Research Methods

Question 1

What is Participatory Action Research?

Answer 1

A critical approach to research and knowledge production and a bottom-up approach to social change.

Question 2

Who, Why and How does PAR work?

Answer 2

Who? Communities and populations that have been exploited and oppressed
Why? Address the specific concerns of the community and fundamental causes of oppression, and aiming to achieve positive change.
How? A process of research, education and action with all participants contributing unique skills and can learn and transform.

Question 3

Aims of Photovoice

Answer 3

1. Enable people to record and represent their community’s strengths and concerns
2. Promote critical dialogue and knowledge
3. Reach policy makers

Question 4

Photovoice structure

Answer 4

Training –> Research, documentary + Discussions –> Action, advocacy and understanding community and empowerment.

Question 5

Elements of Photovoice

Answer 5

Designing/planning –> Photography training –> Critical discussion groups –> Fieldwork –> Exhibitions/publications

Question 6

Disadvantages of Photovoice

Answer 6

1. Participation can be risky
2. Researchers can still have final say (power dynamic issues)
3. Large amount of data that is difficult to analyse
4. Research needs to be funded