Testimonials

"It is always inspiring to work with you because you show empathy but are firm with your comments and strategies to bring our thinking into sharper focus. I think we all start big and need to narrow down as we write to create meaning that is scholarly but also interesting to others. You bring this perspective out clearly in your facilitation of these writing workshops." Doctoral candidate, Sydney

"I think the writing group is a fantastic way of working. I really love the way you have worked with the group and it has certainly helped me lift productivity." Early career researcher, South Australia

"Your clear focus on writing for publication, in ways that are achievable and appropriate for staff and higher degree students, is already having a significant impact on the activity and general culture of our School. There is a real buzz following your work with us and excitement about the strategic writing-for-publication groups you are helping to establish." Professor, Research and Research Training Convenor, Newcastle

"Heartfelt thanks to Barbara for facilitating this writing group. In all my time at different universities, this initiative stands out as the one that attends to the pointy end of academic life, i.e. how to demystify the process of writing. I know for one that I approach the way I go about my writing in quite a different manner than before. And while there are moments where I still find the process of writing hard and difficult, I also feel more informed and aware of the various steps that need to be engaged with, due in no small part to what I have learned here." Mid-career researcher, Melbourne

"In 2007, when you came to Tasmania we spoke about my PhD and the troubles I was having bringing it to completion. My conversation with you had a profound impact and really put me back on track. After spending 12 months struggling, I suddenly spent the next two to three months writing in a different way. Hey presto! A thesis! I am absolutely delighted to let you know that my thesis has now been examined. I have made the minor editorial changes and received official notification last week that I will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Thank you for your time and your words of wisdom." Doctoral candidate, Tasmania

"Today we had our first writing group meeting since you worked with us last summer. Everyone who attended the summer programme was interested in participating. I just have to share my excitement about how well it worked and the positive feedback and fantastic insights people had. Their comments about the process were particularly interesting. None of them had ever seen a paper that was still in draft form, as most people only hand around published papers. They so enjoyed and valued the opportunity to have cross disciplinary input and several have now volunteered to present a paper for feedback at future sessions. What a great outcome!" Senior Lecturer, Department Head, Ireland