Policy Press

Embodied Research in Migration Studies

Using Creative and Participatory Approaches

By Elena Vacchelli

Published

Jul 4, 2018

Page count

120 pages

ISBN

978-1447339069

Dimensions

198 x 129 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Jul 4, 2018

Page count

120 pages

ISBN

978-1447339083

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

Jul 4, 2018

Page count

120 pages

ISBN

978-1447339090

Imprint

Policy Press
Embodied Research in Migration Studies

The definition of data in qualitative research is expanding. This book highlights the value of embodiment as a qualitative research tool and outlines what it means to do embodied research at various points of the research process. It shows how using this non-invasive approach with vulnerable research participants, such as migrant, refugee and asylum seeking women can help service users or research participants to be involved in the co- production of services and in participatory research.

Drawing on both feminist and post-colonial theory, the author uses her own research with migrant women in London, focusing specifically on collage making and digital storytelling, whilst also considering other potential tools for practicing embodied research such as yoga, personal diaries, dance and mindfulness. Situating the concept of ‘embodiment’ on the map of research methodologies, the book combines theoretical groundwork with actual examples of application to think pragmatically about intersectionality through embodiment.

"A valuable resource for researchers, theorists, and students looking for frameworks and rich examples of creative and participatory approaches to research methods in community contexts” Mia Perry, University of Glasgow

Dr. Elena Vacchelli is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Greenwich, London specialising in migration and urban studies from a gendered perspective and has published a wide range of articles, special issues and policy reports on these themes. Her research interests include creative and participatory research tools for working with marginalised groups.

Introduction

Beyond phenomenology: embodiment in qualitative research

Doing embodied research: participatory and creative approaches

Collage-making with migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women

Digital embodiments: a two-day workshop with migrant women

Conclusions