Methodological insights from a small-scale study with school-based art therapists on the utility of combining audio diary and arts-based research
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 12645404 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Jason S Frydman (0000-0003-0898-3884, Lesley University), Bretny Seamon (Lesley University), Sydney N Overton (0000-0002-0630-2961, Lesley University), Sydney Overton (Lesley University Department of Expressive Therapies) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Pages | 1-13 |
| Publication date | 2026-01-07 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | No |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Qualitative Research Journal (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1443-9883 • E-ISSN: 1448-0980 |
| Publisher | Emerald Publishing Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1108/qrj-10-2025-0378 |
| OpenAlex | W7119040283 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 38 |
Purpose While quantitative and qualitative approaches have been used to capture school-based creative arts therapy practice, the integration of audio diaries with arts-based methods remains unexplored. Audio diaries support in-depth, vocalized reflection that reduces communication barriers and enhances access to individual perceptions, while arts-based responses extend inquiry through symbolic expression. Design/methodology/approach This methods-focused examination investigates four art therapists' experiences with both tools in a multiple case study of professional successes and challenges in school-based creative arts therapy. Post-participation semi-structured interviews evaluated the utility of each method, both isolated and in conjunction with one another. Findings Results highlighted the unique positive potential of combining audio diaries with arts-based responses to advance qualitative, arts-based research in school-based creative arts therapy. Originality/value Recommendations are offered for implementation and sequencing of these data collection tools in school-based creative arts therapy research, particularly for investigating practitioner experiences
Creativity · Data collection · Project commissioning · Publishing · Qualitative research · Reflection (computer programming · The arts · Art Therapy and Mental Health · Counseling, Therapy, and Family Dynamics · Occupational Therapy Practice and Research
Learning to use new technologies by older adults
Art-Based Research
Thematic Analysis
A qualitative examination of barriers to disseminating and accessing research in Irish schools
Thematic analysis of qualitative data
Using audio-diaries for research and education
Creative arts therapy in the United States school system
The purpose and importance of personal creativity for creative arts therapists
Qualitative and Arts-Based Evidence from Children Participating in a Pilot Randomised Controlled Study of School-Based Arts Therapies
Evaluating the audio-diary method in qualitative research
Three Approaches to Case Study Methods in Education
Capturing emotion with audio diaries
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |