A short summary of Tarry`s research:

I have always had a particular fascination with Russian history, specifically Tsarist Russia. In addition, I have always enjoyed working with textbooks which was developed during my Honours. It was in my Master's where I truly fell in love with textbook research. My Master's compared Russia's representation in Apartheid and post-Apartheid textbooks. The fascination with Russia and history textbooks continued into my PhD where I looked at the representation of BRICS countries in South African school history textbooks. The research focused on a neglected area of research in how allied partners represent their partners' history in the programmatic curriculum. Given South Africa's important status within the power bloc BRICS, it must be asked, what does the average citizen learn of our important global partners? One of my findings showed that Russia's history dwarfs that of its other political partners in South Africa's school history textbooks. What this suggests is that South Africa's perpetual focus on Russia's history aligns with the dominant hegemony and its historical ties to Russia (or the Soviet Union), especially during Apartheid. Furthermore, the reinforcement of Russian history further solidifies the authority of the current hegemony as Russia acts as a justifying agent for the current political party.

Research for Impact is one of the core strategic themes in SU`s Vision 2040. Can you describe the (potential) impact of your research?

My research not only contributes to the ever-growing history textbook research in South Africa but challenges how South Africa views its contemporary political partners. Textbook research is important in the Education field as textbooks are not neutral entities and thus it is important to see how South Africa views its politically allied countries, given the ideological implications of history and history textbook writing. What was noted was that textbook content remains largely unchanged as well as indicative of particular ideological beliefs. Furthermore, my findings also show the lack of female representation within history as the history remains primarily on strong male leadership. Strong male leadership is the core focus of the historical content, over and above the historical events. The historical events are written through the lens of the leaders. In order to create an inclusive South Africa, it is important to see representation within South Africa's history and its history textbooks. As textbooks are still a primary teaching tool in many schools, for many learners, their exposure to history and historical sources comes only from the textbook, thus the importance of representation.

In the ever-changing environment of academia, what are some of the obstacles early career researchers are faced with?

The most immediate challenge for me is the time. My current teaching load and subsequent marking load is very heavy and so it is difficult to find time to extend my research. Furthermore, I managed to complete my PhD whilst being a new mother, which brought on more obstacles, specifically as a researcher. I would love to be able to spend more time researching, however, teaching and marking take up too much time. I now have a teaching assistant which has helped with some of the workload.

What would you regard as the most important aspects to consider to effectively support early career researchers?

Support in how to go about looking for and applying for funding. More transparency in the type of support available to help with the teaching and marking load to free up time for research.

What excites you about your work? 

Textbook research. I am trying to publish more from my PhD but I am excited about my next research project involving textbook research.

When you're not in the lab, library or in the field conducting research, what do you do to unwind?

I have had to start developing hobbies from scratch after completing my PhD took away all time for hobbies. Time is still problematic but in order for me to unwind and focus on mental health, I go to the gym or go for walks with my husband, daughter and dog.

How has the ECAD programme of SU contributed to your research career? 

It has offered funding support for completing my PhD as well as providing the foundation for my first conference as I don't have any other travel funds available (because of the challenge as mentioned above). I am exceptionally grateful for the financial support that ECAD has offered over the years. Truly.

What advice, if any, would you look to impart to future early career academics? 

Find your research love. It is okay to move beyond that at times to explore other modes, but your passion will drive you when times are really hard and stressful. Thus doing research on what you love will see you through.
Also, ask for help. I am terrible at this. Ask for help.

Connect with Tarry and her work!

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tarryn-chanel-halsall-26883a136