Exploring the Impact of the HERDSA Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) Special Interest Group (SIG): Strengthening Identity and Engagement

Focus: Highlighting the multifaceted role and effectiveness of the HERDSA Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) Special Interest Group (SIG) through its contributions to research dissemination, professional development, and fostering a sense of belonging.

Background: Initially conceived as a platform for inquiry, dialogue, and collaboration on the status and potential of HASS education in Australian tertiary settings in 2023, the HERDSA HASS SIG evolved into a vibrant international network. Like others in the higher education (HE) space, it provided a critical space for academics and students to share their experiences, research, and professional challenges. Amid the changing dynamics of HE policy often privileging STEM over HASS (e.g., Marginson, 2021) the SIG strengthens disciplinary identity and amplifies HASS voices and roles in HE.

Description: This presentation shares the experiences of 7 HASS SIG members by exploring the knowledge exchange that occurred during member-led presentations and storytelling.

Method: Using a collaborative autoethnographic approach, this study examines the narratives, assessing their impact on engagement, motivation, and professional identity formation within the SIG. Data were generated and analysed using reflective prompting, group discussions, refinement and group-based theme development (Pretorius, 2022).

Evidence: Through their stories, the participants demonstrated that the SIG fostered a space of empowerment. By offering a platform to narrate professional journeys and intellectual contributions, the participants were able to better articulate their academic identities. This fostered a sense of agency, allowing them to see their experiences as opportunities to advocate for change in higher education. This process also built a sense of community with other scholars in the discipline.

Contribution: This study underscores the critical role of SIGs in supporting and strengthening the work of HASS academics and students, reinforcing the importance of community-driven initiatives in higher education.

Engagement: What did you value most from your experience with SIGs? Future expectations from SIGs.