Humanities and Social Science (HASS) research software engineering (RSE) is a relatively new way of thinking about long-standing practices. We think it holds great promise, nationally and internationally. HASS RSE is based on two assumptions:
1. Digital methods across the spectrum of HASS research have matured to a point where we can identify a distinct technology 'stack' with significant amounts of common infrastructure, tools, standards, and methods. It is only at the ‘top’ of the stack that methods diverge, in important ways that support disciplinary-specific epistemologies and methodologies. If we consolidate the stack, we can support distinctive modes of digital research across the core disciplines and provide access to RSE support to a wider range of colleagues.
2. The failure to fully realise the potential of digital HASS research is primarily human rather than technological. By investing in people (HASS RSEs) and their careers, we can better manage the socio-technical and operational issues associated with digital research while also supporting creativity and epistemological and methodological rigour. Healthy and productive RSE teams underpin investment in research infrastructure (RI) and are essential enablers of research innovation and creativity.
Because of the wide range of tools and methods across the HASS stack, especially in an era of artificial intelligence (AI), teams like HDRH need to tailor their research services to local needs rather than following their own path. We aim to support colleagues regardless of their technological focus. Possibilities include:
- Digital media analysis
- Manuscript digitization and text encoding
- Archive development
- Machine learning and artificial intelligence
- Data analysis and visualization
- Digital mapping
- Virtual reality
- Gaming
- Web development
If you have an idea, large or small, contact us. Capacity is always an issue, so please plan well ahead.
If you have a suggestion about how we can improve our approach to HASS RSE, contact the director.