Applications under any of the following themes, which respond directly to either of the focus areas as listed below, are solicited for submission:
Abstract submissions should be 150 - 200 words in length.
We invite proposals for in-person or virtual presentations in the following formats: paper presentation, virtual posters, focused webinars, creative practice showcase, or virtual lightning talk.
The value of indigenous knowledge and its relevance in Sub-Sahara Africa and in a global context are questioned in general and during turbulent times. We urge arts educators to participate with a spirit of wensa, Zulu for - just do it - in any one of the following areas:
Leadership development and employability of youth and the elderly
Leadership theory is well developed, but does it accommodate the depth required in an ever increasing complexity of social dynamics in the 21st century? Marginalised individuals should be given every opportunity to reach self-actualisation and cement their identities in leadership positions in society. What type of indigenous knowledge do we need in the arts that could empower individuals to become and remain responsible decision-makers and change agents? What professional frameworks do we offer through arts education to promote youth leadership and consider future retirees as knowledge bearers of our cultures? How can we foster hope through the arts and stay engaged with our communities in times of disruption and social distancing?
Innovative & entrepreneurial skills development
The 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) is already upon us; what emerging technologies will quantum leap countries’ industries into the future? Rwanda has set an inspiring example by using 3-D designed drones to deliver medicines to rural areas; Nigeria produced indigenous textile designs contributing to the economic industry. South Africa boasts high quality arts festivals in different regions yearly, increasing tourism. How can 4IR arts-based technologies be used to change industry processes and systems and foster innovative educational and entrepreneurial skills? What are the opportunities of embracing indigenous knowledge systems into mainstream technologies? How do we align our arts curriculum with innovative aesthetics and or digital demands to create job opportunities in the arts industry? How do we adjust 4IR opportunities to bridge the digital divide and sustain developmental ideals?
Inclusivity, equality, wellbeing and community
Although notions of inclusivity, equality and wellbeing have received significant attention in both research and media, many marginalised groups are still not truly integrated into their communities. How can arts-based practices contribute towards heightening the awareness of the ways in which marginalised individuals can contribute to their communities? What new insights can be gained from past, isolated experiences? How can arts-based approaches be reinvented to improve mental and emotional health promoting wellbeing, inclusivity and equality?
Environmental awareness and heritage preservation
On 4 December 2018 Greta Thunberg, age 16, spoke at a United Nations climate change summit, sparking much controversy, amongst others she spoke of protecting the future of our planet for next generations. We saw animals re-appearing during lockdown in city streets. In light of climate change and past global isolation how can the arts engage with issues around renewable energy technologies to promote sustainable living conditions on the planet? How do we connect indigenous knowledge systems and environmental issues through the arts? What arts educational methodologies do we apply to promote awareness and develop longevity in our countries to preserve our earth? In times of disruption and change how do we elevate and preserve local and regional heritage through the arts to formally achieve asset status for surrounding communities when assessing “Asset Based Community Development (ABCD)”?
General Presentation Information and Format
Focused Webinars
Focused Webinars is a platform where delegates can exchange their professional and learning experiences. It aims at giving and receiving targeted feedback, promote engaging in-depth discussions, and facilitate meeting colleagues with similar interests. A Focused Webinar session could consist of several “tables” where attendees will have the opportunity to have an in-depth discussion with presenters. 8 – 15 delegates will be grouped with a presenter. Visual Aids could include hand-outs or e-outs made available beforehand together with contact details. Advanced preparation requires preparing something relevant to the theme, sharing thoughts and ideas. The sessions are intended to be interactive, including engaging questions for the audience. Start off with one or two prepared questions to stimulate the discussion with the table. Chat room attendees can ask questions which will be communicated by the referee. Important to speak clearly, offer your personal insights, and encourage questions and discussions. Take advantage of the expertise and insights from other attendees to build your professional network. The Focused Webinars last ¾ of an hour.
Paper Presentations
Papers presented are organized into topic areas and presented sequentially in 15 - 20-minute presentation blocks, followed by 5 – 10 minutes for audience group discussion. Focus on verbal remarks on the major conclusions and implications for your study area. Visual Aids includes a flash stick with the ppoint loaded for overhead presentation. For online, voice recorded ppoints must be sent 2 weeks in advance. Presenting means not reading but introducing and engaging. Stick to the allotted 20 minutes as your talk will be cut short to allow other themed papers their full presentation time. Etiquette requires you to be on time, introduce yourself to the chairperson and timekeepers as well as the audience. Paper presentation can also be presented virtually with voice over PowerPoints and lecture style capturing. More guidelines will be provided to upload your presentation.
Submissions should be sent online by 30 September 2020
Outcome notification until 30 October 2020
Programme available: 15 November 2020
All virtual material send by: 20 November 2020