Visual Research Methods Research Articles

The role of arts-based methods in supporting safe and participatory research addressing sexual violence with young people

Background: The use of participatory visual methods in humanities, health, education and social science research to study ‘sensitive’ subject matter with children and young people is growing. Such approaches have been widely – though sometimes uncritically – celebrated for contributing to safe data elicitation, promoting participant influence and strengthening research dissemination and impact. Some authors have pointed to their political contributions – challenging the traditional politics of representation and fostering critical consciousness and thinking. Methods: This article explores these claims, reflecting on a study using creative and participatory methods to explore the concept of ‘resistance’ among young people affected by sexual violence. It begins by outlining the background, rationale and use of creative methods in the project, moving from plans to utilise ‘Photovoice’ methods to a more diverse and responsive set of creative methods. Findings: The paper presents evidence for the contribution of such methods to creating safety and fostering participation while developing new conceptual thinking among researchers and participants. Conclusion: In this project, the success of creative methods is rooted in the dynamics of what we term spaciousness and playfulness which support dialogical practice. These dynamics are critical to enabling a safe participatory culture that bridges divides between stakeholders of different status, identity and ownership.

Conceptualizing an asset-based framework for understanding women educator’s adaptive practices during crisis

Consistent, quality education is critical for children, parents, educators, and communities. However, diverse crises often upend the typical cadence of transmitting education, thereby increasing challenges in offering quality education. While women often provide leadership toward continuous educational services during crisis times, there is a literature gap highlighting their meaningful practices. Hence, this conceptual paper attempts to fill this gap by facilitating the articulation of the impactful work women transact during crisis times through the proposed Women’s Adaptive Practices in Crises (WAPIC) framework. We outline the dimensions of WAPIC, consisting of women’s empowerment, women’s leadership, lifelong learning, and education for adaptation and change and highlight how it can be deployed in educational contexts through two visual research methods, visual sociology and photovoice. These examples offer researchers, practitioners and policymakers insight into how WAPIC can elevate insights into recording inequalities, highlighting minority education groups’ voices, perspectives, and stories, emerging discussions, and reflexivity.

Mapping visual-based methods: an interdisciplinary approach

Images are central to our understanding of and learning about our world. We argue that visual training needs to be improved in the higher education system to enhance the potential of visual thinking to mediate productively our relationship with the context we inhabit. Initiatives from the social sciences and humanities since the end of the twenty century have highlighted the importance of training in visual research methods and visual literacy, but they also expose the scarcity of tools for understanding and applying images in research processes. In this paper, we examine the way visual methods were organised and employed in earlier studies and propose a new taxonomy. This classification will map these methods in an interdisciplinary framework that allows practitioners to use images in the development of projects. This proposal also seeks to inform future methodological approaches where images are recognised as a language of knowledge, analogous to numbers or linguistic expressions.

“Is it good or bad to do anal?”: Failures in queer joy and sexuality education

Where does queer joy fail in the sexuality education classroom? In this article, we work through the productive problematic of employing a queer and pleasure-centered approach to teaching sexuality education in New Brunswick, Canada. Engaging participatory visual research methods and queer joy alongside 60 sexuality education teachers in five separate art-making workshops and online interviews, we describe the conditions when teachers seemed unable to access the language of queer joy, like when they teach in a conservative space, encounter shame and sex negativity, or when they lack the resources and guidance to feel confident to teach sexuality education. We propose that queer joy is a worldmaking project in sexuality education classrooms—that is most often experienced in tandem with resistance—and offers a futurity queered toward something joyfully different, including when it fails.

VISUAL LANGUAGE DESIGN AS A NEW MEDIA FOR INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR STUDENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD)

The development of educational institutions in Indonesia and globally is currently facing the challenge of how to answer the needs of students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in receiving and understanding lecture materials, specifically designed in new media needs to be designed to facilitate and support the learning activities of ASD’s students and the goal of inclusive and sustainable education can be achieved. A visual research method was carried out with 4 stages of analysis, namely the image aspect, technical aspect, maker aspect and viewer aspect, then supported by statements from experts in designing the right visual language to convey the syllabus of the Digital Design Production (DDP) course. The result is that the right visual language will help students with ASD receive the message conveyed during the learning activities.

Picturing sexuality education in Thailand: a visual methods approach

ABSTRACT Visual research methods are increasingly utilised in educational research and scholars have used them to develop accounts of sexuality in schooling contexts. This article advances this work with an analysis of secondary students’ drawings of their experiences with sexuality education. We performed a thematic analysis on 150 drawings created during participatory focus group discussions (FGDs) among students in 30 Thai general secondary and vocational schools. We present summaries of six key themes identified in the visual data (‘emphasis on puberty, anatomy, and reproduction’; ‘emphasis on preventing pregnancy and infection’; ‘emphasis on the negative consequences of sex’; ‘hidden curriculum of heteronormativity’; ‘absence of complexities in the images’; and ‘a traditional classroom environment’). Conducted as a part of a multi-method study that also included teacher and student surveys, the analysis of students’ drawings highlighted the nature of Thai sexuality education from a complementary vantage point. While our previously reported survey findings indicated relatively comprehensive topic coverage, our interpretation of the student drawings suggests that pregnancy prevention may be emphasised over other topic areas. Our analysis of the drawings also supported earlier survey findings pointing at a lecture-heavy approach to teaching and learning rather than more learner-centred pedagogy.

Unveiling the Transformative Potential of AI-Generated Imagery in Enriching Mental Health Research

Visual methods in mental health research have been extensively explored and utilized following the expanse of art-therapy. The existing literature shows visual arts as a valuable research method with multi-fold benefits for both researchers and research participants. However, the way contemporary art is understood, conceptualized, and experienced has been challenged by the current digital advancements in our society. Despite heated debates whether AI may diminish the value of human creativity, AI-generated art is a complex reality that started to influence the way visual research is conducted. Within this context, researchers employing visual methods need to develop a deeper understanding of this topic. For this purpose, this article explores the concept of AI-generated images with a focus on benefits and limitations when applied to mental health research and potentially other areas of health and social care. As this is an emerging topic, more research on the effectiveness and therapeutic value of AI-generated images is required beyond the current anecdotical evidence, from the perspective of the researchers and research participants.

The urban aesthetics of graffiti murals: reproducing wall space in China’s urban renewal

In China, as in the West in recent decades to a lesser degree, the semantics of ‘graffiti’ have gradually become an alternative term for graffiti murals in urban renewal. Graffiti murals, through various renewal strategies, reproduce the wall spaces of old towns, factories and villages in Chinese urban areas, giving rise to diverse aesthetic attitudes. Taking Guangzhou, China, as a case study, this article utilizes graffiti mural images defined as ‘graffiti’ by people on social media as the basic material. Visual research methods such as photo evaluation and eye-tracking experiments are employed to analyse the aesthetic attitudes and mechanisms of mainstream street art, which in fact differ from traditional graffiti. The study reveals that people perceive different types of graffiti mural spaces in various ways, with a more positive aesthetic attitude towards urban mural landscapes that exhibit aesthetic coherence. Viewers with embodied practice experiences in ‘graffiti’ show stronger aesthetic emotions compared to those who have not visited the case study location. These differences are further influenced by the aesthetic atmosphere of the environment and the aesthetic practices of different subjects onsite, deviating slightly from the spatial aesthetic operational logic of traditional graffiti. From various perspectives on Chinese ‘graffiti’, the visual methodology constructed in this study provides new insights for the aesthetic management of urban renewal.

Putting plants in the picture

In this article we consider the use of visual images to assess perceptions of plants. Using data drawn from a Swedish study we review our choices regarding the type of image used, and the responses they provoked. Furthermore, we consider these choices in the light of other studies, propose a tentative model of levels of seeing, and call for further research. In sharing our methodological challenges with the research community, we wish to contribute to current discussions in plant awareness studies. More specifically, to the development of a visual prompt item that is not explicitly connected to knowledge. Thus, the main contribution of this article is to visual research methods in relation to plant awareness studies.

Creating and Reliving the Moment: Using Musical Improvisation and Care Aesthetics as a Lens of Connection and Self-Expression for Younger People Living with Dementia.

Musical improvisation is a generative process of spontaneously creating music 'in the moment'. For people with young onset dementia, musical improvisation provides an extended opportunity for creative self-expression and connection to one's own body and life story. Using visual research methods, including video elicitation interviews, this paper explores the 'in the moment' musical experiences of five people living with young onset dementia who took part in a 15-week improvised music-making programme (Music in Mind). We frame the exploration of the group's musical experiences through the emerging lens of 'care aesthetics'-a concept that identifies the sensory relations and embodied practices between two (or more) people in a caring relationship. In the context of this analysis, we look to the caring practices by, with, and between people living with dementia, their family members, and the musicians who lead the programme and the relationship of these practices to feelings of self-expression and meaningful connection. Musical improvisation has the potential to support the psychological, social, and spiritual wellbeing of people living with young onset dementia. In applying a lens of care aesthetics, it is possible to observe the micro-level experiences of people living with dementia and their family carers.

What do you meme? – Meme-Making as a research method

ABSTRACT Memes have emerged as a prevalent and influential aspect of contemporary culture and their use is a significant feature of social and relational communications. Yet scant research exists within Higher Education on the use of memes to assist in the research of reactions, emotions, and perceptions. The use of meme-making as a qualitative research tool is grounded in visual research methods. This paper explores a framework for using meme-making as a research tool within Higher Education and considers two case studies that demonstrate how meme-making can been used to capture and communicate the experiences of students. Through these case studies, meme-making was revealed to introduce an element of levity and humour whilst being versatile, flexible, and easily dovetailed to other qualitative approaches. Familiarity with the medium and construction process drew upon an instilled sense of ownership revealing the method to be accessible across a diverse participant base.

Young Children’s Photographs as a Visual Research Method in Early Childhood Classrooms

Young Children’s Photographs as a Visual Research Method in Early Childhood Classrooms

Development of almond flour bread recipe

The industry of bakery products that do not contain gluten has not been studied enough, so this topic is gaining popularity among scientists. The subject of the study was the development of a bread recipe using almond flour. Pumpkin puree and dried seaweed Laminaria ochroleuca were selected as additives. To improve the taste characteristics of the product, it was decided to add dietary fiber, which can add value to the finished product. The goal of the work was to develop a bread recipe using almond flour. The research was carried out in several stages: 1. development of a recipe and production of prototypes;2. analysis of organoleptic indicators; 3. carrying out physical and chemical studies (determination of humidity, acidity). To carry out the analysis, instrumental and visual research methods were used. During the experiment, five samples of bread were obtained, four of them with the addition of different concentrations of pumpkin and seaweed puree. The rate of dietary fiber was calculated based on the daily consumption rate. Sample No. 2, made with the addition of pumpkin puree in an amount of 100 g, had the best organoleptic properties. The bread had a pleasant taste and smell characteristic of the added raw materials, a soft and baked crumb, and the presence of pores. Samples of bread with added seaweed had a specific taste and smell, and traces of unkneading. The research results can be used in the baking industry to expand the range of bakery products. The developed bread can become a very useful product, especially for those categories of the population who are deficient in certain components. Also, given that for the majority of the population bread is a commodity of everyday demand, its preparation will be in great demand.

Family and community resilience: a Photovoice study

BackgroundAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs), in combination with adverse community environments, can result in traumatic stress reactions, increasing a person’s risk for chronic physical and mental health conditions. Family resilience refers to the ability of families to withstand and rebound from adversity; it involves coping with disruptions as well as positive growth in the face of sudden or challenging life events, trauma, or adversities. This study aimed to identify factors contributing to family and community resilience from the perspective of families who self-identified as having a history of adversity and being resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThis study used Photovoice, a visual participatory research method which asks participants to take photographs to illustrate their responses to a research question. Participants consisted of a maximum variation sample of families who demonstrated family level resilience in the context of the pair of ACEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Family members were asked to collect approximately five images or videos that illustrated the facilitators and barriers to well-being for their family in their community. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted using the SHOWeD framework to allow participants to share and elucidate the meaning of their photos. Using thematic analysis, two researchers then independently completed line-by-line coding of interview transcripts before collaborating to develop consensus regarding key themes and interpretations.ResultsNine families were enrolled in the study. We identified five main themes that enhanced family resilience: (1) social support networks; (2) factors fostering children's development; (3) access and connection to nature; (4) having a space of one’s own; and (5) access to social services and community resources.ConclusionsIn the context of additional stresses related to the COVID-19 pandemic, resilient behaviours and strategies for families were identified. The creation or development of networks of intra- and inter-community bonds; the promotion of accessible parenting, housing, and other social services; and the conservation and expansion of natural environments may support resilience and health.

Picturing broader socioeconomic conditions: introducing demographic data to participatory photo mapping in order to help youth understand community stratification

ABSTRACT Shaded polygons based on quantitative demographic indicators can represent place-based characteristics that influence perceptions of social phenomena. However, social scientists have struggled to integrate demographic methods with qualitative means of participatory research meaningfully. This is especially true in work with children, where concrete depictions of broader socioeconomic conditions can be challenging yet must be balanced with their research contributions. In working with this population, we encourage the introduction of demographic community indicators when integrating Photovoice (participant-generated imagery) and qualitative GIS methods. This integration simplifies an analytical challenge and allows youth to balance perspectives and quantify how social and economic features of place affect their perceptions of social phenomena. While the broader literature has focused on one-level designs to capture participant narratives and the overlapping of spatial data, integrating these concepts with youth researchers has not been addressed. As a methodological advancement in children’s research, we believe spatial participant-generated imagery (SPGI) improves upon participatory visual research methods by depicting how participant perceptions are situated in a community context. Through this research method, participants are empowered to triangulate their lived experiences with mixed-methods research. We illustrate this process through a case study of community belonging by youth.

Viewing life as a timeline: Digital visual research to retrace people's journeys

This research note introduces the experience of using ‘timelines’ as a visual research method during online interviewing. It does so through a series of questions and answers that guide the reader through an exploration, understanding of and reflection on the method. This qualitative approach was used while conducting research on the influence that participation in a Reality TV show had on its finalists, and on the opportunities and life choices that were afforded to participants after the end of the show. The reader is encouraged to draw links between their own work as a qualitative researcher and the possibilities that this method can offer either in filling gaps or in expanding their current endeavour. Ultimately, the ‘quality’ of the answers we find in our qualitative work is illustrative of the way we choose to ask our questions.

Visual Methods for Qualitative Research with Older Refugees: Reflection on Strengths and Drawbacks

Although older refugees have similar characteristics and vulnerabilities as other populations that have benefited from visual research methods, there is scarce evidence of these methods being used for qualitative social work studies with older refugees. In this article, we discuss the application of visual methods for social work research with older refugees for a better understanding of their experiences and challenges, highlighting how it can be evocative, improve discussions by reaching senses that ordinary interviews cannot grasp, avoid re-traumatisation during research, and build resilience and coping in older refugees. We propose that visual methods could address power dynamics that privilege researchers over participants like older refugees, thus empowering and ensuring older refugees control research processes. This can be crystallised by using visual methods in participatory research. We also outline the drawbacks and concerns of using these methods for research with this population. We conclude by presenting a discourse on how visual methods can advance social work knowledge for practice and social change.

Development of technological solutions to increase the biological value of gluten-free bread

The industry of gluten-free bakery products has not been studied properly, so this topic is gaining popularity among scientists. The subject of the research was the development of recipes for gluten-free flour mixtures. To improve the taste characteristics of the product and increase the biological value, it was decided to introduce plant raw materials non-traditional for bread. Chia seeds and carrot powder were chosen as additives. The goal of the research was to develop recipes for gluten-free flour mixtures. The research was carried out in several stages: 1. determination of the component composition of the gluten-free mixture recipe and production of prototypes; 2. analysis of organoleptic indicators; 3. carrying out physical and chemical studies of dough and finished products. To carry out the analysis instrumental and visual research methods were used. During the experiment three samples of bread were obtained from different types of gluten-free flour (No. 1 – green buckwheat; No. 2 amaranth flour; No. 3 – gram flour) in combination with rice flour, carrot powder and chia seeds. The control sample was bread made from rice flour, potato and corn starch. The rate of dietary fiber supplementation was calculated on the basis of the recommended daily intake. Thus, 2.8 g of dietary fiber was added with carrots, and 4.4 g of dietary fiber with chia seeds. According to all the studies carried out, sample No. 3 from gram flour turned out to be the best. The research results can be used in the baking industry to expand the range of bakery products. A mixture for making gluten-free bread can be a very useful product, especially for those categories of the population who have a need for such products. Also, given that for the majority of the population bread is a commodity of everyday demand, the production of such mixtures will be in great demand.

Exploring the Methodological Benefits and Challenges of Utilising a Photovoice Methodology With Individuals in Recovery From Problem Substance Use.

Photovoice is a type of visual research method which supports participants to reflect upon their experiences by capturing digital images. It is a methodology that is routinely used with groups that could be considered vulnerable, as a way of allowing participants to tell their stories for themselves. This article details the process of conducting a Photovoice study with individuals in recovery from problem substance use and reflects on the methodological benefits and challenges of utilising a visual research methodology with this population. Researchers wishing to conduct a Photovoice study with individuals in recovery should be mindful of striking a delicate balance between respecting an individual's autonomy and ensuring their wellbeing. Although ethically complex, Photovoice is an ideal method for research with this population as it allows participants to convey meaning and introduce narratives for themselves in an engaging way.

Research Protocol: A Transdisciplinary Multi-Case Study Research Design Using Mixed Methods to Evaluate the Long-Term Impact of Holocaust Museum Education in Australia

Holocaust museums around the world are distinctive in their emphasis on educational missions premised on the idea of “never again”, a deep belief that increasing public awareness of the history and contemporary significance of the Holocaust – the mass murder of six million European Jews by the Nazi regime during World War Two – can prevent the future recurrence of such events. In the Australian context, tens of thousands of school students visit Holocaust museums every year to participate in learning programs designed to impart powerful historical and moral lessons about the Holocaust, its antecedent conditions, and its ongoing relevance. The aspirations attached to these programs and the scale at which they are delivered stand in stark contrast to the lack of empirical evidence to support their efficacy. This research protocol describes an extensive four-year research study designed to evaluate the presumed linear relationship between Holocaust education programs and ethical, moral, and affective learning that leads to durable attitudinal and behavioural change. Funded through the Australian Research Council’s Linkage Projects scheme, the study will assess the impact of Holocaust museums’ education programs on high school students from diverse demographics, including the extent to which participation influences the views and actions of young people in relation to racial and identity-based discrimination. The research design is longitudinal and transdisciplinary, integrating qualitative, quantitative, and participatory techniques across three case studies. By strategically employing rapid ethnographic assessment procedures, archival research, analysis of museum representational practices, surveys, and visual research methods, we will examine both the educational intent behind Holocaust education programs and their actual impacts on a large sample of Australian Year 10 students. We expect the results of the research to be used by our project partners to develop Holocaust education programs that effectively engage students on cognitive and affective levels.