Practice-oriented research describes a research based-approach to dealing with difficult heritage sites in which various forms of research are conducted before and during commemorative activities happening at the site. This includes archival and historical research, non-invasive field research, social research, audience research and more. This is not a new approach in and of itself, however while archival and historical research might be treated as an obvious part of any commemorative initiative and non-invasive research is often required in order to conduct any construction works on a difficult heritage site, this is not always the case for other forms of research, especially social and audience research. Practice-oriented research describes an approach in which various forms of research, not limited to those focused on the history of the site, are conducted to support successful commemorative processes, including studies of social resonance and the needs of various stakeholders.
photography Steven D. Reece