Narrative qualitative research in the social sciences: workshop and seminar

WORKSHOP - Narratives, Narratology and Narrating: Exploring Narrative Methods (10-12.30)

Over the last 20 years, interest has grown in narrative modes of knowledge and narrative forms of research. A brief survey of work in this area reveals a wide range of approaches, some authors examining narratives of organizational life, others interested in narrative structures, and yet others using narrative as a research method.  In this workshop we will explore the various styles of narrative-informed work, beginning with the fundamental assumptions that underpin the various approaches and how they might inform the practice of narrative researchers.

SEMINAR - Conducting Research:  Filling Spaces in Imaginative, Thought-Provoking Ways (2pm-3pm)

If we begin to think of qualitative research being about telling authentic, rigorous and elegant 'stories' that offer insights into lived experience, what forms might our research take?  I will suggest that creating and writing such stories means being curious, engaging our imagination and embracing liminality – those in-between spaces where we explore issues relating to topic, design, method, theory and our ‘role’ as researchers.  Inevitably, this approach raises questions about rigor, relevance, and what constitutes 'good' theory.  We will explore these challenges and the possibilities for research practice.

Biography

Ann L Cunliffe joined the Business School in September 2012 from the University of New Mexico, USA.   Ann’s current research interests lie at the intersection of organizational studies, philosophy and communications, exploring how leaders and managers shape organizational life, identities and action in living conversations.