FB06: Participation in the Oxford Ethnography and Education Conference, United Kingdom

Applicant: Bonan Liu
Faculty, specialisation: FB06, PhD Early childhood education

Conference Participation and Experiences

With the generous support of the Santander Mobility Fund, I participated in the Oxford Ethnography and Education Conference from 8–10 September 2025. At the conference, I presented my paper on the case of an unfinished ditch in a Waldorf kindergarten. This presentation explored how Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) can be understood beyond pedagogical intentions by attending to asymmetric and more-than-human encounters.
The conference provided me with valuable opportunities to engage in dialogue with international scholars. I received constructive feedback on my methodological approach, particularly my use of thick description, diffractive analysis, and storytelling. These insights will directly help me to strengthen the analytical clarity and rigour of my dissertation.
In addition to presenting, I served as chair for a panel, which enabled me to practice facilitation and further exchange with participants. I also learned from diverse presentations, including work on climate change and education in Tanzania, which broadened my perspective on how ethnographic research can serve as a dialogical practice with participant communities. Conversations with Professor Jonathan Tummons introduced me to the concept of “slow” scholarship, which resonated strongly with my own reflections on academic practice.

Academic Benefits and Networking

Participation in this prestigious conference advanced several goals outlined in my application. I deepened my knowledge of innovative ethnographic practices, expanded my international academic network, and gained targeted feedback that will inform the development of my doctoral dissertation. The conference was also an inspiring environment for thinking about future collaborations and ways of contributing to global discussions on posthumanism and place-based education.

Conclusion

Overall, the Santander Mobility Fund made it possible for me to participate in the Oxford Ethnography and Education Conference, which has had a direct and positive impact on my doctoral research and academic development. I am sincerely grateful for this support and for the opportunity to connect with international colleagues, advance my methodological skills, and communicate my research beyond academia.