MLA Commons has a fresh new theme that is focused on the principles of simplicity, clarity, and ease of use. In addition to changes in layout, typography, and color scheme, some functions have been consolidated, and group forum discussions now appear on each group’s landing page. We’ve also updated the WordPress plug-ins on the Commons to add features,… Read more »
Monthly Archives: July 2014
Update on New Forum Structure
The next phase of development for the new forum structure approved by the Executive Council is under way. The Program Committee is evaluating those prospective forums that obtained at least thirty-five signatures and five leadership volunteers by 15 June. Though that deadline has passed, members are encouraged to continue to join groups of interest and… Read more »
Discussion of Doctoral Study Report Continues
In an article in Inside Higher Ed, Russell Berman, former MLA president and lead author of the report of the Task Force on Doctoral Study in Modern Language and Literature, weighs in on the continuing discussion about the report’s recommendations. Berman writes, “Doctoral study in the humanities fields contributes to the quality of society, it… Read more »
Suggestions Sought for ACLS Humanities E-book
The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) is seeking suggestions from MLA members for titles to add to ACLS Humanities E-book, an online collection of approximately 4,000 titles from many disciplines. Of particular interest are titles in LGBTQ studies, communications, film and media studies, non-Western languages and literatures, gender studies, race and ethnic studies, animal studies, and age… Read more »
MLA Joins in Issuing Net Neutrality Principles
The MLA has joined other higher education and library organizations to release a set of neutrality principles that they recommend form the basis of an upcoming Federal Communications Commission (FCC) decision to protect the openness of the Internet. “The Modern Language Association is committed to the principles of net neutrality that have long protected the… Read more »
Oppose Proposed Cuts to the NEH
The House Appropriations Committee is proposing reducing funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities, lowering its budget by $8 million compared to 2014. To voice your opposition to this cut, please use the form on the National Humanities Alliance Web site to send a message to your elected officials.
1 September Deadline for NVS Digital Challenge
The deadline for submitting projects for the second NVS Digital Challenge has been extended to 1 September 2014. The challenge, sponsored by the MLA Committee on the New Variorum Edition of Shakespeare (NVS), seeks to find the most innovative and compelling uses of the data contained in one of the NVS editions. This year the… Read more »
MLA Cited in Post on the Changing Shape of the Humanities Postdoc
While some postdoctoral fellowships in the humanities emphasize research and provide benefits, writes Sydni Dunn of Vitae, others require high teaching loads and leave little time for scholarship. “I’ve seen a lot of postdocs that are sometimes no different than the kind of work an adjunct is asked to do off the tenure track,” commented… Read more »
2014 Membership Enrollment Deadline Extended
The deadline to join the association for the 2014 membership year has been extended from 30 June to 31 July. If you join or renew by 31 July, you will be able to vote in the 2014 elections this fall. You will also be able to register early—at discounted rates—for the 2015 convention in Vancouver…. Read more »