'Personas' as a method for applying gender theory in Triple Helix constellations - experiences from two research projects

In focus in this paper is the use of the Persona method for applying gender theory in Triple Helix systems. Whereas such systems often are considered gender neutral, we in contrast emphasize the need for understanding the process of ‘doing gender’ within those constellations. The aim of this paper is to describe our experiences of developing Persona as a method for gender equality interventions within two Triple Helix constellations. The personas are fictional characters addressing issues and situations identified during initial mappings of the researched contexts. The method is used for communicating concerns, issues, needs and preferences with our participants. In our experience Persona is a useful method for visualizing identified situations and for a reframing of actors’ gender awareness. The Persona method contributes to talk beyond that of the “problematic women issue” and shows a way to unsettle gender constructions.

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