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 ֱ Boulder 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 explored issues of access, equity, and diversity on the ֱ-Boulder campus. This research is now informing ֱ Engage's strategic planning and inclusive practices. Drawing on the principles and practices of participatory action research (PAR), our team a) documented community engagement perspectives and activities among students from under-represented groups; b) identified factors that serve either as barriers or invitations to greater involvement; and c) proposed strategies for ֱ Engage to implement in its first three years. You can read an article about our participatory research project, or download and read our report: "Students of Color Are Motivated Agents of Change: So Why Aren't We Joining Your Programs?" ֱ Engage is committed to undertaking other PAR projects with undergraduate students in the future. If you’d like to get involved with PAR and/or propose a project, please email cuengage@colorado.edu.