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Code of Conduct

Welcome to our online working community, The Academic Writers’ Space (TAWS)!

TAWS is a virtual coworking community where we come together to progress our work in a supportive and nurturing environment. TAWS is a global community, and we wholeheartedly support and value the diverse experiences, viewpoints, and voices within it and believe they enrich our collective understanding and strengthen our sense of community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful space where all members feel valued, heard, and respected, regardless of location, background, or identity. Your contributions are integral to our shared journey, and we are grateful to have you as part of our community.

To facilitate a safe and inclusive space that embodies these values, TAWS asks its members to adhere to the following Code of Conduct which outlines our shared principles to ensure a positive and productive experience for everyone.

Code of Conduct/ Guidelines for participation in TAWS:

Nurturing Community:

We wholeheartedly welcome and value all levels of participation, from quiet members to chatty members. This includes individuals at varying stages of their academic work, whether newcomers or veterans. TAWS is an online co-working community where academic writers, including without limitation: students, researchers, and professors, come together to develop a sound writing practice and complete research activities. We cherish the participation of every member, whether they prefer to engage actively or quietly. Remember, there are no dumb questions here; we are here to support you!

Session Types and Protocols:

Facilitated Sessions:

Our sessions include a facilitator introduction, two work sessions, with a break at the top of the hour to check in, and a short closing. Because we are all on an academic journey, we often have lively discussions on themes related to the work during these breaks, so please share! We also understand that sharing isn’t always predictable, so please keep the structure in mind when contributing to sessions. Our booking page explains how our sessions work in more detail, but here are a few key points.

Silent Sessions:

Silent Sessions are structured quiet coworking sessions facilitated by a TAWS Community Leader. These sessions offer our members the structure and community presence available in our 2-Hour Writing Retreats without all the talking. 

Key Protocols:

  • Please turn off your camera during work sessions.
  • Please keep your microphone muted unless you are actively sharing.
  • The chat feature offers a valuable opportunity for participation, so feel free to use it to engage with fellow members and share your thoughts if you prefer. In TAWS Silent Sessions the chat is used primarily for goal setting and check ins, to ensure concentration is prioritized.
Your cooperation in following these session protocols is greatly appreciated and contributes to our community’s success.

Privacy and Safe Space:

Within our community, we prioritize the protection of privacy and the creation of a protected environment where members can openly share thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment, harassment, or harm. It’s essential that we all respect the boundaries of this safe space. Please refrain from taking screenshots or images of members without their explicit consent and avoid sharing personal contributions from TAWS sessions beyond that specific session.
Each sharing moment represents a unique instance of vulnerability within a time and place of safety for that member, and it’s not transferrable. Your understanding and respect for these boundaries are crucial in maintaining the trust and security of our community.

Respect Diverse experiences and points of view of members:

Within our community, every voice holds value, and we embrace diversity of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. While disagreements are unusual in this group, on the rare occasion they occur, members must express them respectfully and avoid using language that marginalizes or alienates other perspectives.

Sharing Concerns/ Offering Feedback:

If you encounter any unsafe or concerning behavior, please promptly report it to the facilitator or to TAWS leadership via the TAWS Suggestion Box. The TAWS Suggestion Box allows you to share anonymously, but if you would like to be contacted by Alison, please share your name and email in the message you send. 

Conclusion:

By being a member of our community, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Your commitment to these principles is essential in creating a vibrant, inclusive, and respectful online working space. Thank you for being part of our community!