Capturing Postsecondary Education Access for Rural Black Students Through Participant-Generated Photographs

• In Event: Rural Students and College Access

Abstract

In this study, we employ a narrative design and visual methods to examine the resources, networks, and assets that support pathways to postsecondary education for 22 rural Black high school students. We collected data via participant-generated photographs and one semi-structured interview with each participant. Findings indicate that there are several resources, networks, and assets that support pathways to postsecondary education for rural Black students, including their families, school networks, and aspirations. In addition, student participants discuss how the arts and their faith and religious networks supported their pathways to postsecondary education. The findings have implications for practice and future research.

Authors

• Darris Roshawn Means, University of Pittsburgh

• Ashley Brown, University of Georgia

• Jayme Briana Hayes, University of Georgia

• Jenay Willis, University of Pittsburgh