Abstract
M.Phil.
Organisational wellness is a relatively new concept. Although a few models can be found in the relevant literature, there is a lack of holistic models for the engineering field, or more specifically for the mechanical engineering employee within the power-generating industry.
The aim of the study was to develop an organisational wellness model for a company within the power-generation industry, by addressing the main research question: “What are the experiences and perceptions of five engineers on organisational wellness?” and the following sub-questions:
1. What events or incidents shaped the perceptions of these five engineers regarding organisational wellness?
2. What themes materialised from the stories and interviews?
3. Can any other organisational evidence be found in support of Sub-question 1?
4. Can stories provide the information that is needed for generating knowledge that can further the study of the concept of organisational wellness?
The stories of five engineers and their views on organisational wellness that were extracted from mostly unstructured interviews, were packaged unconventionally as a movie script, aiming at contributing to the pool of knowledge on organisational wellness by adding a new holistic model to the field of study. The study also explored an alternative application of arts-based research methodology, and broadened the relevant industry’s knowledge on the topic of organisational wellness.
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It is clear that members of the younger generations relate more easily to visual media like movies and documentaries. The dissertation was thus designed to inspire their creativity and thoughts about the subject matter, moving away from the exclusiveness of an academic audience.
I have created seven moments in time that reflect on different aspects of the dissertation, they are referred to as research moments.
The main focus, or first research moment, is the movie script entitled “Discovering Wellness” with behind-the-scenes moments, which could be viewed as stand-alone documentaries and movies, nevertheless contributing to the overall research moment.
The second moment focuses on relevant literature on organisational wellness, while the third moment encapsulates the qualitative approach, as well as the epistemological and oncological aspects of the research. Moments four to seven individually contain behind-the-scenes information that contribute to the various perspectives of the research setting in order to provide the reader with an in-depth view of the context. Music, photographs and art were also added for the purpose of directing the reader or audience member’s attention to the mind-set and perspective of the writer, as well as to provide richer information on the research setting or context.
Themes materialised in the stories collected through the unstructured interview process, which enabled the recommendation of a new model for the industry or field. It also compares favourably with themes and constructs that have been identified in other wellness models which are relevant to other industries or fields. In conclusion, the research is not finite, and the story does not come to a definite end, as it simply showcases a perception on a moment in time. If it stimulates further research, it will have fulfilled its purpose.
Key words: organisational wellness, holistic model, arts-based research, script writing, performatory art.