Insights from operationalizing, testing and evaluating the ENRICHER method: INSYTE-Cooley Research Lab Case Study

Abstract

This paper uses the INSYTE-Cooley Research Lab (I-CRL) as a case study. The view of the I-CRL as a Complex Adaptive System is expressed. Preliminary results from the analyzed data present the ‘themes’ and underlying ‘codes’ from a subset of transcripts. The research methodology uses a meta-methodology of Participation Action Research (PAR) and within the PAR framework the research method is qualitative. Reflective Thematic Analysis (RTA) is used on the transcripts. The transcripts come from regular fortnightly meetings of the I-CRL and some informal meetings. These ‘themes’, ‘codes’ and what they identify are discussed. The study is a longitudinal study. The key outcomes are the creation of a Human-Centered Systems approach to the curation and digitization of cultural heritage both tangible and intangible. The knowledge gained shows a framework within which a new method called the ENRICHER method is being operationalized, tested and evaluated. Some of the findings, so far, show tension points between human centric and techno centric world views and the importance of understanding the curation processes as a forerunner to the formation of a human-machine symbiosis.