Digital IDEAS is the annual summer institute of the Digital Studies Institute at the University of Michigan. The institute is open to a broad cohort, including advanced graduate students from campuses in the US and abroad, early career scholars and alt-ac practitioners, artists, and activists. Over the course of one week, attendees will participate in keynote lectures, panel discussions, methodology workshops, writing workshops, and group discussions. The institute will be held in-person on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Each year's session will focus on a new pressing issue at the intersection of technology and social justice.
In 2021, we launched DISCO: The Digital Inquiry, Speculation, Collaboration, & Optimism Network.
In 2022, we explored Critical Access: Technology & Disability Justice.
In 2023, we explored Digital Physical Entanglements: Environments, Bodies, and Space.
In 2024, we explored Digital X Climate.
For 2025 we will eschew a formal theme. Instead, we welcome intensive inquiry at the intersection of brokenness and survivalism
For questions about participating, please visit the Apply page or email Sarah Torsch at dsi-studentservices@umich.edu to join our mailing list.
