This page is designed to answer questions about the summer Re-Boot Camp. It will be updated throughout the year.

What are the hours of the camp?

Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm each day (with a break for lunch).

Do I need to bring my own laptop?

It’s best if you do. Mac or Windows is fine, though Mac is preferred. We have a limited number of Mac desktops on a first requested, first served basis.

Will I need to do any work in advance?

You bet! You’ll need ~20 hours in advance. This includes the completion (and certificate!) of an online R training course to familiarize yourself with the software. In addition, you’ll receive a reader to introduce you to the thinking about how to apply computational analysis to the study of literature. All readings must be completed in advance of the course.

What if I’ve never programmed before?

No problem–this course is for you. The most important thing is to finish the preparatory work in advance. The camp will focus on helping you understand how to use existing scripts for analysis and customizing them depending on the nature of your data and questions. The aim of the camp is to have you analyzing texts on your own!

Will I be writing my own code by the end of the week?

For absolute beginners no. You will be comfortable using existing scripts for a variety of different analytical goals. But you will leave with the ability to analyze any kind of text data. For those with some prior experience, you will learn best practices and how to implement different approaches.

Do you have a syllabus of what we will be doing each day?

Not yet, but stay tuned for more details. A full week plan will provided before payment is required.

If I’m a graduate student, how do I request a scholarship?

Email the director, Andrew Piper, with a one paragraph explanation of why you would like to take the course and how it will impact your research.

How do I pay for the course?

By credit card or paypal. There will be an online form.

Where will I be staying?

This is up to you. We can arrange for accommodation for you in downtown Montreal near campus. You are welcome to make your own arrangements. You can make this decision when you sign up for the course.

Will there be extra-curricular events?

Yes! We will plan a group walk around the mountain one evening. We will also provide you with links to activities in Montreal. Summer is a fantastic time here in the city. Both the Fringe Fest and FrancoFolies will be taking place at this time.

What about food?

Dinners and lunches are on your own. Montreal has terrific restaurants and there are lots of options nearby McGill.

What is the cancellation policy?

Full refunds will be given up to 1 month in advance, 50% two weeks in advance, and no refund after that.