Leveraging an Arts-Based Approach to Foster Engagement, Nurture Kindness, and Prevent Violence

TL;DR

This study explores how arts-based approaches can promote kindness, prevent violence, and engage communities through interviews and thematic analysis.

Contribution

The paper introduces a model framework and practical strategies for using arts to foster civic learning and prevent violence.

Findings

Arts-based approaches were found to promote kindness and prevent violence through artistic expression.

Community partners highlighted the inherent benefits of the arts in fostering civic responsibility.

Thematic analysis revealed practical strategies for effective collaboration with community partners.

Abstract

Drawing from the insights of community partners, this study explored the roles and benefits of arts-based approaches to foster civic learning, critical media literacy, and community engagement. It also uncovered approaches to promote kindness, prevent violence, and combat online extremism, offering insights into strategies that may enhance community engagement and create a positive impact. We presented our model framework, a detailed case study of our project, and qualitative methods incorporating 15 interviews with our community partners to capture a broad range of perspectives and experiences. Interviewees were community partners who collaborated with our project in organizing events and activities using an arts-based approach to promote kindness, awareness, and violence prevention since the inception of the project. Data were analyzed using thematic data analysis. We categorized the community partners’ responses into four key themes: (1) the inherent benefits of the arts, (2) promoting kindness and preventing violence through artistic expression, (3) teaching civic responsibility through the arts, and (4) practical strategies for collaborating with community partners. The practice implications and lessons learned were discussed.

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