Summary
In a talk presented at a conference addressing the challenges and aspirations of the research community, the speaker shares personal experiences with COVID-19, stressing the seriousness of the ongoing pandemic while expressing gratitude for being part of a gathering working towards human-centered insights. The speaker introduces a day filled with discussions from various experts, including Professor Devon Powers on trend analysis, Sam Ladner on ethno futures, and others addressing resilience in research teams and participatory research justice. The overarching theme promotes the idea of using research to envision better futures proactively, while also reminding the audience of the need for critical self-reflection on personal contributions to the field. The program aims to foster new insights and solutions to navigate systemic challenges collectively.
Key Insights
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COVID-19 has impacted many lives, underscoring the need for resilience in our communities.
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The conference aims to advance the research field in meaningful ways, not just celebrate past successes.
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There is a need to design futures that center around human insights and needs.
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Learning from futurists can help researchers shape immediate and relevant futures.
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Resilience is a critical factor for research teams, especially in uncertain times.
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Participatory research and decolonization are vital to ensuring equitable research practices.
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Self-reflection is essential; individuals should assess their impact on societal dynamics.
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Gatekeeping in research can hinder progress, but learning frameworks can improve effectiveness.
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Engaging with diverse perspectives can enhance research outcomes and insights.
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Today's discussions will be a catalyst for prompting long-term change in the research community.
Notable Quotes
"I feel like probably the luckiest person here."
"Zero stars would not recommend [having COVID]."
"We're here, not in denial of plague and war. But in defiance of it."
"Today's theme is advancing our field."
"The main reason that I feel lucky today is that I get to introduce today's speakers."
"We need to better understand the role of resilience."
"We're coming together to advance a profession and a function that works to center human insights."
"I challenge all of us to pull back from the desire for self congratulations."
"What am I personally doing to contribute to the dynamics that stand in the way of imagining better futures for everyone."
"This conference is about advancing research as a practice, as a profession, as a field."
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