Module 6: Knowledge mobilization and systems change
How can expressive arts contribute to long-term change for newcomers experiencing gender-based domestic violence (GBDV)?
This module explores how expressive arts can move beyond individual programs to support long-term healing, community well-being, equity, and systems change. Drawing on facilitator reflections, participant experiences, evaluation findings, and insights from the HEAL Project – Hubs of Expressive Arts for Life, participants will explore how expressive arts can strengthen emotional well-being, social connection, confidence, community belonging, systems navigation, and collaboration across healthcare, settlement, and gender-based violence services. The module also examines what is needed to sustain expressive arts approaches beyond short-term projects, including organizational support, cross-sector partnerships, culturally grounded practices, and trauma- and violence-informed approaches.
What you will learn?
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Understand how evaluation can be approached within expressive arts and trauma-informed programming
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Identify creative, participatory, and culturally responsive approaches to measuring impact and participant experience
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Explore ethical principles, facilitator roles, and reflective practices that support meaningful and participant-centred evaluation
Sections in this module
This module is organized into four sections. Each section explores a key concept or approach that supports the overall learning outcomes.
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Evaluation in expressive arts programming
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Measuring change over time
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Ethical, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive evaluation
- Artful response and additional resources
How does the course work?
Creative Pathways is a self-directed course made up of 6 modules. The modules will engage you in several topics related to GBDV and the arts, through participatory activities, videos, and additional resources. Each module will take approximately 1 – 1.5 hrs. to complete.
Acknowledgements
Creative Pathways is funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to prevent and address family violence in partnership with six implementation agencies including Arab Community Centre of Toronto (ACCT), Canadian-Bangladeshi Community Services (BCS), Toronto Neighbourhood Group (TNG), Sherbourne Health, Art + Health, and the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic. Curriculum developed by the HEAL project team.
Questions? Contact: arts@accessalliance.ca
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