Arts-based Methods for Collective Action

Course Description:

This course provides an overview of arts-based research methods for collective action. In this course, participants will explore the benefits and challenges of arts-based methods for community-based research, evaluation, advocacy, and collective action. Potential methods may include but are not limited to: participatory visual methods (i.e., photovoice, digital storytelling, cellphilms), theatre-informed research, poetry, body-mapping, creative non-fiction, and more. Through interactive and experiential sessions, students will gain practical skills in the "why" and "how" of using participatory art-making for community dialogue, engagement and empowerment, as well as explore how to ethically design, initiate, analyze and share arts-based research to foster equitable collaboration and drive social change. Ideal for students, artists, community organizers, researchers, and social service professionals, this course equips you to harness the potential of the arts for meaningful community engagement and knowledge sharing.

Course Objectives:

During this course, students will:

1- Explore the opportunities, constraints and tensions of arts-based research and evaluation methods related to different social change topics.

2- Have an opportunity to trial different arts-based methods, and consider ways to adapt for use in your own work

3- Think deeply about the unique ethical and design issues for equitably implementing, analyzing, and sharing arts-based research, in the context of community-driven, action-oriented and participatory research.

Delivery Method: Online (Synchronous) on Zoom

Instructors: Sarah Switzer, Janna Martin

Course Length: 14 hours

Prerequisite: A Menu of Community-Based Research Methods is encouraged but not required

Course Sessions Dates and Time:

Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM ET

Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM ET

Friday, October 23, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM ET

Note: The online sessions will include regular breaks from the screen, interactive activities, and arts-based practice.

Course Costs:

• Each course: $695
• Cost for Basic Community-based Research Certificate: is $2,780 (4 courses x $695)
• Cost for Advanced Community-based Research Certificate: is $5,560 (8 courses x $695)
• As a charitable organization, CCBR is HST (tax) exempt
• A $50 discount is available when course cost paid four weeks in advance. Please ensure you use the [earlybird] code when registering to receive the discount.
• Bursary: Up to 3 bursary spots available per course (see details here)
• Students from any institution save 10%. Email general@communitybasedresearch.ca from your university email address with a picture of your student card to access the discount code

How to Register:

To begin registration, first enter the buyer's information. Once completed, click "Register", and you'll then be able to add the details for the participant.

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

• A full refund (minus a $50 administration fee) will be issued for cancellations made at least two weeks before the first class.
• A 70% refund will be provided for cancellations made up to 2 days before the first class. ​
• No refunds will be issued for cancellations or no-shows made on or after the first class.