Reflective Drawing as a Tool for Reflection in Design Research

Abstract

AbstractThis article explores the role of drawing as a tool for reflection. It reports on a PhD research project that aims to identify and analyse the value that co‐design processes can bring to participants and their communities. The research is associated with Leapfrog, a three‐year project funded by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). It aims to transform public engagement through activating participation using co‐design practices. The article reports on the analysis of initial research findings arising from a series of workshops with members of non‐profit organisations on the Isle of Mull, in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, in which co‐design practices were used. The article reflects on the use of drawing used as a tool to capture the author's reflections and her own personal development as a researcher. In this study the term ‘reflective drawing’ refers to the use of drawing as a tool to support the research reflection process within an ethnographic approach to the fieldwork. Reflective drawing is used in two different stages of the reflection process: (1) to record data during fieldwork enabling reflection‐in‐action, complementing field notes and disclosing visual and kinaesthetic learning; and (2) to recall lived experience during the reflection sessions conducted after the observed activity, which helps to establish a bridge between theory and practice. Reflection is defined as an intuitive process that enables the understanding of oneself within a context of practice. Hence, understanding reflective drawing requires exploration of the reflection process.