Part of the ESME : Resources for Sense-able Conversations Pack.
Visual Inquiry involves the use of generic images as a way in which to open up conversation. Research has shown that the sharing generated through the use of images can be more detailed than occurs when only verbal means are used. The use of the Visual Inquiry method can help to build connection between people, as they share in real and meaningful ways, while staying safe and only sharing what they feel comfortable with. Other benefits to using this method are that the images can evoke ideas, thoughts and feelings that the person participating was previously unaware of themselves. Therefore, the learning generated can be new both for the person picking the image and those who are listening to what they share.
The images are laid out for participant/s to be able to view them all, this may be on a floor or table, and the participant/s are invited to pick one or more images from the selection. The facilitator may want to highlight that as the person is sharing from their own experience there can be no wrong answer.
The facilitator poses a 'stem question', An example of a stem question would be the facilitator inviting the participant/s to 'select an image which sums up what it feels like to work here'.
In keeping with a collaborative approach when using Visual Inquiry, it is a good idea that as far as possible the facilitator also selects and shares on an image.
The participant/s are then invited in turn to share why they choose their particular image.
At start of a meeting as a way of helping people to introduce themselves
To inquire about a particular topic e.g. asking students to describe what being on a new placement feels like
During mentorship/ supervision/ appraisal meetings
At the end of a discussion to help people share on how they felt the discussion went
Resources you may need include a pack of visual image cards.
All the resources in the ESME: Resources for Sense-Able Conversations are licensed under Creative Commons BY 4.0. This means that those using the resource can copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format and adapt, transform, and build upon the material. Further details about the licence can be found on Creative Commons.
We would like to encourage you to have a look, take a light-hearted approach to giving them a go and notice what happens in the conversations when you try them out.
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