Teaching with CHAZOP: A Structured, Collaborative Creative Writing Workshop Process Informed by Software Engineering

Citation

Gibb L (2023) Teaching with CHAZOP: A Structured, Collaborative Creative Writing Workshop Process Informed by Software Engineering. Menon C (Project Member) EACWP, Madrid, 04.05.2023-06.05.2023.

Abstract
Although novice writers and those without a formal educational background in the discipline can demonstrate significant creative and collaborative ability, they may also find it challenging to systematically identify and address opportunities for improvement in their work. This contrasts with software engineers, whose practice prioritises systematic, logic-based processes, but who may typically struggle to fully engage with processes which are specifically geared towards creative collaboration. In this paper we propose CHAZOP, a structured workshopping methodology for creative writing informed by the engineering process of HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study). I describe how CHAZOP can allow beginner writers to engage in facilitated workshop sessions to identify opportunities for improvement in completed work or to assess ways to progress incomplete drafts. I present findings from a joint AHRC funded pilot project.

Keywords
CHAZOP; HAZOP; Creative writing pedagogy