Co-creating Dialect Research Outputs with Public Users

Project overview

As part of the wider Dialect and Heritage Project (DHP) based in the School of English, Professor Fiona Douglas, Dr Kerri-Ann Butcher and Kathleen McGrath explored how dialect research outputs can be co-created, presented and shared with members of the public to maximise their relevance, accessibility and impact.  

Activities

Between March and April 2025, the team delivered four engagement workshops at the Dales Countryside Museum, attended by eight volunteer participants aged between 25 and 96. The workshops brought together people with diverse educational backgrounds and life experiences, most of whom were engaging with university research for the first time. Participants worked with the research team to review and discuss a range of draft outputs, including digital stories, maps, animations and other data visualisations, considering their clarity, appeal, trustworthiness and usefulness for public audiences.  

Impact

The workshops created space for participants not just to learn more about local dialects and heritage, but to share their own knowledge and to develop new skills. “I realised that dialect is still alive in the Yorkshire Dales,” one participant said. “I learned that many words in the area date from centuries ago and was particularly interested to hear that Norse words are still widely used. I found it useful to mention my own dialect words to help stimulate contributors’ thoughts.” Others valued the opportunity to contribute their own professional expertise: “I have interviewed lots of people in my former job as journalist and felt I could help others with some of the skills needed." 

All participants reported developing new skills, feeling proud of their local dialect heritage, and enjoying the experience. One described it as “enjoyable, creative and informative at the same time,” while another highlighted the social value of “meeting amazing people and sharing in their fascinating stories and lives.” Similarly, the project team valued the opportunity to consult with end-users, gaining invaluable insights that directly informed the refinement of Dialect and Heritage Project outputs, particularly around data visualisation for public audiences. The project has also shaped follow-on plans, including a major National Lottery Heritage Fund application, and established a strong foundation for future co-research and public engagement activity with museum and community partners. 

Project team

Professor Fiona Douglas (School of English) 

Dr Kerri-Ann Butcher (School of English)

Kathleen McGrath (School of English) 

The Dales Countryside Museum