DRN bridges cowriting workshops in Philadelphia

November 6, 2023 - Deborah J. Johnson

Across higher ed, cowriting has become a popular and expanding approach for enhancing support and productivity in academic writing. The Diversity Research Network, or DRN, has offered such venues for eight years. On Oct. 12, 2023, DRN collaborated with Temple University, the University of Pennsylvania and the Society for the Study of Human Development ahead of a professional conference to provide a one-day writer’s workshop in Philadelphia. Drs. Deborah Johnson from MSU and Yoko Yamamoto from Brown University cohosted and led the session. There were 21 registrants representing faculty, postdocs and graduate students. Among registrants, more than 16 universities and colleges were represented.

Participants experienced intermittent writing and inspired sessions from national experts throughout the days. Accountability partners were established, and consultations were available. Participants enjoyed bridging new professional relations, learning how to be more effective in their writing and discussing the unique writing contexts for scholars with diverse experiences. Breakfast and lunch were provided to attendees.

By all accounts, the session was successful. The overall experience was rated exceptional at 80%, with the remainder very good. Participants rated the session as helpful with 100% as exceptional or very good. In addition, the session exceeded the expectations of 82% of participants. Speakers also received an average mean of 4.75 out of 5, with two speakers rated 5 in their presentation. 

Participants found the networking, structure, space and time to write, relational approach and interactions so beneficial, that they wanted more time for writing and a longer two-day session.

"[I felt] included in such an esteemed community. I really appreciated the discussions and the dedicated writing time, and the structure of the day helped me understand how I can maximize my time without burning out,” wrote one participant.