Is This Supposed to Be Therapeutic? Postgraduate Students Meaning-Making Through PhotoVoice Research

• In Event: Care, Emotion, and Reflexivity in Qualitative Research

Abstract

Since the UN Paramaribo Declaration in 2010, the Caribbean region has seen an increase in adult learners in higher education, however, there has been limited research on the complexities of their higher education experiences. Epistemologies grounded within their own cultural contexts are therefore needed to understand the particular experiences of these adult learners. This study explores the experiences of adult learners pursuing postgraduate studies at a higher education institution in Jamaica utilising a participatory photovoice methodology, offering participants an emancipatory experience to centre themselves within the body of the research. Preliminary data suggest that the methodology offers adult learners a therapeutic outlet as they navigate what can be lonely, challenging, and stressful experiences.

Authors

• Therese Ferguson, The University of the West Indies - Mona Campus

• Carmel Geneva Roofe, 'The University of the West Indies - Mona Campus

• Saran Stewart, University of Connecticut

• Shenhaye Ferguson

• Neveta Roberts

• Shereca Hunter

• Shanari Fearon

• Heada Nichalls

• Whadeeda Irving

• Jovaughn Neil

• Karona Myers

• Tante Salmon

• Georgette Delavante