Photovoice method and activity

 

What is the photovoice method?

Photovoice is an established method developed initially by health promotion researchers (Wang and Burris, 1997). By utilising photographs taken and selected by participants, respondents can reflect upon and explore the reasons, emotions and experiences that have guided their chosen images.

The benefits of photovoice

1. Increased Empowerment: Photovoice helps to amplify the voices of those who may not have access to more traditional forms of communication. It provides an opportunity to express personal experiences and stories in a powerful and meaningful way. 2. Increased Awareness: Photovoice can help to raise awareness of issues that may not be widely known or addressed. It can provide a visual representation of stories and struggles, which can lead to greater understanding and empathy. 3. Enhanced Reflection: Participants in photovoice projects can gain a greater understanding of their own experiences and beliefs, as they reflect on the images they have created. This can lead to greater self-awareness and growth. 4. Increased Engagement: Photovoice can help to engage people in the research process, creating a more participatory and collaborative approach. It can also help to break down the barriers between researchers and participants. 5. Improved Documentation: Photovoice provides visual documentation of stories, experiences, and changes over time. This can be invaluable in research and evaluation.

Instructions: take photos that represent power, inclusion, and human rights 1. Explain the concept: Before taking photos of things that represent power, inclusion, and human rights. Make sure participants understand the concepts and possible representations. 2. Give examples: Provide examples that fit the concept for example examples of signs or representations that can have personal meaning, 1. Tattoos 2. Family Heirlooms 3. Pictures 4. Jewelry 5. Quotes 6. Symbols 7. Mementos 8. Clothing 9. Artwork 10. Music 3. Ask for creative ideas: Ask your subjects to come up with creative ideas for photos that represent power, inclusion, and human rights. Encourage them to think outside the box and come up with unique visual metaphors. 6. Listen and discuss: Listen and discuss the photographs as a group with consideration of 'personal', 'societal', and 'global' 'signs' or representations.