Innovative and Inclusive Methods in the Sociology of Health and Wellbeing
A BSA Early Career Forum Regional Event
23 September 2025 (9.30am-4pm BST)
The Great Hall, Northumbria University, UK
About the Event
Creative research can help to overcome limits of conventional methods, by involving more diverse groups and perspectives. However, innovative and creative methods may seem intimidating, or it might be hard to know where to start. This BSA Early Career Forum event invites academics and doctoral candidates to explore possibilities for innovation and creativity within research practice.
The day will combine presentations by experienced panel members, who will share their insights from using innovative and inclusive methods, along with interactive activities, discussion, and networking opportunities. Following the event, participants will have opportunities to continue discussions and collaborations, potentially leading to shared outputs such as blog posts, joint articles, or future workshops, fostering ongoing networks in innovative methods.
This Early Career Forum Regional Event is generously funded by the British Sociological Association (BSA).
Indicative Programme:
| 09:30-10:00 |
Registration and refreshments |
| 10:00-10:40 |
Welcome and introduction to the day |
|
10:40-12:50 (incorporates a comfort break) |
Innovative and creative research approaches: experiences shared by four panel members, including visual ethnography, arts-based methods, inclusive interview methods. |
| 12:50-13:45 | Lunch |
| 13:45-14:15 |
Panel discussion and Q&A |
| 14:15-15:30 |
Session exploring potential for innovation and creativity within attendees' research |
| 15:30-16:00 |
Plenary discussion, including ideas for future collaboration |
| 16:00 |
Close |
NB: The final programme, and speakers’ bios and photos, will be added to the website prior to the event
Travel Bursaries
If you are a doctoral candidate, you can apply for one of five travel bursaries of up to £25 each. Please fill in the form here to apply, indicating the amount you would like to apply for and the travel you will use this for. Applications for travel bursaries will close on 01/08/25.
Contact
For more information about the conference, please contact the organiser Petra Mäkelä.