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Introduction to Autoethnography

Course
  • Duration: 3 sessions
  • Start: april 2027
  • Fee: € 430,-
  • Certificate
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How can you use lived experience in a scientifically rigorous way to deepen research and professional practice?

In this three-day course, you will be introduced to autoethnography: a qualitative research method that connects personal experiences to broader social, cultural and professional contexts.
You will learn about the theoretical and ethical foundations of autoethnography, explore different approaches, and, above all, put what you learn into practice. Through focused writing exercises, you will discover how to explore, analyse and meaningfully describe experiences.
The course therefore offers not only an in-depth introduction to a distinctive research method, but also strengthens your research, writing and reflective skills.
The course is organised by the onderzoeksgroep Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg (GGZ) at Leiden University of Applied Sciences and GGZ Rivierduinen, in collaboration with Prof. Jonathan Wyatt (University of Edinburgh), an internationally recognised expert in autoethnography, narrative research and relational inquiry.

Alke - former participant
An inspiring introduction to the art and ethics of autoethnography, which above all gave me the confidence to start writing myself.

Could this be for you?

The course is intended for lecturer-researchers, PhD candidates, mental health professionals and other professionals who want to use autoethnography in their research or professional practice.
No prior experience with autoethnography is required. However, we do expect an open and curious attitude, an interest in qualitative research, and a willingness to write and engage in critical reflection.
A master's-level academic or professional level is required for participation. The course is taught in English.
 

student schrijft met pen in schrift

What will you learn?

During the course, you will:

  • become familiar with the theoretical foundations of autoethnography;
  • explore different approaches and ethical issues;
  • learn to critically assess the quality of autoethnographic research;
  • examine how personal experiences are connected to social, cultural and professional contexts;
  • develop your own autoethnographic writing practice.
     
About the lecturer

Professor Jonathan Wyatt is a professor at the University of Edinburgh and founder and director of the Centre for Creative-Relational Inquiry (CCRI). Originally trained as a psychotherapist, he worked for many years in NHS mental health services.

His research and publications focus on autoethnography, creative and relational research methods, and arts-based research. He is particularly interested in connecting personal experience, professional practice and research.

Jonathan has made a significant international contribution to the development of autoethnography and creative research in healthcare and the social sciences. Through CCRI, he organises teaching, seminars and international events exploring embodied inquiry, dance, poetry and other creative research methods.

For several years, he has collaborated with Simona Karbouniaris on the development of postgraduate courses.

Apply your knowledge

On completion of this course, you will:

  • have a basic understanding of autoethnography as a research method, including its key foundations, theoretical frameworks and methodological principles;
  • be able to systematically connect personal experiences to broader social, cultural and professional contexts as part of your research;
  • be familiar with different forms of autoethnographic research;
  • be able to critically reflect on the potential and limitations of autoethnography within your own research practice;
  • have practised creative and reflexive methods for collecting, analysing and presenting autoethnographic material;
  • be able to formulate an initial autoethnographic research question or research design that fits your own research context.

Practical information

Duration and location

The course consists of three sessions from 10:00 to 16:00. The sessions take place at Leiden University of Applied Sciences.

Dates
  • 14 April 2027
  • 21 April 2027
  • 22 April 2027
    Subject to change.
Fee

€ 430,- excluding literature.

Admission

A master's degree or equivalent qualification is required. A good command of English, both spoken and written, is essential.

Algemene voorwaarden

Voor alle post-hbo opleidingen, cursussen en maatwerktrajecten gelden de algemene leverings- en annuleringsvoorwaarden van Hogeschool Leiden.