Re-thinking Narrative Methods of Intersectional Research. Gender, Migration, and Age(ing) in the Context of Care Practices

In feminist research, it is standard practice to investigate experience-related knowledge in order to represent the lived realities of women. However, such knowledge can only be gathered using an intersectional perspective which allows for making diverse attributions of differences and social inequality. Especially when considering the possibility of cultural and language barriers, both of which are hard to overcome for researchers socialized in Western Europe, the methodological diversity and participatory modality of Narrative Inquiry provides opportunities for creative exchange and transfer of knowledge(s) (Caine 2010). Against this backdrop, this workshop on methodologies of aging and care research opens up a space for junior researchers (Pre-Doc and Post-Doc) getting to know each other and to have in-depth discussions on their research. The first day workshop focuses on research projects in the field of Age(ing), Care, and Migration Studies which will be presented from a methodological viewpoint. Day two is dedicated to Narrative Inquiry as a practical research method. On the evening of day one, the talks by Prof. Mark Schweda (University of Oldenburg, Germany) and Prof. Vera Caine (University of Victoria, Canada) will be open to public.

Workshop - Day 1
Wednesday, 14 June 2023, 10:00-17:15, GEWI Sitzungszimmer, University of Graz
Presentation of research projects in the field of Age(ing), Care, and Migration Studies.

Workshop - Day 2
Thursday, 15 June 2023, 10:00-17:00, GEWI Sitzungszimmer, University of Graz
Introduction to Narrative Inquiry

Vera Caine (Victoria, Canada): Introduction to Narrative Inquiry
This workshop will assist those interested, or engaged in, narrative inquiry. The focus is on developing participants’ understandings of, and commitment to, narrative inquiry as a complex relational research methodology. In conversation and through hands on explorations, participants will engage in writing, reading, and response groups throughout the workshop. Interactive activities will highlight the different components of narrative inquiry. The focus is on exploring various forms of field texts and possibilities for research texts, with particular attention to relational and ethical considerations in the inquiry process.

Concept and Organization
- Mag. Anna-Christina Kainradl MA (Graz)
- Prof. Dr. Helen Kohlen (Vallendar, Germany and Graz)
- Prof. Dr. Ulla Kriebernegg (Graz)
- Dr. Patrick Schuchter (Graz)
- Stefan Schweigler BA MA (Graz)
- Dr. Merle Weßel (Oldenburg, Germany)

Registration: cirac(at)uni-graz.at

The two workshops are part of the Elisabeth List Fellowship Project “Gender Matters: Aging, Care, and Migration.”

You can find a pdf of the program here.