Life writing & change: A story-exchange community-building experience
Exploring how reflective storytelling can help students build connections, foster empathy and navigate change
Brooke Pratt and Suzanne Rintoul, School of Interdisciplinary Studies
About the project
This project examined the role of life writing and storytelling as tools for self-reflection and community building. Building on an earlier Conestoga New & Emerging Researcher Grant (CNERG) project, the research focused on helping students explore personal experiences and strengthen connections with others through creative and reflective writing practices.
The challenge
Students face a wide range of personal, academic and social changes throughout their educational journey. The project sought to explore how storytelling and reflective writing could support well-being, encourage meaningful dialogue and help students better understand their own experiences and those of others.
Approach
- Built on previous research examining community-engaged writing practices
- Explored best practices in reflective and community-based storytelling
- Participated in professional development and knowledge-sharing activities related to community writing
- Delivered workshops focused on self-reflection, storytelling and creative expression
- Encouraged students to share experiences of change through written, audio and visual formats
Results
- Engaged students in reflective storytelling and community-building activities
- Demonstrated the value of life writing as a tool for self-expression and connection
- Supported the creation of digital stories incorporating written, audio and visual elements
- Encouraged dialogue and understanding among participants
- Expanded knowledge of community-based writing practices within post-secondary education
Why it matters
- Supports student well-being through reflection and creative expression
- Encourages empathy, connection and community engagement
- Provides students with tools to process change and uncertainty
- Demonstrates the value of storytelling in educational settings
- Contributes to research on community-based learning and student success
Get started with your next project
This project draws on research supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.
