Building community among adult education tutors through an arts-based learning community of practice

Karen Bunyan

doi:10.3384/rela.2000-7426.6305

Authors

Karen Bunyan South East Technological University https://orcid.org/0009-0005-8651-3003

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3384/rela.2000-7426.6305

Keywords:

arts-based learning, creativity, communitiies of practice, affective learning, transformative learning

Abstract

This paper examines the role of arts‑based learning within a community of practice (CoP) of adult educators from my perspective as an insider practitioner‑researcher and a member of the CoP. Drawing on the concept of visual culture learning communities I explore how arts-based practices can be sustained within the constraints of increasingly standardised education systems. Using an interpretivist approach, I examine adult education tutors’ experiences of participating in an Arts-Based Learning CoP. My findings show that engaging in a CoP enhances the well-being and professional growth of tutors, with transformative potential for both educators and their students. I acknowledge the limitations of the research, including insider-outsider dynamics within the CoP and I consider the possibility that visual arts may not resonate equally with all learners. Nonetheless, the findings highlight the potential of arts‑based approaches to strengthen relational, reflective, and supportive professional communities in adult education.

Author Biography

Karen Bunyan, South East Technological University

Karen Bunyan is a lecturer in the Literacy Development Centre at South East Technological University (SETU). She teaches pedagogy and practical teaching skills to practitioners in further and adult education. She is interested in exploring creative and arts-based teaching methods and encourages tutors to be creative in their teaching. Karen has recently established a Community of Practice where practitioners can share their innovative approaches and regularly runs workshops in arts-based methods for tutors.

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