Virtual HistSTM Community

The Virtual HistSTM Community

About

The Virtual HistSTM Community is a digital community for historians of science, technology and medicine. This group was created after it became clear that some academics/graduate students/ECRs were interested in forming a digital community because of the COVID-19 disruptions. We’re a new group and still formulating our agenda. There are currently 150+ members on our mailing list. Our primary objective is to support members during this uncertain time.

Origins

While this group was founded by Sarah Qidwai, there are several collaborators that have contributed to its rapid growth. We have a steering committee that meets weekly to discuss plans for the following week. Daniella McCahey leads the Book Club and has collaborated with many members (Eddie Guimont and Sarah Pickman) to put together some amazing sessions. Daniella, Eddie and Megan Baumhammer have taken an active role in the steering committee. Each week there are different collaborators leading a themed week. There are a few set sessions every week including a book club and writing check-in. Different members have taken to leading each session. William Scates-Frances is coordinating the Australia/Asia Book Club and Karoliina Pulkkinen is leading the general check-in meet-up. Thank you to everyone for your contributions. 

Weekly Events

Book Club meetings: We have two weekly meetings for the book club. The first one is for our members in Australia and Asia. The second book club is the original book club and is organized by Daniella McCahey

General Check-in: Based on who shows up, we discuss writing goals, readings, and other things as they arise.

Past Events

 Crafts and Coordinating Digital Conferences with Jemma Houghton

Alt-ac Advice with Erin Bartram

Telling Islamic Time with Mariam Sabri

Podcasts and Publications with Michael F. Robinson

Membership

There are two levels for members: General Members and Active Members.

General Members: those who would like to remain on the list and get notifications about our events. New members can sign up HERE.

Active Members: Those who would like to be more involved with the community, lead sessions and share resources. Existing members can sign up HERE

FAQ

Who can join the community?

Anyone interested in discussing topics in History of Science, Technology and Medicine. We are trying to make this group as accessible as possible.

Who is the intended audience for this? 

We have members from all stages of academia (MA students to Professors). The audience is primarily historians of science from a wide range of backgrounds. We try and make sessions as accessible to a general academic audience as possible. 

How many people typically participate? 

For special sessions, we typically have anywhere from 5-15 members attend each session.

What if I am interested in leading a session?

Get in touch with one of the steering committee members and we can figure out where to fit you in.