Research Method: Hands-on engagement and learning with Ketso

21st May 2021

Funded Project:
Methods for Change

This ‘how to’ guide outlines Hands-on engagement and learning with Ketso used by Joanne Tippett from the University of Manchester and Fraser How, Ketso trainer and facilitator. The images and video were created in collaboration with Anna White @SneakyRaccoon.

Social scientists from the Methods for Change project came together to discuss the research methods they use and how methods create change in society. Drawing from the expertise in the Aspect network, they collaborated on a series of ‘how to’ guides which are step-by-step instructions and top-tips for adopting these methods in a range of sectors. Visual and multisensory pieces, including comics, illustrations, posters, booklets, short films and animations were then developed in collaboration with creatives to capture the key value of these research methods with a view to being able to convey them to a variety of audiences.

It is hoped that these resources will be useful for people in higher education, commercial, public sector, third sector and community organisations who are interested in experimenting with, and expanding professional skills in, the adoption of social science research methods.

Research Method: Hands-on engagement and learning with Ketso

Ketso is a physical tool for creative engagement and learning that promotes effective participation. This handson kit is designed to make it easier for anyone to run an effective and engaging workshop. The word ’ketso’ means ‘action’ in Lesotho, where Joanne Tippett invented the toolkit in the mid-1990s. Built around a metaphor of growth, the physical kit is based on the imagery of a tree, consisting of a trunk, branches and colourful leaves, which participants write on, then add to the felt workspace. This physical kit is animated with a series of questions and processes to share ideas. Ketso is a catalyst for discussion, enabling people to learn from each other and see different perspectives. Using the kit makes sure everyone’s voice is heard and helps to structure effective thinking.

Ketso can be used in a range of settings, from one-to-one and small group discussions, to large workshops with hundreds of people. This participatory toolkit has been used to engage stakeholders in contexts as diverse as the environment, health and wellbeing, community development, education and business. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this face to face toolkit has been adapted for use in in remote and hybrid settings. Each person has their own individual kit and develops ideas before discussing them in digital breakout rooms. Pictures of the completed Ketso felts can be shared via tools such as Padlet. Ketso Connect is also being used as a method to encourage student engagement and structure work on assignments in higher education.

You can find all the research outputs from the Methods for Change series here



Explore more

Members only

Train the Trainer 

This is an overview of the methods used to obtain relevant information for the Train the Trainer project.

Members only

Building on ABCs – Phase 3 Expansion: Creating Collaborations

Modular Knowledge-Exchange Training Course that gives insights into processes and requirements to developing business partnerships.

Should we spend more time talking about methods?

This blog by the Methods for Change team, illustrated by Jack Brougham, asks if we should spend more time talking about the methods we use as researchers. Drawing on a recent paper, we suggest that researchers need to articulate why methods matter in creating change to global challenges. We share three creative techniques that we have experimented with across the Methods for Change project that can encourage playful, reflective conversation about methods and their role in galvanising change.

Collaborative Zine Making Method

This ‘How-To’ Guide outlines the Collaborative Zine Making Method used by Professor Sarah Marie Hall from the University of Manchester and developed in collaboration with Inspire Women Oldham. The zine was also created in collaboration with Inspire Women Oldham.

Ready to join
our network?

The Aspect Network welcomes applications from like-minded organisations across the world to become members

Join us in contributing to solutions for the global challenges we encounter. Reach out to us today to discover how the Aspect Network can support you

Join us Member login