Interdisciplinary perspectives on practice-based research

Abstract

This chapter is about the many different ways in which the term ‘practice-based research’ is used and understood, both across and within a variety of disciplines. I draw upon my own research experience in a number of fields, and my exploration of the published literature, to consider the features of practice-based research in its numerous embodiments. I argue that, while certain features are more prevalent in practice-based research, there is no single set of methodological, paradigmatic, epistemological, or other criteria that is sufficiently specific to differentiate it from practice and/or other forms of research, in all instances. I go on to suggest that a possible thread that links the disparate uses of the term relates to a desire to break down some of the value systems that privilege certain methodologies, professions, academic disciplines, or other subgroups in our epistemic endeavours. I further suggest that interdisciplinary approaches, which accept and explore the tensions that arise from such differences in perspective, can enhance understanding and become a rich source of new insights.