Netherlands Winter School on Narrative

The Netherlands Winter School on Narrative is a PhD winter school that explores the distinct and complementary affordances of narrative and the arts in knowledge-making, experience-sharing, and value negotiation.

Narrative and the Arts

From everyday life to the frontiers of academic inquiry, storytelling and the arts permeate how we think, communicate, persuade, remember, and envision. This winter school delves into the interplay of narrative and the arts, examining how they shapeand are shaped bysocial realities.

Content

The winter school combines close reading, collaborative projects, interactive workshops, and experimental exercises to foster a richer understanding of how stories and the arts shape social realities. Participants will engage with literary, visual, performative, and digital modes of expression.

What to Expect

Participants from the humanities, social, behavioral, and technological sciences are invited to critically and creatively explore the interplay of narrative and the arts in relation to their own research, design, and practice. Prior to the winter school, participants will prepare through selected readings and assignments. During the course, they will collaborate in interdisciplinary groups to develop a project that reflects on or integrates narrative and artistic practices within their research.

Learning Goals

At the end of the winter school, participants will be able to:

• Practice interdisciplinary skills by working together towards a project presentation
• Critically reflect on how to apply arts and narrative in their own research

Target Group

The winter school is designed for a maximum of 25 PhDs and early career researchers interested in the study of narrative, as well as professionals interested in storytelling. Participants are expected to have a sufficient command of the English language to participate actively in discussions and present their own work in English. Participants will receive a certificate of participation, and PhD students will receive 2 ECTS for preparing and participating in the Winter School for their TGS Training and Supervision Plan.

Location and Dates

The Netherlands Winter School on Narrative will take place in Enschede from January 20-22, 2026.

University of Twente Summary

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Overview:

University of Twente (UT) is a research university located in Enschede, Netherlands. It is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and strong focus on technology and innovation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Twente offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities to join student teams, associations, and participate in sports. Students can expect a diverse and international community.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Entrepreneurial Focus:

UT is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and encourages students to develop innovative ideas and solutions.

Strong Research:

The university boasts state-of-the-art research institutes and lab facilities in various fields, including nanotechnology, biomedical technology, IT, and engineering.

International Environment:

UT attracts students and researchers from around the world, fostering a diverse and global learning environment.

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Academic Programs:

UT offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's programs across various disciplines, including:

Business Studies and Public Policy

Engineering & Technology

Information Technology (IT)

Life Sciences & Medicine

Natural Sciences

Social Sciences

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Other:

The university also provides education for professionals and prospective students through online courses (MOOCs), PhD and EngD programs, pre-university programs, and Studium Generale lectures.