Read this chapter from Creative Methods for Human Geographers, which focuses on reflective practices in creative research. You only need to read through page 23 (stop just before "For creative autoethnographic practices").
After reading the chapter, consider the following groups of people whom your SYN 100 project may be interacting with (this exercise is based on Figure 2.1 from the reading):
Seventh College students
All UCSD students
UCSD faculty in your major
UCSD faculty in departments other than your major
UCSD staff
UCSD administration
Residents of La Jolla
San Diego City Council
Choose 3 of the groups above (or if none are applicable to your project, you can identify alternative groups) and reflect on how your positionality intersects (or not) with these groups. What is the feasibility of accessing each group? How does your project potentially relate to each group?
Research Topic: Reflective Practices in Creative Research for SYN 100 Project
Thesis Statement:
In implementing reflective practices in creative research for the SYN 100 project, it is crucial to consider how one's positionality intersects with different groups, such as Seventh College students, UCSD faculty in the major, and residents of La Jolla, to effectively engage with these stakeholders and enhance the project's impact.
Introduction:
Reflective practices in creative research play a pivotal role in understanding how researchers' backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences shape their interactions with various stakeholders. In the context of the SYN 100 project, which aims to foster creativity and innovation, examining how one's positionality intersects with different groups can provide valuable insights into enhancing engagement and building meaningful connections.
Seventh College Students:
Seventh College students represent a key demographic for the SYN 100 project, as they are directly involved in the academic environment where creativity and innovation are encouraged. As a student researcher, my positionality aligns closely with Seventh College students, enabling me to relate to their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. The feasibility of accessing this group is high, given the shared academic setting and potential collaborative opportunities. By leveraging my positionality as a student researcher, I can actively engage with Seventh College students, co-create innovative solutions, and promote a culture of creativity within the college community.
UCSD Faculty in the Major:
Interacting with UCSD faculty in the major presents a unique opportunity to bridge academic knowledge with real-world applications. My positionality as a student researcher allows me to establish credibility and rapport with faculty members, facilitating open dialogue and collaboration. Accessing this group is feasible through departmental meetings, research seminars, and networking events. By aligning my project goals with the research interests of faculty in the major, I can leverage their expertise, mentorship, and resources to enhance the project's impact and scholarly contributions.
Residents of La Jolla:
Engaging with residents of La Jolla introduces a community-based perspective to the SYN 100 project, fostering connections beyond the university campus. While my positionality may differ from that of local residents in terms of background and life experiences, establishing trust, empathy, and cultural sensitivity is essential for meaningful interactions. Accessing this group may require community outreach initiatives, public forums, or partnerships with local organizations. By recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives, my project can address community needs, promote social inclusion, and generate positive impact within the broader La Jolla community.
Conclusion:
Incorporating reflective practices into creative research for the SYN 100 project involves critically examining how one's positionality intersects with diverse groups, such as Seventh College students, UCSD faculty in the major, and residents of La Jolla. By leveraging personal experiences, building trust-based relationships, and fostering inclusivity, researchers can effectively engage with stakeholders, co-create innovative solutions, and contribute meaningfully to academic scholarship and community development.