To Do This Discussion Differently: Exploring the Potential of Contemplative Arts-Based Data Analysis

• In Event: 67.070 - Sheraton Roundtable 14 - Grand Centre
  In Roundtable Session: 67.070-5 - Criticality, Diversity, and Cross-Cultural Methodological Possibilities of Arts-Based Educational Research

Abstract

This paper describes a unique methodology that combines arts-based data analysis and contemplative practice. Reflecting on a practitioner research study that asks, “what happens when student teachers are invited to learn about trans/gender diverse identities through a creative exploration of their own relationship to identity+change”, I explain how Contemplative Arts Based Data Analysis (CABDA) can support researchers whose work connects deeply with personal life experiences. Using mixed-media art layered with academic writing, I illustrate how CABDA informs me as a researcher who is transgender, and who also facilitates sexual/gender diversity education for teachers. The text portion of this paper details that work with teacher candidates, while my images explore the role of personal memory and emotion in qualitative research.

Author

• benjamin lee hicks, University of Toronto