The Research that Informs our Work

In 4 stints of ethnographic research conducted by InWithForward (since the winter of 2017/2018), 59 profiles of people have been created. Each person profiled has given consent to share their information. Some people have chosen to change their names and not have their images used. Please note that the information about the people profiled is a snapshot in time; their situations have changed since the profile cards were written.

When reading the profiles, there are a number of ethical considerations that need to be taken into account:

1. First, do not use them with an intention to validate any work; rather read them to understand another perspective, to help understand the state of affairs better. This could help with reframing situations and problems, and can shine a light on aspects of issues that haven’t come up before in other ways.

The playback books (which aggregate the data from the profiles - identify segments of people and opportunity areas) show what could be, not just what is. They spark alternatives, and identify opportunities for action. The information in the profiles and playback books can point to the need for further research, and can offer insights that are relevant to making Edmonton a better city, more inclusive and compassionate, as well as one with more effective services that lead to better outcomes.

2. Adopt an attitude of curiosity and non-judgement - be aware of your own reactions and assumptions. Readers should be trying to understand another perspective, and be aware of their own biases when interpreting the stories. This is important because concepts like wellbeing are especially shaped by worldview and perspective. What it means to live well is shaped by our cultural, spiritual, linguistic and philosophical frames.

3. The stories ultimately belong to the people sharing them. — They have chosen to share them with us. They hope that sharing their stories will help decision makers to develop better practices and better policies.

In reading these stories, you will catch glimpses of different ways of living, surviving, thriving, caring, supporting, organizing, and governing. They might go against the grain of dominant norms and narratives. They might challenge what you think you know about a given situation. As you read, consider who the dominant norms and narratives serve, and consider how we can activate the gifts and strengths of those who are often labelled as vulnerable.

Resources

Want to know more about urban wellbeing, and related topics? Here are some resources that inspire our thinking and learning.