What it is: VDG is a free service for those working on their doctoral dissertations in philosophy. Since 2014, VDG has connected hundreds of philosophy doctoral students from over 39 countries and every continent* to provide peer feedback on dissertation work with a minimal time commitment.
[* At least, every continent with a philosophy Ph.D. program… sorry Antarctica.]
How it works: In mid-May, dissertators are organized into groups of three, based on information provided about their project/area of work. Once a month for June-August, one of the members takes a turn sending work from their dissertation (3k–6k words) to the other two for feedback. (Feedback is typically in the form of written comments, though some groups choose to have video discussions.)
Why it’s good: While advisors and committees are important, it can be incredibly helpful to discuss one’s work with peers in a lower-stakes environment, and it can be particularly enlightening to do so with those who take a different approach, outlook, or focus. (There is even some evidence from psychology that thinking about problems in relation to geographically distant persons can promote creative insights.) With students in a wide range of programs from all over the globe, Virtual Dissertation Groups is a great way to capture some of these benefits!
Sound good? Then sign up below!