Introduction to Humanities Data [seminar]

This event serves as a foundational step in integrating DH by introducing students and faculty to basic concepts of data handling and analysis relevant to humanities research. It sets the stage for understanding the potential of digital tools in research and teaching. It also outlines the different types of data and how they are typically used in DH research.

 

Work, AI, and the Workplace [Workshop]

Purpose

The Strada Institute of Work (2019) highlights the enduring value of humanities graduates: "The skills liberal arts graduates learned in their programs will continue to serve them well. For when it comes to the future of work, there will be a need for more learners who know how to think on their toes—who can problem solve in the most uncertain and ambiguous of situations. As technologies or entire jobs become obsolete, workers who can adapt and learn how to solve new problems in the market will thrive."

 

In light of the rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workplace and the future of work, Mandela University’s Digital Humanities Hub will host an event on the theme, “The Future of Work in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” This event will explore the intersection of work, AI, and the humanities by featuring three graduates or professionals from humanities fields who are at the forefront of AI innovation.

 

The programme will feature three speakers/panellists from the three schools within the humanities faculty: GSS, VAPA, and LMC.

 

Event Goals

Inspiration: Encourage students to rethink their approach to the evolving work environment.

Engagement: Foster critical discussions among students and staff on the theme of work, AI, and the humanities.

 

Event Format

Audience: Academics, students from the humanities disciplines, and the broader university community.

Duration: The programme will be approximately 100 minutes, scheduled over lunch.

 

Speakers' Brief

Speakers will prepare a 15-minute presentation followed by a discussion. They will address the following points:

 

How their humanities degree shaped their current work and how their education prepared them for the workforce.

The technologies they are currently using.

Advice for academics, lecturers, and students regarding AI and the humanities.

The impact of AI on their work.

 

Data Cleaning and Version Control [Tutorial]

Participants in this tutorial will be provided with data that they can clean using digital methods. Although quite scholarly in the approach which focuses on reusability, the tutorial session will provide practical training. This session is essential as data cleaning ensures accuracy and reliability in research datasets, while version control using platforms promotes collaborative and structured research practices, enhancing reproducibility and transparency.

 

Data Visualisation for Humanities [Tutorial]

This event focuses on enhancing data literacy among humanities scholars, teaching them to effectively communicate insights through visual means. It promotes engagement with complex data sets and facilitates clearer interpretation of research findings. Note that the topic of visualisation is too broad to be effectively covered in a one-hour session. As such, this tutorial will very basic with further training planned for the year 2025.

 

Publishing a Data Article [seminar with JOHD]

As scholars, it is imperative for us to disseminate our research findings through publications. This seminar aims to provide participants with practical guidance on publishing data articles. We are privileged to host an editor from the Journal of Open Humanities Data, who will explain the concept of data articles and the types of data suitable for publication. While this may seem ambitious at our initial stages, it sets a clear goal for the Faculty to strive towards. This seminar will enable participants to appreciate the seminars and tutorials that focus on deepening their understanding of data and data-cleaning processes.

 

Digital Exhibition

Generally, digital exhibitions showcase innovative uses of DH in presenting and preserving cultural and historical artefacts. Open exhibitions also engage the public, demonstrating the impact of DH in broader societal contexts while also improving the public’s appreciation for digitalisation. This exhibition will allow faculty members to experience the organisation of a digital exhibition, thereby skilling themselves for both current and future projects that rely on the virtual experience.