Virtual HistSTM
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 300+ members on our mailing list. Our primary objective is to support members during this uncertain time.
While this group was founded by Sarah Qidwai, there are several collaborators that have contributed to its rapid growth. Currently, our advisory board members (Eddie Guimont, Daniella McCahey, Kelcy Gibbons and Megan Baumhammer) are planning for 2021.
Membership
You can sign up for our mailing list HERE.
Current Plans
We are in the process of planning for 2021. If you have any ideas or suggestions, do reach out to us!
Past Programming
During 2020, we were meeting weekly between April and July. We have since moved to a monthly model with fewer events.
Daniella McCahey was leading the Book Club and collaborated with many members (Eddie Guimont and Sarah Pickman) to put together some amazing sessions. Each week there were different collaborators leading a themed week. William Scates-Frances was coordinating the Australia/Asia Book Club and Karoliina Pulkkinen was leading the general check-in meet-up. Thank you to everyone for your contributions.
Past 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.
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
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.
Sarah Qidwai 