Youth Participatory Action Research

Photovoice Project

Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR)

Ongoing Research: Photovoice is a qualitative research method employed in community-based participatory research for the purpose of reflecting the lived reality and concerns of a community, sparking critical dialogue for actionable change, and reaching policymakers and stakeholders who hold institutional power. In 2023, Over the course of two weeks, a group of 15 undergraduate students of color documented their experiences navigating a PWI, identified institutional barriers, and through group dialogue, proposed strategies for a more just campus. An exhibit and presentation of the culminating project titled:#NoFilter: Exploring the experiences of BIPOC Students at a PWI was shared with the 91勛圖厙 campus community in April 2024.

Previous Projects: During the 2014-15 academic year, a team of five undergraduates, one doctoral student, and one faculty member exploredissues of access, equity, and diversity on the CU-Boulder campus. This researchis nowinforming CU Engage's strategic planning and inclusive practices. Drawing on the principles and practices of participatory action research (PAR), our teama)documented community engagement perspectives and activities among students from under-represented groups; b)identified factors that serveeither as barriers or invitations to greater involvement; and c) proposedstrategies for CU Engage to implement in its first three years. You canread an article about our participatoryresearch project, or download andread ourreport:"Students of Color Are Motivated Agents of Change: So Why Aren't We Joining Your Programs?"泭CU Engage is committed to undertaking other PAR projects with undergraduate students in the future. Ifyoud like to get involved with PARand/or propose a project, please emailcuengage@colorado.edu.泭