Policy Press

Borders of Qualitative Research

Navigating the Spaces Where Therapy, Education, Art, and Science Connect

By Jennifer Leigh

This engaging book explores the porous borders of research with art, therapy and education, helping researchers reflect on their practice and consider more carefully the potential consequences and impacts of their work.

Increasing numbers of researchers are using arts-based, embodied or creative methods. They promote rapport and connection, facilitating research that reaches beyond surface understanding to expose authentic stories and hidden, richer truths. Whilst powerful, these methods can have unintended consequences and the potential for harm.

Drawing on case studies and lessons learned from programmes and work across research, therapy, education, art and science, this engaging book explores and demonstrates the porous borders of research.

It invites researchers to reflect and consider the boundaries and consequences of their work in order to deepen and widen its applicability and impact across science, art, education and therapy.

"This project brings together interdisciplinary activities across research, art and science; exploring the (at times) blurred boundaries of each discipline and how academics may navigate these for generative and ethical research." Kay Sidebottom, University of Stirling

Jennifer Leigh is Reader of Creative Practices for Social Justice at the University of Kent.

Part 1: Introduction to qualitative, creative, and embodied research

Introduction to Part 1

Lesson 1: Reflection

Lesson 2: Awareness

Lesson 3: Relationship

Part 2: Disciplinary borders

Introduction to Part 2

Lessons from art

Lessons from science

Lessons from ethics

Part 3: Case studies

Introduction to Part 3

Case study 1: Working with children

Case study 2: Working with artists and researchers

Case study 3: Working with embodied academics

Case study 4: Working with scientists

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