I will focus on the application of the Saunders Research Onion research model to my ‘The Box’ project and how it has inspired and inspired me to reflect on it. This model not only enhanced the multidimensionality of my research approach, but also enabled me to gain a more comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the project.
Firstly, I will delve into how the philosophical perspectives of Symbolic Interactionism and Phenomenology have been applied to my ‘The Box’ project. These two theoretical frameworks not only help to analyse the research questions in greater detail, but also provide new directions for subsequent interventions.
1. Application of Symbolic Interaction Theory in “The Box” Project
Cultural Symbols and Body Image
In Chinese culture, there are many cultural symbols and standards about women’s bodies, such as “thinness is beauty” or “white wealth”. These cultural symbols are spread and reinforced through various channels such as social media, advertisements, films, and family.
The Role of Social Interaction
Women interpret these cultural symbols through their interactions with others (including family, friends, social groups, media, etc.) and form opinions and attitudes about their own bodies accordingly. For example, likes and comments received on social media may be interpreted as approval or disapproval of a certain body image.
Self-perception and Image Construction (Self-perception and Image Construction)
In their interactions with these symbols and others, women perceive and evaluate their body image, which in turn affects their self-esteem and mental health.
2. Phenomenology in the ‘The Box’ project
Recording and Analysing Daily Life
I plan to analyse my target audience by recording their daily lives to gain a deeper understanding of how they perceive and evaluate their bodies. This also provides me with new methods of intervention.
Secondly, the focus is on the research strategies, especially the application of Action Research (AR) and Case Study Research (CSR). These research methods not only enhanced the depth of the project, but also provided diverse avenues for data collection and analysis.
1. Application of Action Research in “The Box” Project
Underlying Principles and Implementation
Action research focuses on solving real problems and improving practice. All my activities, including social media interactions and artwork presentations, followed this model. In this way, I was able to adjust my project strategy in real time and keep a close eye on the dynamic development of the research question.
Feedback and Adjustment
Action research allowed me to make immediate adjustments based on the data and feedback I collected. For example, feedback obtained through social media platforms can be used to amend or optimise subsequent interventions.
2. Application of Case Study in “The Box” Project
Selection and Analysis
In the case study, I plan to select a few representative women for in-depth research and analysis. Doing so will help me to understand and explain the wider social phenomenon from an individual perspective.
Depth and Limitations
Whilst case study research can provide in-depth insight, it has its limitations such as generalisability and extrapolation of data. However, combined with action research, the two approaches can complement each other and provide a more comprehensive analysis.
Overall, a multidimensional, strategic perspective provided by the Saunders Research Onion was used to deepen the understanding and implementation of the project themes. It not only outlines the insights gained from applying the model, but also reflects on its effectiveness in the context of the project.