Stories We Make: Integrating Speculative Fiction Into Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR)

• In Event: Youth Participatory Action Research: Community of Practice, Catalyst for Resistance, Podcasting, Speculative Fiction, and Ownership

Abstract

This study examines the integration of speculative fiction and Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) to foster civic literacies among youth. Utilizing an alternate-reality game set in a dystopian future where digital platforms are banned, students are guided by a fictional character to explore, question, and resist oppressive societal structures. The analysis of artifacts developed by educators during the design of the game illustrate how educators can leverage speculative storytelling to mirror the world in ways that center collective re-imaginations of the future to overcome hegemonic structures.The study provides guidelines for educators willing to incorporate speculative fiction into YPAR spaces and underscores the intergenerational nature of YPAR within speculative scenarios.

Authors

• Ezequiel Aleman, Universidad Tecnológica del Uruguay

• Ricardo Martinez, Pennsylvania State University