Welcome to Griffith Open

Griffith Open collects, preserves and makes freely available research publications by Griffith College staff and learners. These can include, but are not limited to, theses, peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, working papers and conference papers, professional presentations, exhibitions and teaching resources. Where material has already been published it is made available subject to the open-access policies of the original publishers. This service is maintained by Griffith College Library.

Recent Submissions

Do you want to believe?
(Griffith College, 2025) Gromozdina, Margarita; Kilroy, Della
Since the dawn of human civilization, people have tended to explain the unexplainable by seeing nonexistent images and seeking help from higher powers. This dissertation aims to complement the radio documentary Do you want to believe? by explaining the scientific and historical aspects of the phenomenon of belief in the paranormal and the reasons for people’s interest in extrasensory perception. This written report also addresses the psychological prerequisites involved in the formation of belief in the supernatural and analyzes its manifestations across different historical periods. It examines the probable reasons for the continued existence of this belief in the modern world. Additionally, the report presents an analysis of how the topic of extrasensory practices is represented in other radio documentaries, podcasts, and TV shows. The dissertation also covers the creative and technical process of producing the radio documentary Do you want to believe? —from defining the topic and format to sound design decisions and final editing.
Buy or Rent: A Photo Book Showcasing How Reframing Fashion Editorial Photography Can Affect the Consumer and Change the Way They Consume
(Griffith College, 2025) Gilligan, Lorna; Neiland, Mark
This practice-based dissertation explores how the visual framing of fashion in women’s magazines influences consumer behaviour, particularly in relation to fast fashion and the rising alternatives of rental and resale. While sustainable fashion is gaining traction in editorial discourse, it remains largely absent from fashion photography, a key driver when it comes to consumption. Through critical analysis and creative practice, this project investigates whether changing how fashion is visually presented can encourage more conscious forms of consumption. The creative outcome, Buy or Rent, is a photo book styled and shot using only second-hand or rented clothing. Drawing on the visual language of high fashion and women's weeklies, the book reimagines sustainable fashion as stylish, expressive, and culturally relevant. It positions editorial photography not as a neutral backdrop, but as a powerful cultural tool capable of shaping peoples values and behaviours. This research finds that weekly fashion media often reinforces fast fashion mindsets through product-led styling and commercialised tone. The project argues that more intentional visual strategies could help normalise sustainable fashion in mainstream media, and offers a creative way of moving forward that challenges how value and desirability are constructed in fashion editorial spaces. Good.
Love... in Translation
(Griffith College, 2025) Teixeira Marques, Karina
This dissertation investigates the intricate dynamics of intercultural relationships specifically within immigrant communities, moving beyond a general understanding to focus on the unique contexts and challenges faced by these populations. The primary objective is to examine how cultural differences manifest in interpersonal relationships, and to explore the specific challenges and rewards inherent in navigating multicultural relationships for immigrants. This research will delve into key factors influencing the formation and maintenance of these relationships, including an analysis of personal challenges such as xenophobia, social challenges, and the significant undertaking of moving to a foreign country. By focusing on these specific experiences, the study aims to illuminate the multifaceted impact of intercultural relationships on both individual well-being and the broader immigrant community. The research will specifically explore how these experiences shape their understanding of identity and belonging, providing a framework for understanding the complexities of intercultural interactions within immigrant contexts. Participants will be encouraged to share openly about the challenges and rewards of navigating different cultural norms, including personal anecdotes about cultural faux pas or moments of pride in their heritage. Furthermore, the study will explore the nuances of cultural exchange, emphasizing the importance of consent and strategies to avoid cultural appropriation. Ultimately, this dissertation seeks to contribute a nuanced and context-specific understanding of intercultural relationships within immigrant communities. The findings are expected to inform support systems for immigrants, enhance cultural competency programs, and foster a more inclusive societal understanding of the unique experiences of intercultural couples within diverse immigrant populations. This work aims to provide a platform for unheard voices, challenging existing narratives and promoting a deeper appreciation for the resilience and adaptability demonstrated by immigrants in navigating the complexities of love across cultures.
Listen and Learn; How Irish Radio Has Represented Irish Female Artists. A Narrative Podcast Episode that Delves into the Systemic Treatment from Irish Radio Towards Irish Female Artists.
(Griffith College, 2025) Cooke, Emma Jane; Lalor, Francesca
I intend to convey the frustration and personal, lived experiences of working women in the industry. From journalists, to radio hosts, to musicians, the podcast is diverse in a way that it tells the story from multiple points of view. Digging deeper from this surface level issue of radio play, it transports listeners who may not even listen to radio, to a point where the exposure of this systemic issue is uncovered with the help of female voices. The podcast is accessible to any listener with a knowledge of music or Irish society, and for those keen to learn more. A podcast format breaches formality and censorship, allowing for raw and honest discussions, one on one, between a woman entering the industry and a woman who has personal experiences that they are willing to share. The Why Not Her? Initiative set up by Linda Coogan Byrne is a constant reference throughout this journey. With the continued intervention of Linda and her team, the Irish public will no longer be able to simultaneously ignore women in music
“For a Kid Like Me”: A Radio Documentary about the Impact of Autistic Representation in Film A Conversation about the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
(Griffith College, 2025) Sallent Fortes, Aina; Lalor, Francesca
This radio documentary examines the state of autism representation in media, specifically in Hollywood films. It contains a content analysis of twelve films, as well as interviews and opinions from autistic people and experts. The current depictions of autism on film are lacking in diversity and accuracy, oftentimes leading to misinformed perceptions of autism. This misinformed view results in a lack of diagnoses for people who do not conform to a male, white, heteronormative stereotype and people with different speech and intellectual abilities. Autistic people who are not savants with scientific special interests are also severely underrepresented in the media analysed. The interviews carried out add to the notion that a plural and diverse representation of autism in media can aid in the process of autism acceptance (rather than mere awareness) and improve the quality of life of ASD individuals of all kinds. The resulting documentary also highlights the reality that autism is not always visible and how that impacts mental health. To lead ASD people to the support they require, the documentary focuses on the lived experience of autism and how it compares to outward expression. Drawing on the “nothing about us without us” movement, this dissertation project concludes that autistic people should be involved in the creative process of narratives about autism.