Practice Based Research
Practice-based research is a methodological approach that integrates creative or artistic practice with formal investigation into a specific subject or problem. Rather than treating artistic work and research as separate activities, this method uses the act of making, creating, or practicing as the primary means of generating knowledge and understanding. The approach is particularly suits exploration of complex, often abstract phenomena that may resist traditional empirical methods.
Characteristics and Application
In practice-based research, the creative process itself becomes a vehicle for inquiry. Knowledge is generated through iterative cycles of making, reflection, and refinement rather than through conventional hypothesis testing or data analysis alone. This approach has found particular value in fields where understanding requires tacit knowledge, embodied experience, or novel visual or material expression.
Dyslexia Visualization
A notable application of practice-based research involves investigating how dyslexia can be visualized and communicated through artistic means. Practitioners working in this area use visual experimentation and design work to develop representations that capture the perceptual and cognitive experiences associated with dyslexia. This research contributes both to artistic output and to broader understanding of neurodiversity, demonstrating how creative practice can generate insights relevant to both scientific and educational contexts.