Natural experiments: Researching life through art. (1st December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McNiff, Shaun
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied arts & health. Volume 12:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 249
• Page End: 257
• Publication Date: 2021-12-01
• Subjects: Arts -- Therapeutic use -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Arts -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Counseling -- Periodicals; 615.8515
• DOI: 10.1386/jaah_00074_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2040-2457

Abstract

Natural experiments are examinations of spontaneous and often transformative acts of nature, including artistic expression. The empirical research produces generalizable outcomes as documented during the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. This article discusses how the unplanned nature of natural experiments is contrary to the pervasive practice of research in higher education, including the author's personal experience as a research advisor. It is suggested that in the future, art-based natural experiments will enable research to correspond to life processes more fully.