Methodology, Methods and Timeline
The methodological framework for my project is Action Research. The preocess of action research is a continuing cycle of planning, action, evaluation and reflection.
It asks that a plan, an idea or a theory be checked against action and experience, and that conversely, action be informed and enriched by theory, planning and ideas. Action Research: A Pathway to Action Knowledge and Learning
Action Research is a suitable paradigm for this research project since it encompasses the experimental nature of a studio-based arts practice. "The action involved in experimental - at times planned and guided and at other times spontaneous and free-wheeling". Action Research: A Pathway to Action Knowledge and Learning
The action research framework also considers the requirements of a systematic inquiry within a creative field such as arts practice. "The creation of meaning or knowledge is both systematic and creative - both about the discovery or deeper understanding of what is 'out there' waiting to be known, and the invention of something new and 'frame breaking'".Action Research: A Pathway to Action Knowledge and Learning
It is anticipated that my research project will progress through five cycles. A reflective journal will be used throughout these cycles to record and reflect upon research developments, and aid in maintaining a systematic and rigorous inquiry. A reflective/interpretive approach will also be taken with the literature.
Cycle 1: February 2002 - September 2002
The first cycle involves reflecting on prior practice, research interest and artifacts to focus and refine my research project. Planning and action in this cycle encompasses creation of artifacts in the studio through a material-driven photographic practice; literature and artifact reviews that explore process-based practice, contemporary photography, painting, installation, postphotography, abstraction; several draft proposals and a seminar paper . The outcome of this cycle is an exhibition at the project space - CACSA, the presentation of a seminar paper and completion of the research proposal.
Cycle 2: October 2002 - January 2003
The second cycle will involve reflecting on the artifacts, seminar paper research proposal from cycle one and making any amendments required. Planning and action will include: addressing and investigating developments that arise as a consequence of the proposal (eg. Influence of Walter Benjamin on contemporary writing about technology); responding to feedback from exhibition/artifacts and addressing new concerns and research ideas through studio practice - ongoing production of artifacts; Continue to research and analyse artists who have a dialogue with photography in their work eg. Gerhard Richter, Sigmar Polke; Refine research interest through the first plan/draft of thesis. The outcome of this cycle will be a studio critique, the completion of a series of resolved artifacts and the first plan for a thesis including provisional chapter titles/themes.
Cycle 3: January 2003 - August 2003
The third cycle will involve reflecting on the artifacts, literature and draft thesis from previous cycle and addressing any concerns and successes that have arisen. Planning and action in this cycle will encompass the completion of a second draft of thesis; ongoing studio research and production of artifacts; the generation of research questions for overseas field trip; identifying contacts and making arrangements to attend meetings, exhibitions, seminars and possibly present a paper. The outcome of this cycle will be a completed second thesis draft, presentation of a seminar paper and resolved artifacts.
Cycle 4: September 2003 - November 2003
Cycle Four will involve reflecting on artifacts produced and thesis second draft and travel plans. This cycle will included a 2-3 month overseas excursion so planning and action will include attending exhibitions, seminars and meetings relevant to research questions. The outcome of this cycle will be the completion of an overseas field trip and an set of field notes derived from research questions.
Cycle 5: November 2003 - January/February 2004
Cycle Five will involve reflecting on overseas trip and research; the second thesis draft from cycle three and artifacts produced since cycle one. Planning and action in this cycle will encompass the production of artifacts for a final exhibition; ongoing literature and artifact reviews; completion of final draft of exegesis. The outcome of cycle four is an exhibition of artifacts and a 10,000 word written exegesis.
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