Practice-as-Research

‘Practice-as-Research’ (or sometimes ‘Research-into-Practice’, ‘Practice-based Research’, or ‘Performance-as-Research’), in a performance studies context, is a methodology exploring the close relationship between theory and practice as forms of research.

This DSA working group investigates dance practice as a research tool, and aims to understand underlying epistemological issues which can only be generated through a practical approach to studying dance.

The focus of this group is discussions and exchange of information concerning Practice-as-Research in university instructional settings. The group shall serve as a platform to share knowledge, goals, strategies, materials and research ideas.

1. Topic of discussion for the working group include:
2. What is Practice-as-Research in a performance studies context and how is Practice-as-Research in dance positioned within performance studies?
3. How can Practice-as-Research be integrated into a university curriculum?
4. What are the methodological guidelines for choosing appropriate methodologies for specific sites of artistic dance practice?
5. How can Practice-as-Research as a new methodology be stabilized with traditional research methodologies? What is the academic value of Practice-as-Research?
6. How can Practice-as-Research be disseminated? What are common Practice-as-Research documentation methods?

All those with interests in Practice-as-Research are invited to join the Practice-as-Research working group. In the meantime, inquiries about membership or about activities of members may be addressed by sending an email to the chair of the group.