Monday 27 June, 10am-3pm, in-person (Birmingham & Midland Institute: directions)
What are the key critical questions scholars are currently grappling with in popular fiction studies? What are the connections between neurodiversity and popular fiction? Between disability studies and popular fiction? And what qualitative and quantitative research methods can popular fiction researchers use? This one-day event features a series of workshops, presentations, and discussion sessions showcasing the current expertise and interests of members of the Popular and Genre Fiction Network. Invited speakers include Professor Lisa Fletcher and Dr Briony Birdi. A sandwich lunch will be provided.
Provisional schedule:
10-10.15am – arrival and coffee
10.15-11.30am – qualitative and quantitative methods workshop with Briony Birdi (Sheffield) and Lisa Fletcher (Tasmania – via Zoom)
11.30-11.45am – break
11.45am-12.30pm – neurodivergence and popular fiction (led by Morgan Pope, MRes in English Literature)
12.30-1.15pm – lunch
1.15-2pm – disability studies and popular fiction (led by Kit Richards, PhD in English Literature)
2-2.15pm – break
2.15-3pm – planning for Network activities in 2022/23 (discussion open to all)