • Course dates Academic Year 2024-2025

    The next round of this course is in academic year 2024-2025. The course dates will be published on the website at the start of the new academic year. You will be informed through your local research school when registration opens.


     

Attendance & assignments

After the first session participants will be asked to write two blogposts about their research. Using the feedback and tips provided in session 2, participants improve these blogposts for the final session. Participants are also expected to prepare for each session by reading the assigned literature.

Lecturer

Dr Linda Duits, independent scholar. Columnist for Folia, frequent op-ed contributor (.e.g. Het Parool, NRC Handelsblad), daily blogger. See http://lindaduits.nl

  • Class themes

    Day 1:

    • Mixing science and opinion; epistemological considerations;
    • Types of popular writing; differences between outlets;
    • Example of work routine;
       

    Day 2:

    • Translating science into understandable language;
    • Attractive writing; structure and style;
    • Feedback on homework.

    Day 3:

    • Contacting editors; dealing with feedback (both professional and laymen);
    • Possible goals and pitfalls;
      Using social media to become an even better academic.