Supporting the wellbeing of associate lecturers at the Open University through a creative arts intervention

Renu Bhandari

Abstract


This case study discusses an online space created for associate lecturers (ALs) working at the Open University, with the intention of supporting wellbeing through sharing – and responding to – each other’s examples of creative arts activities. This paper reflects on engagement with and outcomes from this intervention. Four key themes emerged in participant responses to the intervention: 1) increased connectedness; 2) a feeling of being away from work; 3) happiness, enjoyment and positive feelings; and 4) openness to new places, ideas and shares. The results were analysed in line with available studies on sense of belonging, connectedness and well-being. This project highlights the potential for shared online creative activities to support connectedness and wellbeing in educators and students who are working in the online environment.  


Keywords


Creative arts; Higher education; wellbeing; online spaces; inclusive; connectedness

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.21100/compass.v16i1.1367

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