Proposal Title
Photo-Voice as a Reflexive Method
Presentation Type
Regular Presentation
Location
OM 3612
Start Date
19-2-2019 9:35 AM
End Date
19-2-2019 10:15 AM
Proposal Abstract
Photo-voice is rapidly becoming a popular and accepted research method in the social sciences (Holm, 2008). Developed by Wang and Burris (1994), Photo-voice is a participatory method through which research participants identify and represent their lived experiences and contexts through the use of photo imagery. Reavey and Johnson (2013) claim that visual methods “hand over agency to the participants (p. 302). Participants are provided cameras or electronic devices to document images that resonate for them (consciously or unconsciously). Participants then share verbal associations about the photos in order to communicate feelings, ideas, and information about personal and community relationships, issues and events (Vaughan, Forbes, & Howell, 2008). Vaughan at al. state, Using photos in this manner can provide a vehicle for the presentation of participants’ lived experiences as defined by themselves…Such an approach allows for participants’ voices to truly be heard and for a deeper understanding of how people make meaning in their lives rather than imposing a research objective upon a community often with predetermined assumptions and outcomes. (para. 1) Photo-voice draws from work in critical consciousness, feminism, and documentary photography (Wang & Burris, 1994). The process of Photo-voice allows participants to frame and define important issues and strengths through the use of imagery and personal reflection. Miller (2010) states, Photo-voice, as a participatory method, is able to evoke context-rich data which may allow us to see cultural norms and issues that may otherwise be missed through use of a survey. The TPC workshop will illustrate how Photo-voice can be used as a reflexive method for data gathering and promoting dialogue and knowledge about important issues through the discussion generated by the participants’ photos. Photo-voice is particularly effective for reflexive practice in the helping professions, as such as nursing, education, social work, and Human Services.
Photo-Voice as a Reflexive Method
OM 3612
Photo-voice is rapidly becoming a popular and accepted research method in the social sciences (Holm, 2008). Developed by Wang and Burris (1994), Photo-voice is a participatory method through which research participants identify and represent their lived experiences and contexts through the use of photo imagery. Reavey and Johnson (2013) claim that visual methods “hand over agency to the participants (p. 302). Participants are provided cameras or electronic devices to document images that resonate for them (consciously or unconsciously). Participants then share verbal associations about the photos in order to communicate feelings, ideas, and information about personal and community relationships, issues and events (Vaughan, Forbes, & Howell, 2008). Vaughan at al. state, Using photos in this manner can provide a vehicle for the presentation of participants’ lived experiences as defined by themselves…Such an approach allows for participants’ voices to truly be heard and for a deeper understanding of how people make meaning in their lives rather than imposing a research objective upon a community often with predetermined assumptions and outcomes. (para. 1) Photo-voice draws from work in critical consciousness, feminism, and documentary photography (Wang & Burris, 1994). The process of Photo-voice allows participants to frame and define important issues and strengths through the use of imagery and personal reflection. Miller (2010) states, Photo-voice, as a participatory method, is able to evoke context-rich data which may allow us to see cultural norms and issues that may otherwise be missed through use of a survey. The TPC workshop will illustrate how Photo-voice can be used as a reflexive method for data gathering and promoting dialogue and knowledge about important issues through the discussion generated by the participants’ photos. Photo-voice is particularly effective for reflexive practice in the helping professions, as such as nursing, education, social work, and Human Services.
Statement
The theme, "Adventures in Teaching", implies that educators at TRU are seeking innovative methods to advance their practices. Arts-infused and arts-based teaching and research methods are gaining attention within the social sciences and are quickly becoming recognized as means to work with community-based organizations so that marginalized groups/diverse populations may represent their voice in meaningful ways.