FAQs and Helpful Tips
To help you navigate this experience, we've provided answers to some frequently asked questions. That said, if you have any specific questions about RNF, we would be happy to answer them. (rnfchairs@gmail.com) We think we're a great introduction to CCCC and look forward to working with all the Work-in-Progress Presenters and Discussion Leaders!
Work-In-Progress Presentation FAQs
What's the overall tone/vibe of RNF?
We are a friendly group and the work-in-progress presentations (WiPPs) given are more informal than a panel presentation at CCCC.
How do the Work-in-Progress Presentation sessions run?
Do not plan to read a paper. First, you won't have time. The Works-in-Progress are small tables of 4-6 presenters with 2 or 3 discussion leaders. The time is divided equally among the presenters so you have about 8-10 minutes to present your research, including any questions you want answered on your project (what to read, with whom to talk, where to send for publication once finished, how "marketable" is this research, how to change a dissertation into a book or series of articles, etc.) Then you'll have about 8-10 minutes for the other participants to give you feedback.
What should I bring for the presentation?
First off, keep in mind, Works-in-Progress will be presented at small round tables in a big conference room. Projectors will not be provided and will not work in this venue.
Instead, you could prepare an easy to read handout with your name, contact information (email/phone/socials,etc.), a brief abstract of your project, and a list of your questions so that if someone thinks of something after your presentation, they can get the information to you later. (15 copies should be fine for the day, as we have a morning and an afternoon session so you'll present your WiPP twice to two different groups of people.) This also allows you to network (our middle name).
Discussion Leader FAQs
Who is appropriate to serve as a discussion leader?
Someone who:
Is a new or senior researcher in the field and possesses a terminal degree (PhD, MFA, or JD).
Conducts research in any of a variety of topic areas in the discipline.
Enjoys talking with others about research methodologies and topics.
Is available to participate during morning and/or afternoon sessions of the RNF.
What are the discussion leader’s responsibilities?
Along with one or two other discussion leaders:
Initiate dialogue among a group of 6-8 work-in-progress presenters (WiPPs).
Provide feedback and suggestions as well as monitor dialogue among participants.
Orchestrate discussion so as to provide an opportunity for all WiPPs to discuss their work.
When you submit your registration, you will be asked to provide a list of your scholarly areas so that you will not be asked to lead a discussion on a topic far outside of your areas of expertise.
What restrictions and/or benefits are there in participating as a discussion leader for RNF?
Discussion leaders and WiPPs may have another speaking role at CCCC; RNF participation does not count as a speaking role.
RNF participants are listed in the separate RNF program but not in the CCCC program (unless, of course, they have another role as presenter, session chair, or other).
RNF participants must register for the CCCC’s conference but do not pay an extra workshop fee (as do participants in other pre- and post-conference workshops).