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Jacquie Fraser, PhD, Department of Health Sciences, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 11935 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31419-1997, 912 921-7315, fraserja@mail.armstrong.edu and Meg Walworth, PhD, Early Childhood Education Department, Armstrong Atlantic State University, 11935 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31419-1997.
The purpose of this project was to explore the process of Photovoice to examine community health issues. This technique allows for the provision of cameras and skills training to residents of a community so they can use these tools to identify targeted issues through visual images. These visual images can then ‘speak' for people who, for a variety of reasons including literacy needs, may have been limited in their communication with other community members and policymakers. The photos are subsequently used to stimulate change through connecting local community members with policymakers. The researchers worked with the Housing Authority of Savannah, Georgia (HAS) to conduct a pilot study exploring the use of this research tool with illiterate/semi-literate adults who are often more comfortable using visual literacy skills than verbal skills to express themselves. The lack of literacy skills often leaves this population disenfranchised and voiceless in society. Ten adults from HAS participated in the project. Each participant was given a digital camera to use along with intensive training in Photovoice and use of the camera. Participants also completed a literacy self-esteem questionnaire. They then spent four weeks examining their environment and taking photographs that they felt best represented health needs in their community. Participants were ultimately given the opportunity to talk or write about their entries with the researchers, fellow participants, community members and policymakers. Selected photographs were displayed at a local meeting area during a showing to which policymakers were invited. Participants were available to discuss issues with the policymakers.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, the participant will be able to
Keywords: Needs Assessment, Literacy
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.