by Larissa Petryca, on 20 September 2024 13:01:11 CEST
Lucie Rivera, Programme Leader for PCU’s School of Business blended programmes, has been awarded her doctorate in Business Administration from Teesside University.
Investigating Original Archaeological Restoration Approaches
Lucie's research focused on the decision-making processes behind innovative restoration of archaeological cultural heritage, examined within the broader context of the cultural economy.
Her study centred on the restoration of the Parco Archeologico di Siponto in Italy, whose innovative approach deviated from traditional practices. She sought to uncover the factors driving this groundbreaking restoration. Additionally, her research explored how the site can sustain its momentum and continue to provide lasting cultural and economic value to both local and regional communities.
An extensive literature review in Lucie’s research considered the specific decision-making processes and factors used in the cultural heritage sector with a focus on those which could contribute to the cultural and economic valorisation. The data emerging from her research study was analysed using a new phenomenological methodology - the Trans-Positional Cognition Approach (TPCA).
Decision Making Triggers determined by Trans-Positional Cognition Approach (TPCA)
The analysis yielded triggers which are important in decision making when valorising cultural heritage and included; ‘Enhancement through innovation’, ‘Management and communication imperatives’, ‘Value-based heritage conservation’, ‘Restoration process and regulatory compliance’, ‘Strategic intuition practices’, ‘Small group decision making’, ‘Emergence of public participation and co-creation’, ‘Intervention terminology development’ and ‘Potential for socioeconomic impact’. These findings deemed "Decision–making triggers for the economic and cultural valorisation of the archaeological site" represented the essence of the study. The outcome provided a nuanced understanding of decision-making practices at archaeological sites, highlighting processes influenced by economic and cultural valorisation triggers.
The Long-Term Impact and Outcomes
Lucie’s study has contributed to the body of decision-making literature and practice in the field by employing and extending the ‘Critical Process of Restoration and Conservation’ model to better explain the research findings. Her study also adds to a novel model, named ‘Decision-making in Innovative Archaeological Site Restoration,’ which adds an interactive tool for decision making practice when considering innovative approaches, leading to positive impact on local and regional scale economies.
The practical implications of her research highlight the need to reassess existing cultural heritage job designs. This includes incorporating strategic intuition practices, emphasising public participation and co-creation methodologies, fostering and embedding heritage values, and developing new technical terminology for innovative interventions.
The results of the study are useful for cultural heritage professionals, policy makers, and the leadership of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism in Italy when considering innovative restoration projects. The decision-making model for Innovative Archaeological Site Restoration could also be applied in different cultural settings, with the understanding that sites should be of small scale. The effectiveness of the model will largely depend on the local regulatory systems, cultural values, beliefs, and existing archaeological restoration practices. These factors significantly influence the decision-making processes and the potential triggers for restoration efforts.
PCU proudly congratulates Dr Lucie Rivera on her outstanding achievement in earning her doctorate. Her accomplishment is a testament to hard work, dedication, and significant contributions to her field of research.
