Metaphors within/beyond the “big tent”
Finally, our participants grappled with the concept of the “big tent” and how useful this is for the current state of the field. In thinking through this idea, two of our participants suggested other metaphors that we might consider in thinking about ISSOTL and its role within SoTL more broadly.
- ISSOTL as “connective tissue” between SoTL scholars
One of our participants described ISSOTL’s role within SoTL as “connective tissue,” as the fibers that bind individual scholars to a larger entity. Within this image, the various ISSOTL initiatives including the conference, ICWGs, and interest groups represent ways of connecting the larger SoTL body.
- ISSOTL and its role in “wayfinding” within SoTL
ISSOTL might also be considered as having a wayfinding role within SoTL. This idea implies both exploration and leadership in discovering the opportunities and possibilities inherent in SoTL. Within this image, ISSOTL acts as a guide for SoTL scholars in navigating the ever-evolving field.
