I test this PAR method for inclusivity via application in an ongoing series of theory-practice relays exploring situated interactions between residents of a North London neighbourhood. I work alongside Clapton Commons, a charity and open network for neighbours, in concert with local community groups. In the main case study, cultural probes are handed out inviting neighbours into contactless connection with neighbours unlike them. Ten to twenty pairs of neighbours, each pair bridging two communities in Upper Clapton. The probes are audio probes – voice recorders – a custom-designed, easy, safe and fun-to-use portable, handheld channel of communication called chatterhood that does not require physical presence, a phone, the internet or mains power to use.

Participants learn that their contributions need not be voiced in-person amid the buzz of face-to-face events. They are free to gather themselves towards making recordings at their own pace, in their own style; listen to received recordings in their own space, and at a time of their own choosing. In chatterhood, listening and speaking weigh the same.

Disruption to relational mechanisms wrought by the pandemic playing out in a climate of extreme political polarisation, adds to the urgency of this work.

I am a founding editor of itinerant space, an experimental online platform for doctoral researchers, based in the School of Communication, RCA. The academic journal seeks to push at the boundaries of academic publishing and support the research practices of PGRs at RCA.

itinerant space is launching its first “Open Call” for the next issue at a peer review workshop it is facilitating at the Research Biennale on Saturday 24 June at 3:15pm. Book now.

The intent of the workshop is to explore the pedagogical value of peer review processes and to critically engage with what this means for researchers in academic publishing. Led by the journal’s editors and SoC researchers, we invite you to join us in conversation and apply to become a member of our peer review panel.