Thinking through drawing: an arts-based approach to trauma-informed pedagogy

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47408/jldhe.vi35.1302

Keywords:

trauma-informed, arts-based, workshops, trauma, pedagogy

Abstract

In this short paper, we explore the use of arts-based approaches in a trauma-informed pedagogy workshop for arts and humanities-based staff and students. For the workshops, we wanted to create a space for conversation to flow around the discussion of trauma in teaching and learning spaces, but one that was different to the ‘normal’ training workshop. By exploring mark-making and the free use of space inspired by the concept of ‘taking a line for a walk’, facilitators were able to explore difficult conversations in the classroom from the perspectives of both teaching staff and students, enabling participants to anonymously map their emotions and approaches while teaching or encountering moments of discomfort, challenging emotions, or trauma. We encourage colleagues to explore the possibilities of arts pedagogy to develop trauma-informed teaching.

Author Biographies

Emma Sheppard, Aberystwyth University

Emma Sheppard is a lecturer in sociology at Aberystwyth University, with an interest in trauma-informed approaches to research and teaching alongside her work in critical disability studies.

Tamar MacLellan, Coventry University

Tamar MacLellan is an artist-educator, and a PhD researcher at Coventry University, with an interest in interdisciplinary curriculum, art-school pedagogies and material thinking.

Erika Hawkes, Independent Researcher

Erika Hawkes is a teaching and learning developer with an interest in playful learning and creative practice.

References

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Published

27-03-2025

How to Cite

Sheppard, E., MacLellan, T., & Hawkes, E. (2025). Thinking through drawing: an arts-based approach to trauma-informed pedagogy. Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education, (35). https://doi.org/10.47408/jldhe.vi35.1302

Issue

No. 35 (2025): Special Edition, Liberating Learning

Section

Caring and compassionate pedagogies

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