Model Research Retreat - Interactive generation of research questions from the synthesis of knowledge, personal experience and shared experience

Abstract

Exchange of knowledge in the scientific community essentially takes place through reports in scientific journals as well as personal communication and scientific conferences. However in the field of applied consciousness sciences this model seems to be insufficient due to the fact that subjective and intersubjective experiences are essential objects of scientific exploration. Formulation of novel and relevant research questions requires a creative exchange between practitioners and scientists. Therefore, the Research Center of Applied Consciousness Sciences organized a so called “research retreat” entitled “rhythm, sound, and consciousness”. Besides imparting theoretical background of the field, essential contents of this retreat included individual and collective experiences, discussions and exchange of individual experiences, and common quantitative experiments. The result was a spirited intercommunion and a common passion for the research area.