About the Project
The Art and Wellbeing in Education (AWE) project is an innovative initiative that integrates creative workshops into key elements of university curricula. Designed to foster cultural change and enhance student wellbeing, AWE has been successfully tested in diverse fields such as healthcare, business studies, social work, and the creative industries.
Our Approach
Experiential Collective Learning
We engage students through immersive, hands-on activities that promote deep understanding and collaboration.
Creative Techniques
- Visualisation: Guided imagery exercises to enhance mental clarity and focus.
- Image Making: Artistic creation to express ideas and emotions visually.
- Embodied Exercises: Movement and physical activities that connect mind and body.
- Other Innovative Methods: A variety of techniques tailored to specific learning outcomes and student needs.
Led by Trained Wellbeing Professionals
Our workshops are supported by qualified experts in arts therapies and mental health, ensuring a supportive and enriching experience.
Objectives
Enhance Learning Outcomes:
By integrating creative methods, we aim to deepen students’ engagement with course material.
Promote Wellbeing:
We provide tools and strategies to help students manage stress, build resilience, and improve overall mental health.
Foster Community:
Encouraging collaboration and mutual support among students and staff.
Why Participate in the AWE Project?
For Students
- Enrich Your Learning Experience: Engage with course content in new and meaningful ways.
- Develop New Skills: Enhance creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
- Improve Wellbeing: Learn practical techniques to manage stress and support mental health.
- Build Connections: Collaborate with peers and create a supportive community.
For Module Leaders and Lecturers
- Enhance Curriculum Delivery: Integrate innovative teaching methods that align with learning objectives.
- Support Student Wellbeing: Address wellbeing proactively within your modules.
- Collaborative Research Opportunities: Participate in a pioneering research project with potential for publication and professional development.
- Professional Development: Gain insights into creative pedagogies and wellbeing practices.
What Does an AWE Workshop Look Like?
Our workshops are carefully crafted to align with module content while providing an engaging and supportive environment.
Key Components
Educational Insights
Discuss the link between education and wellbeing, contextualised for each module.
Creative Exploration
Engage in activities such as:
- Visualisation Exercises: Enhance focus and goal-setting.
- Art Making: Use various art forms to explore concepts.
- Embodied Team Exercises: Promote teamwork and self-awareness.
Reflective Dialogue
Create a safe space for students to share experiences and perspectives.
Resource Sharing
Provide access to support services, helpful links, and additional materials.
Fields of Implementation
The AWE project has been successfully integrated into various disciplines:
- Healthcare: Supporting medical and nursing students in managing the demands of their studies.
- Business Studies: Enhancing creativity and ethical awareness among future business leaders.
- Social Work: Building resilience and empathy in students preparing for challenging careers.
- Creative Industries: Fostering innovation and collaboration in artistic fields.
Success Stories
“Participating in the AWE workshop helped me see my studies from a new perspective. The creative exercises made learning fun and meaningful.” – Alex, Business Student
“The embodied exercises allowed me to connect with my peers in a way I hadn’t before. It was refreshing and energizing.” – Samira, Social Work Student
“Integrating AWE workshops into my module revitalized the classroom dynamics. Students were more engaged and open to exploring complex topics.” – Dr. Lee, Healthcare Lecturer
“The project provided valuable tools to support my students’ wellbeing, which is essential in today’s academic environment.” – Prof. Davis, Creative Industries