Creative Research Methods 2e. Kara, Helen

the process (Leavy 2009: ix; Saldaña 2015: 122). Creative methods are intended to extend, not replace, the tools in the researcher’s toolbox. However, creative research methods, as discussed in this book, may be particularly useful in addressing the kinds of complex contemporary research questions that conventional research methods are not able to answer (Taber 2010: 5). Also, creative research methods can be exciting and inspiring. One word of caution, though: the method(s) you use must flow from your research question, and not the other way around.

      This chapter has focused mostly on methods. The next will discuss some methodologies. (See Chapter 1 if you are unclear about the distinction between methodology and method.)

REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS

      1.What skills do you have? How might they link with and contribute to your research work?

      2.What do you find most interesting in the world? Can you formulate a research question from that topic? (Don’t worry about whether the research would be possible or practical to do. Formulating a research question can be a useful exercise in itself.)

      3.Where do you stand on the spectrum from ‘disembodied’ to ‘embodied’ research? When and why might you change your position?

      4.Can you think of a research project that could be addressed using a multi-modal design involving arts-based methods and using technology? (Again, this doesn’t have to be a ‘good’ or even a possible project.)

      5.If you began some autoethnographic work, which aspect of your life would you focus on?