Abstract
This paper introduces Hopscotch as both a metaphor and a methodological provocation for participatory, art and design based action research. Emerging from a collaborative workshop setting, Hopscotch reimagines research as a rhythmic, embodied, and playful activity where researchers are not distant observers but engaged players on a dynamic field. Rooted in traditions of Art-Based Action Research (ABAR), Participatory Research through Design (PRtD), and contemporary play theory, Hopscotch invites leaping across disciplines, misstepping into new insights, and designing from a place of poetic disorientation. Drawing on our own creative research practices, and the reflections of participants during a hands-on workshop, we explore Hopscotch as a method that embraces ambiguity, honors embodied knowledge, and affirms the political potential of play. Hopscotch does not seek to displace existing methods, but to reframe them, inviting researchers to play seriously and take playfulness seriously. In this paper, we trace the metaphor’s resonance in both theory and practice, share examples from our workshop, and articulate how Hopscotch holds space for multi-vocal, emergent inquiry. Ultimately, we propose Hopscotch as an invitation to those navigating creative research: chalk your court, throw your marker, and leap into the unknown. The fall, we argue, is part of the method.
Presenters
Azeem HamidDoctoral Student, Art and Design, Estonian Academy of Arts, Estonia Taavi Varm
Junior Researcher, PhD Student, Fine Arts, Estonian Academy of Arts, Harjumaa, Estonia
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Play, Participatory action research, Design education, Participation
