Practice-based research - Health Sciences

Critical research component (exegesis)

The exegesis must frame the artefact with a specific set of research questions. Sample questions include:

• How is the artefact addressing questions or issues that have not been addressed elsewhere in the public sphere?
• How has the approach replicated or departed from existing practices?
• How, specifically, is the approach considered innovative?

Your exegesis will include an introduction that states the aims, scope and proposed methods of the entire project and – if appropriate – how each component relates to art therapy or arts and health research. The introduction will address the examinable work as a whole.

You will also need to include:

• a literature review chapter addressing the themes of the exegesis. This would normally include a discussion of therapeutic and academic approaches.
• a methodology chapter explaining the techniques and approaches relating to the artefact.
• a reflective chapter that explains insights gleaned by the completion of the artefact and how these might apply to both academic and therapeutic practice. (This should not, however, be framed as a ‘making of’ story where you elaborate on what you have learnt about health instruction or project techniques etc.)

The artefact

Artefacts are typically based in visual arts and address the therapeutic/wellness needs of individuals or community groups. The size and breadth of the artefact varies considerably depending on the health intervention or project and may consist of an art exhibition, video, website, a set of materials such as a story book, image/emotion cards, or art journaling tools.

The artefact will have a demonstrated relationship with the exegesis. If it is a set of visual and other materials to be utilised directly with clients or consumers, the composite of elements must demonstrate a direct relationship with the therapeutic or health issue being addressed. The exhibition may be the manifestation of an art-based method of inquiry employed by the maker. Some exhibitions will also require the inclusion of panels (didactic panels) providing background to the exhibition. The exhibition is considered a public event and as such you will have an opening and develop exhibition invitations. You will present your final exhibition in a gallery or other appropriate venue with the approval of the School and must outline the proposed arrangements an exhibition presentation plan three months in advance.