Ethical Dilemmas of Youth Participatory Action Research in a Democratic School

• In Event: The Challenges and Possibilities of Including Students in School Leadership

Abstract

This paper explores the ethical implications of a student seeking to change the school’s dress code policy. The middle school student in this case study witnessed minor dress code violations that concerned her, because the existing dress code was not really a code at all—it was a broad statement of philosophy—so how could it be violated? (In her opinion) With the help and guidance of the teacher, this student set out to collect data from the small student body (~80 students) and conduct interviews, not only with students, but also with a similar magnet school in a neighboring state. Upon collection of data and her thematic analysis, she made a presentation (at the urging of teacher) to the democratic body which governs school issues (comprised of students, staff, and parents). The issues of what kind of dress code is appropriate is now under consideration by that body and is the topic of conversation among students and staff. Scaffolded within the context of Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), this paper explores the implications of encouraging students to question the system, and especially instances of race, class, gender and identity issues.

Authors

• Dana L. Mitra, The Pennsylvania State University

• Paul R. McCormick, University of Pennsylvania