How have you contributed to innovative historical research?

1 Identify gaps and questions

One of the first steps to contribute to innovative historical research is to identify gaps and questions in the existing literature and sources. This requires a critical and curious mind, as well as a broad and deep knowledge of your field of interest. You can use various methods and tools to find out what has been written, debated, and overlooked in your topic, such as bibliographies, databases, reviews, and online platforms. You can also consult experts, colleagues, and mentors for guidance and feedback.

3 Engage with different audiences and formats

A third way to contribute to innovative historical research is to engage with different audiences and formats that can communicate and disseminate your findings and arguments. This can involve writing for different publications and platforms, such as journals, books, blogs, podcasts, or social media. It can also involve presenting and discussing your research in different settings and contexts, such as conferences, workshops, seminars, or public events. By doing so, you can reach out to a wider and more diverse audience, receive feedback and criticism, and establish connections and collaborations.

4 Reflect on your own position and role

A fourth way to contribute to innovative historical research is to reflect on your own position and role as a researcher and a historian. This can involve being aware of and acknowledging your assumptions, biases, limitations, and ethical responsibilities in conducting and presenting your research. It can also involve being open to learning from and respecting other perspectives, cultures, and experiences that can enrich and challenge your own. By doing so, you can foster a critical and reflexive attitude that can improve your research quality and integrity.

5 Embrace uncertainty and creativity

A fifth way to contribute to innovative historical research is to embrace uncertainty and creativity as essential elements of the research process. This can involve being flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, problems, and opportunities that may arise during your research. It can also involve being imaginative and original in developing and testing your research questions, hypotheses, and arguments. By doing so, you can overcome difficulties and discover new possibilities that can advance your research and the field.

6 Keep learning and improving

A sixth way to contribute to innovative historical research is to keep learning and improving your historical research skills and knowledge. This can involve seeking and applying feedback, advice, and support from your peers, mentors, and experts. It can also involve updating and expanding your reading, training, and experience in your field of interest and beyond. By doing so, you can enhance your competence and confidence as a historical researcher and a lifelong learner.